May 19, 2022
Since last year, the majority of Starkville’s street lights have been upgraded to energy-efficient, cost-saving LED technology. But the citywide transition to LED won’t be completed by the end of this year as originally planned due to a familiar culprit: the global supply chain crisis.
“We’re still committed to the upgrade because it’s in the best interest of our customers from a safety and economic standpoint,” said Edward Kemp, general manager of Starkville Utilities. “Until our supply chain issues are resolved, we’re focused on upgrading to LED technology whenever street light outages are reported and being responsive to our customers’ needs.”
Starkville has around 2,600 street lights, 60% of which have been upgraded to LED technology. LED bulbs last 10 times longer, use about a third of the energy of incandescent bulbs, and emit a brighter, cleaner quality of light, which helps increase visibility for motorists and pedestrians.
Announced last June, Starkville Utilities’ accelerated street light upgrade project had been progressing on schedule until January, when deliveries from the supplier began slowing down.
“Lighting vendors have been dealing with material supply issues, and they’re doing their best to fill orders,” said Jason Horner, systems engineer. “Right now, we have enough lights on hand to respond to street light outages and keep Starkville’s street lights in working condition.”
Customers may report broken or non-functioning street lights to Starkville Utilities at 662-323-3133. Residents should be prepared to list the pole’s location and identifying number.
Starkville Utilities is a public utility serving 14,000 residences, businesses and industries in Starkville, Mississippi as well as Mississippi State University. Its mission is to supply safe, reliable, and cost-effective electric and water service of superior quality and value that improves the lives of its customers.