Chapel Hill has built a reputation as a leader in sustainability initiatives on social, environmental and economic issues, Mayor Kevin Foy said. Partnering with Duke Energy Carolinas on this project aligns well with our strong focus on sustainability.
LED technology produces a white light that enhances the color spectrum. It has been used in traffic signals, accent lighting, outdoor signs and retail refrigeration equipment. For electric utilities, LED technology has potential as an energy-efficient option for outdoor street and security lighting.
We are very pleased to partner with the town of Chapel Hill in this effort to evaluate the potential for future applications of LED technology across our system, said Joni Davis, vice president of local government and community relations for Duke Energy Carolinas. LED technology may hold future potential for reducing both energy consumption and equipment maintenance costs without compromising safety or customer satisfaction.
Foy said the program fits into efforts to pilot new technologies that will assist with Chapel Hill’s ambitious carbon reduction goals. In 2006, the town of Chapel Hill has become the first US municipality to commit to a 60% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2050 through the Carbon Reduction Program. The council authorized the pledge to reduce CO2 emissions from town municipal operations on a per capita basis, beginning with an initial goal of 5% reduction by 2010.
Through this 12-month pilot, we expect to develop data on operating cost, light-level readings, energy consumption and other related information, said Davis. Duke Energy Carolinas does not currently offer LED lighting, but this pilot will go a long way in helping us determine the feasibility of providing this option to our customers.
