Leeds completes £22.5 million LED street lighting upgrade

Leeds City Council has announced the successful completion of its LED street lighting project, aimed at enhancing the city's energy efficiency. 

Work began in December 2018, with the extensive initiative having seen over 89,000 streetlights across Leeds upgraded to LED technology, in collaboration with Enerveo, subcontracted by Tay Valley Lighting.

The project, completed with the final installation at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds last week, is set to achieve substantial financial and environmental benefits. It is anticipated to save £3.4 million annually in electricity costs at present rates and reduce street lighting energy consumption by around 62%. This translates to a decrease of 7,050 tonnes in carbon emissions annually, with benefits already materialising during the lamp replacement phase.

The switch to LED not only promises longer durability and better recyclability of lanterns but also aims to reduce emissions linked to maintenance operations. A public consultation held between November 2017 and January 2018 reflected broad public support, with over 80% of respondents backing the shift to LED lighting.

Councillor Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure, attended the installation of the final LED light on Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds this week, marking the conclusion of the project. 

Councillor Hayden noted, “The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Leeds. This investment will deliver immediate cost savings and lay the groundwork for future advancements in smart technology”

Tom Cunningham, Tay Valley Lighting (Leeds) Director, added, “We have been delighted to support Leeds City Council investment on the LED lantern works, the investment has provided many benefits, local employment opportunities during the period, reducing energy consumption and maintenance activities resulting in significant cost savings to Leeds City Council and carbon reduction impact from the project”.