Conversion of streetlights to light-emitting diode (LED) type

Abstract For the rising need for energy conservation and improving outdoor experience, the current streetlights require an upgrade to light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. LEDs are well-known for their better operating hours, brighter color temperature, and reduced energy consumption. As per the US Energy Information Administration, lighting accounts for 17% of energy consumption for commercial buildings as reported by U. S. Energy Information Adminstration (2024). In this paper, a methodology was presented to overcome the challenges of LED transformation. As a sample case based on the existing profile of high-pressure sodium (HPS), incandescent (INC), fluorescent (FL), metal halide (MH), and mercury vapor (MV) in the District of Columbia, energy conservation from the conversion of HPS to LED type was presented. A total energy savings and GHG reduction from this conversion gave a positive outcome of large-scale replacements with LED. LED drivers are capable of withstanding stresses that streetlights are exposed to. However, additional considerations from a lighting equipment specifier to select drivers with more robust capacitors withstanding high heat and frequencies are required. A simple evaluation of HPS vs LED showed higher performance at lower-rated LED wattage luminaires.