Mangano Saves Millions For Taxpayers With Energy Efficient Projects

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today announced the completion of a major initiative to install energy efficient Light-Emitting Diode (LED) traffic signals at more than 1,300 intersections throughout Nassau County. The project, funded by a grant by the New York Power Authority (NYPA), will save an estimated $1.1 million annually for taxpayers.

In addition to the LED project, Mangano announced a new initiative at the Nassau County Jail to install energy efficient lighting and perform an electrical service upgrade that will save millions annually in energy usage and maintenance.

County Executive Mangano stated, “My administration is working tirelessly to implement efficiencies that protect taxpayer dollars. Nassau County will save millions of dollars each year from lower energy consumption and lower maintenance as a result of these infrastructure improvements.”

Since the LED traffic lights use less electric power, savings will occur. The new signals are also expected to last more than 10 years - allowing for more efficient use of resources that will save on replacement, maintenance and disposal costs. Most importantly, the LED modules in the traffic lights are much brighter than standard bulbs, which will have a positive impact on driver and pedestrian safety.

“Every day we can make our roads safer is a great day. If we can save millions at the same time, it is a tremendous victory for Nassau taxpayers,” added Mangano.

The lighting project at the Nassau Jail replaces a system that is antiquated and inefficient. Throughout the span of the project, expected to last several months, all lighting within buildings A, B, C, D & E will be replaced with a combination of energy efficient fluorescent and LED lighting. The majority of the fixtures will be retrofitted with new tubes, sockets and ballasts. A new independent electric service will be also installed to the Jail complex.

Since the new fluorescent lamps will have a rated life of 50,000 hours compared to the existing lamps with a rating of 10,000 hours, the current maintenance cost will be reduced dramatically. The County will also receive approximately $200,000 in LIPA rebates.