The goal of this plan is to convert public lighting to high efficiency lighting. This includes conversion of traffic signals to light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In the past few years, the city started replacing traffic signal incandescent lamps with LED lamps, resulting in significant energy savings. Although LED lamps cost more upfront than the bulbs they replace, they use less energy and last longer than conventional bulbs. Other advantages of LED’s is that they produce directional light, a whiter type of light and contain no hazardous materials.
Phoenix has received funding for efficient lighting from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Department of Energy recently awarded the city $15.2 million, which includes $2.5 million for conversion of traffic signals to LED technology.