Summary
Ameresco partnered with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) and the City of Memphis for a comprehensive, citywide conversion of over 77,000 existing streetlights to new LED fixtures with networked lighting controls. The project is designed to increase system reliability, bolster public safety, drive energy savings, lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and enhance MLGW’s operations and maintenance capabilities.
This project, supporting the sustainable growth of the fifth-most populous city in the Southeast, has been honored with the Smart 20 Award for Transformative City Infrastructure in 2024. It also has also been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the 2024 Integrated Lighting Campaign, honored in the “Sustainability in Lighting” category for its significant contributions to energy efficiency, public safety, and environmental sustainability.
“Ameresco’s deep expertise has been invaluable throughout our complex LED lighting upgrade and controls integration project. Their team’s knowledge was instrumental in every step, from initial evaluation to final implementation. Even though we are still in the final completion phase, the outcome of this LED lighting initiative has already been outstanding, providing better lighting for the residents of Memphis and simultaneously saving energy.”
– Doug McGowen
President and CEO, Memphis Light, Gas and Water
~55%
Annual Energy Savings
26,000+ Metric Tons
Annual Greenhouse Gas Reduction
37,000 MWh
Annual Energy Savings
77,000+
Fixtures Upgraded to LED
Customer Benefits
In addition to providing improved illumination, enhanced safety and reduced maintenance needs, the project is expected to result in annual energy consumption, costs, and carbon savings. The project supported significant business and economic growth across the Digital Delta region. By working in conjunction with the community, the project exceeded Memphis’s goals for Minority or Women-owned Business (MWBE) participation for job creation and workforce development. The project is designed to deliver:
- Energy cost and consumption savings of 55%, ultimately allowing the upgrades to pay for themselves over the life of the system
- Improved both streetscape and nighttime visibility for enhanced public safety
- Reduced GHG emissions by more than 26,000 metric tons, supporting the Memphis Area Climate Action Plan objective of reducing GHG emissions by 51% below 2016 levels by 2035
- Compatibility with other smart city technology for further integration
