The University of Connecticut, located in Storrs, Conn., is in the process of replacing all of the lights on campus, as well as satellite campuses, with new, energy efficient LEDs.

Their goal is to have all the lights, indoor and outdoor, completely replaced within five years. This includes exchanging the lights found at all of UConn's satellite campuses: Avery Point, Stamford, Hartford, Waterbury and Torrington, as well as the UConn Health Center in Farmington. Time sensors and individual control boxes will also be installed to further ensure energy efficiency.

The goal of this switch is to lessen the amount of maintenance needed to replace depleted lights and to reduce electricity costs for the school.

Stanley Nolan, director of utility operations and energy management in the office of Facilities Operations and Business Services, states that the lower energy costs could actually reduce the amount of tuition students have to pay.

"[The switch] helps the overall budget with operational costs, which has a direct tie to tuition. There are infrastructure fees for students, and when we use less energy those costs can be reduced," Nolan stated.

One unique aspect of incorporating LEDs on the campus can be found in Gampel Pavilion. In the past, the high sodium pressure lighting would take too long to relight if any special effects were done. Now, with the new LEDs, athletes can take to the floor with custom introductions that include special lighting effects, such as different colors, and spot lighting.

According to Nolan, UConn estimates that the entire project will cost $6.3 million, saving 6,285,000 kWh and $625,000 annually for a simple payback of 5 years after incentives.