The lights on Paris Avenue in Port Royal are a little darker this week, but only if you are looking from above.
On ground level, residents should see little change after the town switched to more energy-efficient LED fixtures that focus light downward instead of allowing it to escape upward.
About 25 streetlights illuminate Paris Avenue, and all are being replaced at a total cost of about $25,000, town manager Van Willis said.
The cone-shaped lights replaced the acorn-shaped fixtures this week. They are designed so less than 2 percent of light escapes upward, decreasing the energy needed and slightly increasing the amount of light on Paris Avenue, according to Willis.
The black fixtures reflect and focus the light so the rays are concentrated on the streets and sidewalks. The design reduces light pollution, Willis said.
It's not clear how much the lights will save the town on its energy bill.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates LED lights can last 25 times longer than traditional bulbs and use 75 to 80 percent less energy.
Follow reporter Erin Moody at twitter.com/EyeonPortRoyal.
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