Decision details

a)    That the comments of the Highways and Transport Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted;

b)    That the outcome of the trial be noted;

c)    That the dimming of County streetlights to 30% intensity from 20:00 hours until 07:00 hours be approved;

d)    That the Director of Environment and Transport be authorised to make alterations to the dimming of streetlights following feedback from Leicestershire Police and other key stakeholders in accordance with the approved risk assessment.

(KEY DECISION)

REASONS FOR DECISION:

The Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) 2023/24-2026/27 identified potential savings by reducing the street lighting service. The following savings have been achieved through the trial:

a) Reduced street lighting energy costs by £539,759;

b) Reduced street lighting energy consumption by 1,442,770 kWh;

c) Reduced carbon emissions by 319.3 tonne.

The trial had a positive impact on reducing costs associated with the street lighting service while leaving lighting in place, albeit at reduced lighting levels.

Dimming of streetlights would result in future savings in the form of reduced future energy costs due to reduced energy consumption. However, if the price per unit of energy increases, associated electricity costs will also increase.

Delegation to the Director will enable a prompt response for any future issues that may arise.

Dimming of streetlights to 30% from 20:00 hours until 07:00 hours across the County is considered a “departure from standards” and does not meet criteria for lighting classes within the British Standard for roadway lighting BS5489. It therefore requires the Cabinet’s approval before it is implemented as a permanent measure.