City of Valdez, Alaska

Small Town’s Large LED Conversion Yields High Savings
Valdez, Alaska Takes Steps to Increase Energy Savings

Located in Alaska’s scenic Prince William Sound, the City of Valdez, population around 4,350, is making a big investment towards energy efficiency while greatly improving the quality of light for residents. By switching all of its current high-pressure sodium fixtures to LEDway streetlights, the city has already gained close to 50 percent in energy savings alone.

While city officials like the energy savings, the city’s snow removal staff – who on average remove 30 feet of snow in a given winter – have remarked about the visibility enhancement. “During the winter in Alaska it is important for our snow removal professionals to see clearly. LEDway’s cleaner light provides a better reflection off the white snow so workers can get their job done safely and accurately. High-pressure sodium just doesn’t offer that kind of visibility,” stated Laura Robertson, Planning/GIS Technician for the City of Valdez.

With installation completion slated for 2012, the city is able to fund the large switch to LEDway through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant. The grant has allowed Valdez to progressively invest in shaping how Alaska can improve its environmentally significant surroundings.

“In the winter when we obtain power using diesel fuel, Valdez is able to off set the very expensive cost utilizing LED street lights,” said Robertson. “What our residents have really noticed is the energy savings the city has been able to reap – not to mention the increased visibility of stars in the night sky,” she continued.

Initial energy savings, improved quality of work conditions and commitment to conservation have all helped this small community stand out as one that takes a large stance on the importance of environmental sustainability.