LED-ing the Way: Leeds £22.5m LED lighting scheme completed

Leeds City Council today announces the completion of its LED lighting scheme, an extensive project aimed at improving energy efficiency in street lighting throughout the city. Initiated in December 2018, the programme has successfully converted over 89,000 streetlights to new LED lamps, in partnership with street lighting partner Enerveo (subcontractor to Tay Valley Lighting).

The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme is expected to bring significant annual savings of £3.4 million in electricity costs at current energy prices. Additionally, the conversion to LED lighting is projected to reduce street lighting energy consumption by approximately 62%, resulting in 7,050 tonnes of carbon savings, with savings already being made throughout the lamp replacement.

The new LED lanterns offer increased durability and recyclability, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions from maintenance visits. Public consultation, conducted from November 2017 to January 2018, showed strong support for the upgrade, with over 80% of respondents endorsing the initiative.

Councillor Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure, attended the installation of the final LED light on Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds this week, marking the conclusion of the project. Councillor Hayden said:

“The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Leeds. This investment will deliver immediate cost savings and lay the groundwork for future advancements in smart technology”

Tom Cunningham, Tay Valley Lighting (Leeds) Director, said:

“We have been delighted to support Leeds City Council investment on the LED lantern works, the investment has provided many benefits, local employment opportunities during the period, reducing energy consumption and maintenance activities resulting in significant cost savings to Leeds City Council and carbon reduction impact from the project”.

As Leeds continues its commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation, the completion of the LED Lighting Scheme underscores the council's dedication to building a more sustainable future for the city and its residents.