Five-year program will bring higher quality, longer-lasting lights throughout its territory
As part of its ongoing efforts to offer more value to its customers, Tampa Electric will upgrade approximately 210,000 street lights and area lights across West Central Florida with energy-efficient, Light-Emitting Diode (LED) technology that uses less energy, produces less carbon emissions and is better for the environment. The upgrades will take place over the next five years.
LED technology provides higher quality light and lasts longer than traditional high-pressure sodium and metal halide street lights. The light cast from an LED is similar to daylight and provides the most natural color accuracy of any outdoor lamp. Residential areas will receive LEDs that provide a softer white light.
The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) unanimously approved the new program today. Tampa Electric's five-year program will begin in early 2018.
"Just like computers, cell phones and solar panels, LED technology has evolved over the years," said Art Bosshart, Manager of Outdoor Lighting for Tampa Electric. "Today's high-quality LEDs deliver more value to our customers by offering superior lighting performance that lasts longer and use less energy to illuminate."
Beginning in late 2018, each new LED will be equipped with an advanced photocell – making it a "smart LED" – resulting in more benefits to all Tampa Electric customers. For example, if a street light goes out today, Tampa Electric is not aware until it is reported by a customer. With smart LED lights, the light will notify Tampa Electric when it's out for a much quicker repair.
LED lighting technology will deliver many benefits to customers, all while saving energy, producing less carbon emissions and improving service.
Tampa Electric and certified lighting contractor crews will systematically upgrade each light across the company's service area. Additionally, any malfunctioning lights will be upgraded to LED technology. To learn more and view an installation map, visit tampaelectric.com/newLEDs.
Tampa Electric has been offering outdoor lighting solutions for home, business and government for more than 100 years. The company's Bright Choices outdoor lighting program offers a variety of premium, energy-efficient LEDs and companion poles. To learn more about Tampa Electric's complete turn-key lighting program, visit tampaelectric.com/brightchoices.
Tampa Electric, one of Florida's largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 750,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
