Comparative Study of Energy Consumption Patterns in LED vs Traditional Street Lighting Systems in Semi-Urban Areas

Abstract

Municipal street lighting represents a substantial portion of public electricity expenditure, with traditional high-intensity discharge lamps consuming significantly more energy than modern light-emitting diode alternatives. This research presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of energy consumption patterns between LED and traditional street lighting systems across five semi-urban zones in the Greater Toronto Area, conducted between January 2022 and December 2023. The investigation monitored 847 lighting fixtures, comprising 423 traditional high-pressure sodium and metal halide units alongside 424 newly installed LED replacements, using automated meter reading systems that recorded consumption data at fifteen-minute intervals throughout the observation period. Statistical analysis revealed that LED installations achieved mean energy savings of 58.7% compared to traditional counterparts operating under identical environmental conditions and illumination requirements. Seasonal variation analysis demonstrated that energy differentials remained consistent throughout the year, with winter months showing marginally higher absolute savings due to extended operation hours. The cost-benefit assessment indicated a payback period of 4.2 years when considering installation expenses, reduced maintenance requirements, and electricity savings at current utility rates. Power quality measurements documented improved power factor characteristics in LED systems, averaging 0.94 compared to 0.82 for traditional magnetic ballast installations. This improvement reduces reactive power demand and associated transmission losses, providing benefits extending beyond direct energy consumption metrics. Light output depreciation monitoring over the 24-month period showed LED fixtures maintaining 96.3% of initial luminous flux compared to 87.4% retention in traditional lamps approaching their rated service life. The findings establish quantitative evidence supporting accelerated adoption of LED street lighting in semi-urban Canadian municipalities where moderate traffic volumes and residential proximity create favorable conditions for standardized retrofit programs. The research contributes practical guidelines for municipal planners regarding fixture selection, installation scheduling, and expected performance trajectories based on empirical data from actual operating conditions rather than manufacturer specifications alone.