LED Streetlight Upgrades | City of Port Moody

The City of Port Moody owns and maintains about 2,100 streetlights, and will be upgrading them to energy-efficient light emitting diode (LED) technology over the next 10 years. This shift will reduce energy use, lower maintenance costs, and improve lighting quality across the city.

Project background

The older High Pressure Sodium (HPS) and Metal Halide (MH) bulbs, traditionally used in streetlights are being phased out by manufacturers and are becoming more costly to replace. In 2021, the City worked with a consultant to develop an LED conversion strategy, followed by a cost analysis to compare fixture replacement options and identify cost-saving alternatives. Converting streetlights to LED lighting typically requires that the entire fixture be replaced, not just the bulb. In fall 2024, the City successfully conducted a pilot that replaced 30 decorative post-top streetlights in Heritage Woods with standardized Cobra-style LED fixtures.

In May 20, 2025 (see staff report to Council item 4.3), Council approved a gradual city-wide conversion for most lights to new Cobra-style LED fixtures. The City has allocated $150,000 per year in its Five-Year Capital Plan, and the work is planned to be completed over 10 years on a block-by-block basis, beginning with arterial roads.

Benefits converting to LED streetlights

Benefits	Details
Significant capital cost savings	By converting to Cobra-style LED fixtures instead of replacing the existing decorative post-top lights with similar LED models, the City is projected to save $2.3 million over 10 years.
Standardized maintenance and inventory	Cobra-style fixtures simplify future repairs and part replacement.
Faster implementation timeline	Standardized conversion to Cobra-style LED fixtures allows for lights to be completed within 10 years with existing capital plan funding.
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions	LED lights use less energy and last longer than HPS/MH bulbs.

Photo below shows a Cobra-style streetlight located at the roundabout at Heritage Mountain Boulevard and David Avenue.

How LED lighting is tailored by location in Port Moody

Area Type	Example Locations	Color Temp.	Tone	Why This Setting?
Residential neighbourhoods	Heritage Woods, Heritage Mountain, Glenayre	3000 K	Warm white	Softer light reduces glare and maintains the residential character
Adjacent to environmentally sensitive areas	Noons Creek	3000 K	Warm white	The City will consider using lower colour temperature lighting (e.g., 3000 K) near environmentally sensitive areas to help reduce light pollution, while balancing public safety needs.
Arterial and commercial streets	St. Johns Street, Barnet Hwy, Ioco Road	4000 K	Bright white	Enhances visibility and safety on high-traffic corridors

Frequently asked questions

Why is the City converting streetlights to LED?

LED lighting uses much less energy, which lowers overall demand and helps the City reduce long-term costs and environmental impact. It also lasts longer and needs less maintenance than older technologies.

Will the new LED lights be too bright for my neighbourhood?

No. The City is using different light tones depending on the area. Residential and environmentally sensitive areas will consider using a warmer 3000K light to reduce glare and maintain a softer appearance. Brighter 4000K lighting is reserved for commercial and high-traffic roads.

Will streetlight upgrades cause any disruptions in my neighbourhood?

The upgrades will be rolled out gradually and are not expected to cause major disruptions. While there may be brief interruptions during fixture replacement, the City will aim to minimize impacts on traffic and parking.

How long will it take to convert all the streetlights?

The LED upgrades will be rolled out over 10 years as part of the City’s capital plan. Work will be done gradually, block by block, starting with major roads.

Who do I contact if I have concerns about a streetlight near my home?

You can contact the City at engineering@portmoody.ca. The Engineering Division will review concerns about brightness and may adjust the angle or add shielding to reduce glare.

Will I be notified before streetlight upgrades happen in my neighbourhood?

Yes. Residents will receive notice before LED streetlight upgrades take place on their street. The notice will include contact information for City staff in case you have questions or concerns.

What if the upgraded streetlight shines too brightly into my home?

If the new LED streetlight causes glare into your home, please contact the City as soon as possible after installation. Some lights come with house-side shields to reduce glare, and adjustments may be possible depending on the fixture and location.