The "LED City" initiative is designed to create a "living laboratory" that will evaluate the use of LED lighting and build a business case that will eventually enable Raleigh to deliver the economic, environmental and usage benefits of LED lighting to its residents.
Over the next 18 months, Raleigh plans to deploy LED lighting to serve a number of lighting applications, including garage and parking lot lights, street lights, architectural and accent lighting, portable lighting and pedestrian and walkway lighting. Cree expects that multiple LED lighting manufacturers will be eager to participate in the initiative.
Progress Energy, Raleigh’s primary electric utility provider, says the floor equipped with LED lights uses over 40 percent less energy than the standard lighting system. Plus, according to Progress Energy’s research, the quality of light in the garage is greatly improved.
Both Cree and Raleigh public officials expect the initiative to serve as a model for other cities that are considering implementing energy-efficient infrastructures.
"Today's announcement represents a milestone toward large-scale adoption of clean, energy-efficient technologies," commented Kateri Callahan, president of the Washington, DC-based Alliance to Save Energy (ASE). "Raleigh's progressive commitment to becoming the first 'LED City' will no doubt serve as a model for other cities seeking to improve energy consumption and reduce negative impacts on the environment."
