Dexter lights up downtown with energy-efficient bulbs

Dexter hopes to save money in energy bills and light maintenance with the recent installation of 124 light-emitting diode bulbs downtown.The village recently swapped the light pole bulbs for LEDs, considered to be among the best technology for conserving energy and heat. Most of the project was funded by energy efficiency block grants worth $50,000, to which the village contributed its own $20,000, explains Dexter assistant village manager Courtney Nicholls.The LED light installation was due to not just grant support, but had already been discussed by the village council and the Dexter Downtown Development Authority. “It’s an effective way for us to reduce our electric bills, and also our maintenance costs,” she says.Although the lights are covered under warranty for seven years, they should last closer to 15, and that means fewer trips up to replace them.Another green project the village is considering for the future is participating in the Michigan Green Communities Challenge, run by the Michigan Municipal League, which gives municipalities ideas for operating with better energy efficiency.Source: Courtney Nicholls, Dexter assistant village managerWriter: Kristin Lukowski