Better streets and spaces

Let there be light: LEDs illuminate the city

The City of Sydney will become the first council in NSW to replace all street lights with energy-efficient LEDs.

Sustainable lighting Martin Place (1)

The City of Sydney has replaced more than 6,500 street lights with LEDs since 2009, saving $800,000 per year and reducing emissions by 2,400 tonnes.

AusGrid crews have begun switching over the remaining 9,600 streetlights. This will reduce carbon emissions by 3,500 tonnes each year – roughly 9% of the local area’s carbon footprint.

LED streetlights are powered by a mere 17 watts of electricity while older streetlights use 95 watts. They also need less maintenance and can last up to 20 years.

Embedded content: https://youtu.be/qOQx-P4aUf4

The City of Sydney has long-term targets to reduce carbon emissions by 70% by 2030 (based on 2006 levels) and for net zero emissions by 2050.

We’ve also contributed $750,000 towards an AusGrid grant program that will reduce demand for electricity and lead to fewer carbon emissions.

If you’re in the area, you’ll spot AusGrid crews replacing the streetlights from this week.

Published 14 December 2018, updated 19 October 2023