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This article was published on Tuesday, 18 August, 2015. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

1,920 reasons to shine brightly

The project will see a total of 3,840 lights upgraded to more energy efficient alternatives. Upgrade works are scheduled to be carried out from 18 to 28 August, 2015.

Mayor Dennis Patterson said “the project was of enormous benefit to the community and highlighted what could be achieved through taking a partnership approach”.

“Not only are we improving the way in which we light our streets but we are also achieving significant savings, allowing for additional spending in other areas,” said Cr Patterson.

The $4.68 million Watts Working Better project will see 12,661 street lights across nine Councils upgraded, cutting emissions by 93,100 tonnes over the next 20 years.

The project received $2.95 million in funding from the Australian Government with councils collectively contributing $1.73 million.

“The environmental benefits are significant and are the equivalent of taking 21,000 cars off the road, which is an outstanding result in terms of reducing our carbon footprint,” said Cr Patterson.

Power supply will not be disrupted while installation works are carried out. The old lights will receive a new life with almost 95 per cent of the old light dismantled and recycled by ConnectGV with support from Foott Waste. Connect GV is a community organisation providing people with a disability with an opportunity to gain pre-vocational skills.