Taichung Streetlight Adoption Plummets Amid LED Upgrades

Taichung City's "Light Up the Road" initiative, designed to encourage public adoption of streetlights, has seen a dramatic decline in participation over the past four years. While the city has expanded its streetlight network to 260,000 lamps, the number of adopted lights has plummeted from 608 in 2022 to just 315 last year, a mere 0.12% adoption rate. This sharp drop has prompted city councilors to question the program's effectiveness and call for a review.

Councilors like Wang Li-jen, Chang Yu-yen, Huang Shou-ta, and Hsieh Chih-chung highlighted that the program, which charges NT$1,000 per light per year and offers tax deductions, has failed to keep pace with the city's infrastructure upgrades. The switch to energy-efficient LED lights has significantly reduced electricity costs, diminishing the financial incentive for public adoption. Furthermore, the program lacks the innovative engagement strategies seen in other regions, such as offering additional blessings or public recognition for corporate sponsors.

In response, Construction Bureau Director Chen Ta-tien acknowledged the need for adjustments. He noted that the LED conversion has saved the city NT$150 million annually in electricity costs and recalled successful past campaigns that involved promoting the initiative at local temples. Chen agreed to explore lowering the adoption fee and enhancing promotional efforts, including public commendations, to reinvigorate public interest and participation in the "Light Up the Road" program. The city aims to re-engage citizens and ensure the initiative continues to contribute to Taichung's urban landscape.