Department of Transportation

HONOLULU — The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT), working with Johnson Controls, advances the state’s commitment to sustainability by providing energy-efficient lighting solutions on the highway systems in Oahu and Maui districts.

In July 2015, HDOT Highways Division signed an energy savings contract with Johnson Controls that will reduce annual energy use by an estimated 43.4 percent. Under the contract, approximately 20,000 highway and tunnel light fixtures and more than 5,200 interior and parking lot light fixtures will be replaced with high-efficiency Light Emitting Diode (LED) equipment.

“It is our vision to save energy, reduce costs and ensure safety for our drivers and pedestrians while improving our highway system,” said Ford Fuchigami, Hawaii Department of Transportation Director. “The project also reinforces the State’s focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.”

This initiative is part of the Highways Energy Savings Program, which aligns with Governor David Ige’s sustainability goals and energy efficiency initiatives at Hawaii Department of Transportation Airport and Harbor facilities. It makes a significant contribution to energy efficiency and economic value by providing $126 million guaranteed savings in energy costs over the eighteen-year performance period.

In addition, the contract supports Hawaii’s commitment to the Performance Contracting Accelerator Program, part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings Initiative, and exceeds Hawaii’s commitment to the Clinton Global Initiative Commitment to Action.

As part of the improved lighting, contractors and the public should be aware that systems will be energized and electricity will remain on 24/7, effective April 4, 2016.  The contract includes continuous monitoring capabilities that make it possible to instantly identify when power is cut to an area and smart controls that enable dimmable options.

Improvements are already underway on Fort Weaver Road in Leeward Oahu. Installation of new LED equipment throughout highways systems will be completed by June 30, 2017.

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