GEA adopts energy efficient street lighting in Timehri …Residents satisfied with change
At the cost of $2.1M, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) installed energy efficient streetlights along the Timehri Highway, with the hope of better understanding different energy efficient street lighting technologies.
A. Khan, Manager of Khan’s Sawmill
The exercise saw GEA replacing 37 high pressure sodium vapour (HPSV) street lamps with energy efficient induction lamps between Bounty Farm and the Timehri Police Outpost. The replaced lamps rated at 250 watts each while the new lamps are rated much lower at 120 watts each, resulting in lower energy consumption. The new lamps also come equipped with a timer control relay to switch the lamps off during the day.
According to Timehri resident, Aktar Shaw, “These lamps [induction street lamps] are better than the red ones [HPSV lamps]. I feel safert with this one; I no longer worry about my vehicle which I park on the bridge. The red ones were not as effective.”
Angelina Richmond, a Timehri resident
Another resident, Angelina Richmond, said that “the energy saving lights are far better. It allows you to see better and you feel safert, especially when going to church and returning home at nights. The brightness allows the children to play in the yard on weekends after the sun goes down.”
Nalini Sukhal, a vendor who works along the Timehri Highway
Nalini Sukhal, a vendor operating along the highway, expressed thanks for the new lights. “I come out at 3PM and sell up to 7PM so it gives me a sense of security. This one is much brighter than the red one. It is very good for my business.”
Mr. A. Khan, the manager of Khan’s Sawmill, expressed similar sentiments. “These white lights are far better than the previous ones which were red. I feel far more secure with this one.”
Implemented at a total cost of G$2,102,064, the energy efficient lights will pay for themselves in about 1.09 years. Through the use of Induction street lamps, and the use of light emitting diode (LED) lamps, it is possible to significantly reduce costs associated with the provision of street lighting. The information obtained from data gathering and experience gained from the installation process will be used to guide decisions with regards to street lighting. GEA will use the data gathered to compare the Induction Street Lamps with the Led Street Lights to determine which of the two technologies is better suited for use in Guyana.