New LEDs save energy and inprove security

The corner of Freedom and Mission Ave at the 128th Air Refueling Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard is illuminated by new LED street lights 4 Nov, 2009. The Wing is improving its energy efficiency by replacing older, less efficient street lights with new high efficient Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lights. (USAF Photo by SMSGT Jeffrey Rohloff-released)

128th Air Refueling Wing brightens future with efficient LED technology

Published Nov. 5, 2009
By Capt John Capra
128ARW/PA

MILWAUKEE -- The 128th Air Refueling Wing is improving its energy efficiency by replacing older, less efficient street lights with new high efficient Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lights. In an effort to reduce the base power demand, this initiative is in response to the Presidential Executive Order 13423 which requires that all Federal agencies reduce energy intensity by 3% each year, totaling 30% by the end of fiscal year (FY) 2015 compared to the FY 2003 baseline.

Gen. Mitchell Air National Guard Base, home to the 128th Air Refueling Wing, recently replaced 114 street lights on its installation which consumes about 50% less energy than the previous High Pressure Sodium light fixtures. The new lighting also provides more sustained lumens (brightness) and offers a wider color spectrum which contributes to a safer and more secure installation.

Hurt Electric, Inc. of Menomonee Falls, Wis. was contracted to retrofit the existing street light poles and install the new LED light fixtures.