Norwich Public Utilities to install LED streetlights starting Monday.
Norwich — Crews hired by Norwich Public Utilities will begin replacing the bulbs in all public and private streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs Monday, with all 4,984 of them expected to be installed by early October.
NPU is footing the $1.8 million cost, which will not impact electric ratepayers, and the annual savings to the city is estimated at $100,000. Exact savings calculations will be made when new streetlight rates are set upon completion, NPU officials said.
“This project will provide a number of benefits for our community in the years to come,” NPU General Manager John Bilda said in a news release announcing the work. “Modernizing our streetlight network is the right thing to do in terms of public safety, financial responsibility and helping the environment.”
Work by Tanko Lighting and subcontractor Red Thread will begin in northern areas of the city Monday, including Plain Hill Road, White Plains Road, Lawlor Lane and in the Baltic Road section of the city. Tanko will have up to seven crews per day, typically working between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
NPU spokesman Chris Riley said no road closures or extended lane closures are expected during the work, as the crews will progress quickly along each street.
All streetlights along roads and in city and school parking lots will be included. Historic replica gas lights downtown and in Greeneville will receive new LED bulbs, as well, Riley said.
NPU has a seven-year financing agreement with GE Government Finance to pay for the project, Riley said.
“Old lights typically lasted about five years,” Riley said. “New LEDs are good for about 10 years, which saves significantly on maintenance.”
LED — Light Emitting Diode — streetlights also will provide better visibility, increasing public safety, Riley said.
As the project progresses, NPU will provide updates on the installation schedule on its website, bit.ly/NPUtilities, and on social media.
Tanko Lighting has completed a number of LED streetlight projects in Connecticut and the region, including Jewett City, Groton, East Lyme and New London.