TfGM gradually replaces lights by LED’s

Since April 2010 TfGM has introduced a policy to replace all its T12 lights with LED’s. The public transport company from Manchester has altered its reactive maintenance procedures for lighting so that when inefficient T12’s require relamping, they are replaced with much more efficient LED equivalent products as standard. Per unit replaced this process will enable TfGM to save 188 kWh each year; that’s the equivalent of 102 kilo CO2 per unit. The project has been supported by advice and expertise from the University of Manchester.

LED there be light
TfGM has also introduced a policy to replace all of its decorative lighting with LED’s when they require relamping. If a LED is not suitable, for example in the office, the fitting will be replaced and T5’s or other appropriate lighting will be used. In addition, TfGM’s standard lighting specification now states that LED’s must also be considered when looking at certain functional areas such as bus station concourses. Further, they are developing a specification to enable the policy to be broadened to include all bus shelter lighting as well. In reactive repairs a minimum efficiency of lighting must be used and TfGM’s reactive maintenance contractors are required to meet these standards. All these measures will reduce carbon emissions, energy and maintenance costs.

Ongoing action
The policy will lead to an ongoing programme of replacement of inefficient lighting across TfGM’s estate, without the availability of significant capital budgets. TfGM expects that it will save approximately £ 18 (21.33€) per T12 unit per year in energy costs alone. This excludes savings from climate change levy tax and carbon taxes. In addition, the LED replacements will last significantly longer, leading to lower ongoing maintenance costs, estimated at over £ 200 (237.02€)for the lifetime of each unit. Smart metering will be used for the annual evaluations of TfGM’s energy performance.