Bill > A3998

Introduced Session

This bill requires municipalities, public utilities, and the State to install or replace each street light owned by the municipality, public utility or State with LED, or light-emitting diode, technology within five years of the effective date of this bill. Public utilities are to recover the cost of installing or replacing these street lights through the societal benefits charge. Municipalities are required to install or replace each street light within the municipality as the municipal budget permits. The Legislature finds that LED street lights, or street lights that use light-emitting diode technology, are the most efficient means to light our streets and public spaces because of their energy efficiency, using 15 percent of the energy of an incandescent bulb while generating more light per watt and longevity, with bulbs lasting up to 100,000 hours. Street lighting can account for as much as 40 percent of an electric utility bill; however, studies show that street lighting costs can be reduced by as much as 65 percent when switched to LED street lights, and even more if advanced lighting controls are incorporated. Maintenance costs associated with LED street lights can also contribute to savings because of their longevity and overall diminished maintenance requirements, when compared to traditional street lights. Under the bill, municipalities, public utilities, and the State are not required to install or replace a street light if: the street light is used on a temporary basis because emergency personnel require it; the street light is used on a temporary basis for nighttime work; the street light is used for a special event or situation; a compelling safety interest exists; a federal law supersedes or is inconsistent with the bill; or the street light is used on a historic property.

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Nancy Pinkin (D)*, 

Reported and Referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee (on 05/17/2018)