Monmouthshire County Council is taking action on street lights which waste energy throughout day light hours.

Contractors hired by MCC are now looking to solve the problem by rolling-out LED lamps, which they say use considerably less energy.

Recently installed LED lights have been particularly affected and contractors have found fault with the wireless control technology used to switch on/off, and dim streetlights.

The new LED lights are gradually being introduced across the county as MCC attempts to cut waste.

A batch of faulty control systems have been uncovered, amplified by what the council described as ‘communication issues’. Work is now underway to replace the faulty system.

The Council’s head of operations, Roger Hoggins, said ‘improvements following this work should become apparent soon.’

LED lamps use significantly less energy than older-style lanterns, but the council says it is not incurring extra charges for lamps lit during the day given how energy charges are currently made.

Officers are ‘anxious’ to resolve roll-out the new setup.

Mr Hoggins said, “It is worth noting that the introduction of LEDs makes sense, especially as the cost of the technology continues to drop as the market grows.

“We have taken interest-free loans to pay for the new lamps using the reduction in energy costs to fund the borrowing.”

Further information is available on the council’s website – visit www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/street-lighting