First Selectman Mike Tetreau announced that starting today, Wednesday, October 24, 2018, United Illuminating (UI) will begin its conversion of streetlights to highly efficient LED technology in the Town of Fairfield.

UI is replacing the existing high-pressure sodium streetlights — at no cost to the Town — to provide a more energy-efficient, cost-effective product. The Town will conserve energy and save an estimated $234,000 a year in electrical costs as a result of UI’s conversion of the existing high-pressure sodium streetlights to high-efficient LED (light-emitting diode) fixtures.

UI’s contractor that is performing the work will have two dedicated crews in Town to start and then, beginning next week, they will have three crews in Town until the conversion is completed. The expected completion date is early January 2019.

First Selectman Mike Tetreau signed a UI streetlight conversion contract on August 3, 2018. The contract calls for UI to retrofit the Town’s existing “cobra-head” streetlight fixtures and replace the existing high-pressure sodium lights with high-efficiency LED lights that provide a crisp, high-quality light.

In addition to improved efficiency, the LED streetlights last approximately 2.5 times longer than their high-pressure sodium equivalents. That means fewer “burned-out” streetlights and reduced need for maintenance.

First Selectman Tetreau stated, “Not only will this conversion help the Town reduce its energy costs, but it will also keep our streets safely illuminated and in an environmentally friendly and healthy way. I would like to particular thank Ed Boman, Fairfield’s Department of Public Works Assistant Director, for helping our Town achieve this significant savings.”

If any resident or business owner in the Town of Fairfield has questions or concerns, please call UI Customer Service at 1-800-722-5584.

The photo shows First Selectman Tetreau sitting next to Ed Boman who is displaying one of the many awards the Town has received over the years for its environmental stewardship and commitment to clean and efficient energy.