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What if we told you that there is a simple way to reduce your electricity bill? All you would have to do is change your sodium vapour bulbs to a more efficient lighting option like LEDs to save hundreds of dollars on your electricity bill.
Most properties, commercial and residential, use “Dusk to Dawn” lighting fixtures, those bulky light bulbs that are used in street lamps and along perimeter walls. The bulbs inside of them are known as sodium vapour bulbs.
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Why is this important?
With the recent heat wave, many people were forced to run their air conditioning units and fans at full blast 24 hours a day. This led to an expected higher consumption of electricity and in turn a higher bill at the end of the 60-day billing cycle.
As soon as the heat wave dissipated, consumers were hit another blow as the dreaded rate increases were announced by the Regulated Industries Commission (RIC).
“The RIC made public its proposed changes to T&TEC rates in December 2022, and the increases ranged from 15 per cent to as high as 64 per cent for residential customers based on kilowatt consumption. Commercial customers faced percentage increases ranging from 51 per cent to 63 per cent.”
Source https://www.cnc3.co.tt/public-ttec-still-in-the-dark-on-electricity-rate-increase/ October 5, 2023
Advantages and reasons for changing sodium vapour lamps to LEDs
Changing sodium vapour lamps to LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) offers numerous advantages and compelling reasons for doing so. Here are some of the key benefits and reasons to make the switch:
Energy efficiency
LEDs are significantly more energy-efficient than sodium vapour lamps. They consume less electricity to produce the same or even better quality of light, resulting in substantial energy savings.
Considering that the average property may have at least four of these bulbs to illuminate the 4 corners of a property, after reviewing the table blow you will see the savings per year on each bulb.
| Electricity Rate ($/kWh) | Sodium Vapour Bulb Annual Cost at Current Rate ($) | Sodium Vapour Bulb Annual Cost with 64% Increase ($) | LED Bulb Annual Cost at Current Rate ($) | LED Bulb Annual Cost with 64% Increase ($) |
| 0.26 | 401.02 | 657.89 | 80.20 | 131.58 |
| 0.32 | 501.28 | 824.86 | 100.26 | 164.86 |
| 0.37 | 578.07 | 951.62 | 115.61 | 190.39 |
The table above makes a comparison between sodium vapour bulb and their LED equivalents. The rates quoted are the 3 current rates for electricity as well as the rates after the 64% increase.
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Longevity
LEDs have a longer lifespan compared to sodium vapor lamps. LED fixtures can last 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
Instant light
LEDs provide instant, full-brightness illumination when turned on, unlike sodium vapour lamps that may require warm-up time. This can improve safety and visibility.
Better quality of light
LEDs offer high-quality, directional light that is often preferred for various applications. They produce minimal glare, light pollution, and colour distortion, enhancing visual comfort and reducing negative environmental impacts.
Environmental impact
LEDs are more environmentally friendly as they contain no hazardous materials like the mercury found in some types of sodium vapour lamps. They also emit fewer greenhouse gases due to their lower energy consumption.
Customisable lighting
LEDs allow for greater control and customisation of lighting. You can adjust the brightness, color temperature, and even implement smart lighting systems for advanced control and automation.
Improved safety
LEDs provide better visibility and colour rendering, making them a safer choice for applications such as roadways, parking lots, and outdoor areas.
Reduced light pollution
LEDs can be directed more precisely, reducing light spill and helping mitigate light pollution. This is especially important for preserving the natural night environment.
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Compatibility with renewable energy
LEDs are well-suited to work with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, due to their lower energy requirements and instant-on capability.
Smart lighting features
LEDs can be integrated with smart lighting systems that enable features like dimming, motion sensing, and remote control, optimising energy usage and enhancing user convenience.
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Government incentives
T&Tec offers free LEDs, and with the right adaptor, it would cost you next to nothing and basically pay for itself within the next billing cycle.
In summary, replacing sodium vapour lamps with LEDs is a wise choice for energy efficiency, cost savings, better quality of light, and a reduced environmental footprint. It’s an investment that pays off over time, offering numerous benefits to both individuals and communities.
Electricity Transmission and Distribution Sector Price Review 2023 – Comments
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