Shimla streetlights get LED bulbs

In an effort to save energy, the Himachal Pradesh government has begun installing light emitting diode (LED) bulbs in downtown Shimla.

LED bulbs are more energy efficient than even compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). According to one study conducted here, LED consumes around 70 per cent less energy than traditional lighting.

The LED lighting scheme in town is sponsored by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). Streetlights have already been installed in an around the posh Mall area, the heart of the town. The process is on to install LED bulbs in other areas as well. By installing 214 bulbs in Shimla the civic authorities are expected to save around Rs 1.5 million every year on streetlighting.The plan is to eventually replace all existing traditional street lights in Shimla with LED bulbs, officials say.

Manufacturing LED bulbs is still in its infancy and hence expensive. But this technology is expected to become widespread in coming years and make other technologies obsolete and replace all other forms of lighting, say experts.