Energy efficient lighting rolling out

Alpine Shire Council’s Energy Efficient Lighting Upgrade Project will see around 1333 inefficient streetlights replaced with LED luminaires.

Alpine Shire Mayor Sarah Nicholas said the project supports the outcomes set out in Council’s Climate Action Plan.

“It’s an essential step towards our commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Council corporate operations to net zero by July 2023,” she said.

“Council declared a Climate Emergency in November 2021 in recognition of the vital role that we and our community must play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.

“As part of our Climate Action Plan, we are actively looking at ways to reduce our electricity use. 

“This will bring benefits such as lower costs and frees up renewable electricity for other users.

“We want to leave our world to our children and grandchildren knowing that it has a sustainable and thriving future.”

Council adopted its Climate Action Plan in September 2021, highlighting the importance of leading the community in making climate-positive choices.

Cr Nicholas said LED lighting install began across the Shire last week and will run for the next 5 - 6 months.

“The new LED luminaires are up to 82% more energy efficient and will increase lighting quality, with more light being directed toward the ground where it is needed, reducing light pollution into the night sky,” she said.

“The lighting will save enough to pay itself off in 4-6 years - each year afterwards is a net positive for Council and, by extension, the community.

“This project will also be supported through rebates from a number of organisations, including AusNet and Department of Transport, once installation is complete.”

Residents may experience some changes to traffic conditions during the installation process.

The changeover of street lights involves a single elevated work platform with two to three crew members. 

It takes less than five minutes to replace a street light, so any disruptions to traffic flow should not last long. 

All cars can remain parked on the streets. Works are expected to take place on weekdays between 6am – 6pm.

The old lights will be recycled.

The project is anticipated for completion by March 2023.