OPPD is experimenting with new LED light bulbs in the Field Club neighborhood, in hopes of saving energy and hopefully money.

The new LED (Light-Emitting Diode) street lights at 45th and Woolworth are part of a 90-day test program.

"According to the manufacturer, LED bulbs have the potential to provide savings to taxpayers in both energy and maintenance costs as the bulbs could last up to five times as long as the bulbs currently used in street lights and many use half as much energy,” says Mayor Fahey.

OPPD says if the lighting is adequate they will expand the project to study the reliability and durability of the lights.

“Some of the issues with LEDs, they are a little more expensive, about four times more than the current high pressure sodium-type bulbs," says OPPD’s Gary Gates. The LED lights cost $450 compared to $93 for high pressure sodium light bulbs.

The pilot project will determine how well the new lights hold up and if there is a savings. OPPD will phase in the LEDs when technology improves and the price goes down.

Those who live in the neighborhood have noticed the new lights and like the new look. "The new lights are slightly brighter than the old ones,” says Charlie Zachariae. “I understand they save energy, which is a good thing."

"The new street lights are great,” says Vanessa Larson. “It’s a little bit brighter and a bigger area that it lights up which is great for safety. A lot of people out here walking their dogs.

OPPD says there are currently only two or three other cities experimenting with LED lights. There are about 55,000 street lights in Omaha.