Ameresco, Inc., a leading cleantech integrator specializing in energy efficiency and renewable energy, has recently completed its streetlight conversion pilot program with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The $18.6 million project was funded by an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) and replaced more than 8,000 high-pressure sodium lighting fixtures across the greater Portland area with LEDs. Ameresco also upgraded lighting in 13 tunnels within ODOT Region 1.
The new LED streetlights are dark-sky friendly with a colour temperature of 3,000 to 4,000 Kelvin, use 50% less energy than traditional highway and tunnel lighting fixtures and will reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 3,500 metric tons annually. Upgraded streetlights line the highways in Region 1 of the ODOT system, which includes the Clackamas, Hood River, Multnomah, eastern Washington counties and the Metro interstate bridges.
Ameresco worked collaboratively with ODOT to develop a plan that minimized public traffic and safety concerns while adhering to ODOT directed design standards. The Ameresco team also worked in coordination with the major freight stakeholder on the project, Mobility Advisor Committee, to successfully complete the streetlight conversion project within the construction term.
