Not-so bright lights, big city: Calgary turns down the glow

The city of Calgary is cutting the amount of light it emits by half in an effort to take a shine off the skies and to cut energy costs.

Starting in November, the city will replace 49,000 street lights, cutting the wattage in half, and adding a lens that directs light onto the street and not into the sky.

Researchers say street lights cause 30 to 50 per cent of light pollution. City officials admit Calgary is overlit.

"I think the philosophy was the brighter the better...and energy costs weren't as much of a concern as they are now," says Peter Enslin of the roads department. "We just can't afford that luxury now."

Satellite pictures from the U.S. Defence Department show Calgary as a hot spot it is five times as bright as Seattle or Vancouver.

Calgary astronomer Bob King has been lobbying the city for years to turn down the lights. He says it's hard to see distant stars and galaxies because of the glow in the sky.

"You might compare it to noise pollution. Someone plays a loud stereo or mows their lawn too early. We control that right now. It's a quality of life issue. Light pollution falls into the same category."

While King is rejoicing over the city's actions, some residents aren't so pleased. They say they fear for their safety.

"You can't even find the keyhole in the door lock," complains Murray Calclough. "You have to carry a flashlight in your pocket at all times."

City officials say they hope complaints will eventually fade with the lights, especially when Calgarians realize the project will save them $2 million a year in energy costs.