Bengaluru launches smart LED streetlight upgrade to slash power bills by 85%

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has commenced a major overhaul of the city’s street lighting infrastructure by replacing traditional sodium lamps with energy-efficient LED lights. Aimed at significantly reducing power consumption and improving monitoring, the initiative is expected to save over 85% in energy usage and cut down the city’s ₹380 crore annual electricity bill.

Also read: Bengaluru: BBMP to replace 3L streetlights with energy-efficient LED ones to save 50% cost on electricity bills

After years of planning, the project is finally taking shape. BBMP has awarded contracts across four designated zones, following surveys conducted in seven of its eight zones (excluding Mahadevapura). Installation work is set to begin this June.

Bengaluru currently has around 5.37 lakh streetlights consuming 51.5 crore units of electricity annually. Although nearly 2 lakh LED lights have already been installed with support from BBMP grants and elected representatives, many of these have crossed their warranty periods, shifting maintenance responsibility to contractors.

Under the new contracts, LED providers will be responsible for installation, operation, and maintenance for seven years, with BBMP committing to monthly payments totalling ₹700 crore. Beyond lighting, the initiative also integrates smart features such as CCTV cameras, air pollution sensors, and motion detectors. Each light will be fitted with motion sensors and linked to a centralised control system for real-time brightness adjustments.

This transition is set to enhance urban lighting efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve the city's ability to monitor and manage public infrastructure effectively.