In the coming weeks, Duke Energy, in partnership with the City of Kokomo, will begin upgrading approximately 2,623 city streetlights to LEDs. This project focuses on “cobra head” lights, which are the standard roadway lights found on thoroughfares and in traditional neighborhoods. The goal is to improve lighting conditions, which have been shown to lower certain types of crime and reduce vehicle crashes. LED lights are also more reliable, resulting in fewer maintenance calls. Due to this improved reliability and reduced energy usage, the city will save $135,000 annually.
The new LED streetlights will emit a noticeably clearer, brighter light compared to the existing high-pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights, which produce a dim, amber-orange hue. LED lights have a much longer lifespan, are safer for traffic, and have lower maintenance costs than HPS lights.
“We welcome this partnership with Duke Energy that will save our city money and provide better lighting on our streets,” said Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore. “This change will benefit the entire community.”
The lighting upgrade aims to improve lighting consistency in neighborhoods and thoroughfares. The brightness of the new lighting is expected to be similar to the existing lighting. The upgrades may require temporary lane closures, so please drive safely near contractors conducting these improvements. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Kokomo Engineering Department at 765-456-7400.
For more information about Duke Energy’s smart lighting solutions, visit duke-energy.com/home/products/outdoor-lighting.