Arlington is set to launch the largest streetlight conversion project in the southwest, retrofitting 10,500 lights with high performing LED technology that will cut energy costs substantially.

The LED retrofit is part of a comprehensive energy program partnership with OpTerra Energy Services, a move that will help the City of Arlington save $14 million over the next 15 years.

Appearing brighter than the legacy yellow sodium vapor lights, the new LED fixtures will save energy, enhance safer streets, and redirect utility budget costs to support other city initiatives.

Michael Aranas, a streetlight administrator for the City of Arlington, said people will like the new technology.

"The LEDs are brighter and have a moonlight effect, " said Aranas. "They cover a wider area than the yellow, sodium lights and don 't have to be changed as much. "

During the first phase of the project, crews will retrofit streetlights along major arterials throughout the city. The second phase will include designated residential areas.

In addition to the LED retrofit, the Arlington project is expected to upgrade energy efficient performance across 22 city-owned sites, including Ott Cribbs Public Safety Center and the Elzie Odom Recreation Center. Aging air conditioning equipment, control systems and outdated lighting across various properties will be upgraded.

A Texas-based team of OpTerra engineers worked alongside City of Arlington management to develop the full program, which will decrease the city 's energy use by more than 2.5 million kilowatt hours each year. Water consumption will be reduced by more than 3,500,000 gallons every year. By reducing its purchase of utility power, the City will reduce its CO2 emissions by 2,383 tons -the equivalent to removing more than 385 passenger vehicles off the road every year.

All of the energy efficiency improvements will be made while working within the City of Arlington 's existing budget. OpTerra Energy Services is guaranteeing the annual energy savings.