LED Street-lighting Tests Conducted at Wailuku Millyard

Lighting graphic. File image by Wendy Osher.

By Maui Now Staff

The county is to host an LED street-lighting demonstration on Thursday night in Wailuku, Mayor Alan Arakawa announced.

The walking tour reportedly features four energy-efficient “smart” light-emitting diode streetlights on Wili Pa Loop in the Wailuku Millyard.

“The first of its kind in Hawaiʻi and one of the most advanced of its kind in the US, the testing process is examining the use of wireless remote controls to dim the streetlights late at night to save energy,” county officials said in a press release announcing the presentation.

As part of the test, several street lights along Wili Pa Loop are reportedly being dimmed each night from 10 p.m. to sunrise. County officials say testing also includes evaluation the various colors and coverages of light from each fixture and their corresponding effects on vision, safety, wildlife, light pollution and cost.

“These tests are helping us light the path toward reducing energy consumption and county costs,” said Mayor Arakawa in the announcement.

Mayor Arakawa said the new technology will allow the county to make “important breakthroughs in cost-savings,” while providing street safety and reducing light pollution.

The demonstration, which includes a presentation, is set to start at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 16 at the Wailuku Post Office, and will conclude at around 8:30 p.m.

“Lights being developed today are no longer being used just to light the streets; they are quickly becoming part of energy-conserving smart grid solutions as well,” said Jim Helmer, president of Lightmoves, who is assisting the county with the testing.

County officials welcome public comment on the dimmed lighting levels and invite the public to the demonstration.

Comments are being accepted via email at [email protected] or by mail to 2200 Main Street (One Main Plaza), Ste. #519, Wailuku, HI 96793.