Citation

Suozzo M. IMSA J. 2000; 38(2): 54-56.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, International Municipal Signal Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

Light-emitting diode (LED) traffic signals consume 80-90% less energy than traffic signals using incandescent lamps. In addition, LEDs last 5-10 years while incandescent bulbs need to be replaced at least once/year and wear out unpredictably. The longer life of LEDs can reduce the frequency of traffic signal maintenance, thereby decreasing the cost to the area being served. Although the initial cost for an LED signal is higher than a comparable incandescent traffic signal, LEDs pay for themselves in roughly 3 years and save an enormous amount of money in the long run. This article explains basic elements of how LEDs work and describes an initiative by the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) to promote increased use of LED traffic signals.