Citation

McClung D. IMSA J. 2008; 46(3): 32-35.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, International Municipal Signal Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Now is a good time for states, counties, and cities to switch from incandescent traffic signal lights to the new, power-saving light emitting diode (LED) models, according to this article. While LEDs have been available since the 1990s for traffic signals, they have come down in price. In addition, new federal requirements make it necessary that all traffic signal modules and pedestrian modules manufactured after January 1, 2006 meet more stringent energy performance requirements. With the cost of energy increasing, the author suggests that it is economically feasible to pay higher prices for LEDs because incandescent lights will cost more in the long run due to energy usage. The author notes that more savings are generated because LED traffic signals last five to seven years compared to only two or three for the older bulbs, which also cuts maintenance costs.