LED Lighting Program FAQ « LCEC – Lee County Electric Cooperative

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LED Lighting Program FAQ

Why is LCEC implementing an LED lighting program?

LED lights provide a perceived better quality of lighting, improving people’s ability to see details while walking and driving. They are also expected to last longer than the traditional High Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights.

Until recently, LED fixtures were very costly, resulting in a higher lighting rate than HPS lighting. However, in the past year, the price of LED fixtures has declined to a level that makes them competitive and allows LCEC to offer them to customers.

What will the impact be on prices?

Although the energy cost for the LED light is lower, the fixture itself is more expensive. Whereas HPS lights can be repaired by simply replacing an inexpensive bulb, LEDs require replacing the entire fixture. But even though maintenance may be more costly, customer pricing remains affordable.

Will all lights be changed to LED lights?

Not at this time. The program will begin by replacing the 100 watt High Pressure Sodium (HPS) Cobra Head fixtures with 55 watt LED fixtures. The program to replace roadway lights that are typically funded by governmental agencies began April 1, 2016. The program was expanded to include commercial area lighting beginning June 1, 2016. Lights will be changed out according to the following criteria and priorities:

Repair and maintenance of defective lights
New light request
Request to change out existing lights

LCEC determined a phased approach is the most efficient way to implement this program. We will no longer be carrying 100 watt HPS Cobra Head fixtures in our inventory. If a 100 watt HPS fixture fails, it will be replaced with a new LED fixture.

Can a private security light be changed to an LED light?

Currently, this option is not available, but it may be in the future.

Will all HPS lights be changed to LED lights?

Currently, the program only applies to 100 watt HPS Cobra Head light fixtures, which are the most common. LCEC will continue to evaluate the possibility of changing out other wattages when they become economically viable.

Does LED lighting help to reduce light pollution?

Studies are not conclusive about the effects of LED lights on light pollution, but it is certain that the use of LED lights results in improved energy conservation and reduced carbon emissions.

Do LED lights reduce the potential for malfunctioning lights (blinking or remaining on)?

It is anticipated that these types of functional issues will occur less often. Malfunctioning lights are often the result of a failed photocell. LED lights use premium photocells that are expected to last four times longer than the current photocell used in HPS lights.

Some malfunctions are due to power surges or from protective devices on the electric system. The frequency of blinking should be less because LED chip failures are less likely than bulb failures and LED lights have better surge protection.

To find out more about the program:

Contact our Customer Care Center Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 239-656-2300. You can also email us by clicking here.