Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has realised significant cost savings of over Rs 6 crore annually through its strategic transition from high-pressure sodium (HPSV) lights to energy-efficient LED street lighting. This initiative, which forms part of the civic body’s broader sustainability and cost-reduction efforts, has already seen the installation of LED lights in more than 50% of the areas under its jurisdiction.
Since embarking on this transformation in 2022, KMC has replaced both high-pressure sodium vapour lamps and metal halide fittings with LED technology. This shift not only aims to lower carbon emissions but also drastically reduces electricity consumption. The civic body reports that its annual electricity expenditure has plummeted from Rs 14 crore to Rs 8 crore, with expectations of further reduction to Rs 4-5 crore upon the project’s completion by 2027. The upgrade involves outfitting over 300,000 lights across all 144 wards of Kolkata. The LED installation covers high-traffic areas such as Tollygunge, Jadavpur, Behala Paschim, and Behala Purba, with plans to convert the remaining sodium vapour lights on the EM Bypass to LEDs. Key civic facilities, including KMC offices, health units, schools, markets, and crematoriums, are also being equipped with LED lighting.
Feedback from the public has been favourable, with motorists noting that LED lights are less harsh on the eyes compared to the sodium vapour alternatives. Furthermore, the longevity and illumination quality of LED lights surpass that of their predecessors. The civic body has also reported a reduction in maintenance costs; previously, each sodium light unit cost Rs 10,000, while the new LED units are priced at Rs 8,000 each. This comprehensive LED rollout not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also exemplifies KMC’s commitment to efficient municipal management and operational cost savings.
