The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Grand Bahama Power Company will undertake a major replacement of more than 9,000 streetlights and night guards throughout Grand Bahama, according to a company spokesman.

The plan is to replace high pressure sodium lamps (HPS) with LED energy-efficient lights over the next 12 months.

Cleopatra Russell, assistant to the managing director of communications, said in a statement the company’s move is designed to decrease the amount of energy consumed by street lighting on the island.

“The company is in the early stages of the project with initial preparation starting November 2015 and the actual change out to LED bulbs is scheduled to begin in 2016,” the statement said.

“This move toward the installation of LED lights is in keeping with GBPC’s plan for improving energy efficiency along with reducing both carbon emissions and fossil fuel usage. LED lights are more environmentally friendly, consume less electricity, require less maintenance and last longer than the HPS lamps that are currently being used.”

To prepare for the installation of the LED lights, GBPC will be carrying out fieldwork during November and December which may result in the removal of some lights.

The company has been heavily criticised by civic group Coalition of Concerned Citizens over the high cost of power and for not implementing more alternative energy, including solar and other alternative renewable energy sources.