LED streetlights could be dimmed to save money

Dorset Council said it would replace 18,500 streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs

Warmer coloured LED streetlights that can be dimmed, are part of modernisation plans that would lower energy use as well as reduce light pollution, a council has said.

Dorset Council said it would not have to pay anything up front to replace 18,500 streetlights across the county.

The proposals will be voted on by the Cabinet on Tuesday 9 September.

Council leader Nick Ireland said, if approved, they were "a win-win that delivers environmental improvements, financial savings, and better public services".

"This is a great example of how climate-friendly technology can also save money," he said.

"By upgrading our streetlights, we're cutting carbon, improving the night-time environment, and reducing costs."

Public feedback

The plans allow zoning where lighting levels can be changed to meet local needs, such as being dimmed in quieter areas.

The council said following public feedback lights that are currently switched off at night would instead be dimmed by 50% from 22:00.

The £6.5m plans would be paid for by its lighting service provider Enerveo it said. The company would then keep part of the energy savings until 2032 in return.

The council estimates it would also save £100K a year itself from its 25% share of the energy.

It said if the changes were approved, work could begin straight away without the council needing to find the money to pay for it.