Why Cities are Switching to LED Street Lighting: An In-Depth Look

As cities around the world continue to evolve and modernize, upgrading the lighting system has become a priority for urban planners. In recent years, the LED street lighting system has garnered significant attention, and many cities are switching to it. This article provides an in-depth look at how LED street lighting works and why it is becoming increasingly popular for cities around the world.

What is LED street lighting?

LEDs or light-emitting diodes are energy-efficient lighting sources that emit light when an electric current is passed through them. LED street lights use this technology to produce light and are designed to replace traditional street lights that were typically sodium or mercury-vapor-based.

Why are cities switching to LED street lighting?

LED street lighting has numerous advantages over traditional street lighting sources. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Energy Efficiency: LED street lights consume only a fraction of the energy used by traditional street lighting sources, meaning that they can save cities significant energy costs in the long run.

2. Cost-Effective: Although the initial cost of installation may be higher than traditional lighting methods, the long-term savings make LED a more cost-effective option.

3. Longevity: LED street lights last significantly longer than traditional lighting sources, which means less maintenance and replacement costs for cities.

4. Better Quality Lighting: LED street lights provide bright, clear light which enhances visibility and improves safety for road users.

5. Environmental Benefits: LED lights are environmentally friendly, and they emit no harmful chemicals or pollutants into the air.

LED Light Color Temperature

The color temperature of LED street lights is an important consideration. This is the measurement of how warm or cool a light source is in appearance. It is measured in Kelvin (K). LED street lights are available in a range of color temperatures, typically between 2700K and 6500K.

The color temperature of LED street lights is important for three reasons:

1. Perception of Safety - Light with a higher color temperature such as 5000K-6500K can give a perception of higher visibility, making urban areas feel "safer."

2. Circadian Rhythm - Light at the wrong color temperature can also be a circadian disruptor, as human's natural sleep cycle is disrupted by blue light. Installing too bright of light (greater than 4000K) has been shown to interfere with circadian rhythms and cause sleep disruption.

3. Dispersal of Light - Very high color temperature (greater than 6000K) is so bright, it can cause a harsh glare, reducing visibility and creating discomfort for pedestrians and drivers.

LED street lights, typically have a range of 3500K-5000K.

Conclusion

Choosing LED Street lighting is a way for city managers to increase the efficiency and cost effectiveness of their street lights while minimizing harm to the environment. Indeed, it is a wise investment for the long-term financial gain, environmental impact and enhanced visibility and safety in urban areas. While issues of color temperature and light glare need to be considered and addressed, the cost/benefit it delivers remains a priority for urban planners.