10,000 streetlights replaced with eco LEDs in Essex

Essex County Council is moving at the speed of light to upgrade 82,000 old-style streetlights, mainly in residential roads, with LED (‘light-emitting diode’) streetlight technology, over three years.

The ambitious programme began in May, starting with Chelmsford and Basildon, with LEDs being installed district by district until completion in 2024. On average, Essex Highways crews are now upgrading 1,000 lights a week and by the end of September 10,000 streetlights had already been replaced.

Councillor Lee Scott, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport, said:

“I am thrilled with the progress that has been made with the LED rollout. I would like to thank the crews for all their hard work that has meant we are currently ahead of schedule for the installation.

“LED lights bring many benefits for both residents and the environment as they save on average around 60% energy usage and thousands of tons of carbon emissions involved in generating electricity. The replacement will also mean a better service and more effective use of taxpayer’s money, as after 25 years it is estimated the net savings for ECC will be around £39 million.”

For more information about Essex’s LED replacement programme visit: https://www.essexhighways.org/roads-and-pavements/street-lighting/replacement-by-leds-programme.