Superior Saves Taxpayers Thousands with LED…

Annual Savings

Energy Efficiency Saves Taxpayer Dollars

Taxpayers in the City of Superior will benefit from major cost savings after the city upgraded 536 streetlights to LED fixtures along U.S. Highways 2 and 53, as well as State Highway 35. The project, completed in partnership with Superior Water, Light & Power, is expected to save more than $34,000 annually in energy costs.

To help fund the project, the city teamed up with Focus on Energy®, Wisconsin’s statewide energy efficiency and renewable energy program. Thanks to that partnership, Superior secured $77,184 in rebates from Focus on Energy and another $74,059 through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Carbon Reduction Program—significantly lowering the overall cost of the upgrade.

Left to right Luther Kemp (SWL&P), Todd Janigo (City of Superior), Chris Carlson (City of Superior), Steve Craker (Focus on Energy), Mayor Jim Paine (City of Superior), State Representative Angela Stroud, Rob Sandstrom (SWL&P)

The city’s contracted electrician, Benson Electric Company, played a key role in the installation. As a registered Focus on Energy Trade Ally, Benson Electric earned a $7,236 bonus for its work helping Superior complete the project efficiently and cost-effectively.

“We took advantage of every available rebate to bring value to the community,” said Todd Janigo, Public Works Director. “Focus on Energy played an important role in helping us improve our lighting system.”

“Superior is a notable example of how good planning and strong partnerships can lead to lasting improvements,” said Steve Craker, Superior’s Focus on Energy Advisor, highlighting the strength of the collaboration. “This investment in energy-efficient lighting shows what communities can achieve when they explore all the resources available to them.”

The new LED streetlights also use dark sky technology, minimizing light pollution while improving roadway visibility and safety. “These lights are more efficient and will need fewer repairs over the next ten years, leading to long-term savings for the city,” said Chris Carlson, Assistant Public Works Director.

“This lighting project reflects Superior’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure,” added Rebecca Baker, Chief of Staff to Mayor Jim Paine. “It’s just one of many efforts the city is making to improve services while protecting the environment.”

A clarification has been made to the previously released statement regarding the City's lighting upgrade. The energy savings figures cited reflect statewide average estimates rather than project-specific results. The release has been updated to note that these values represent this project.