Clark County Launches Solar-Powered Streetlight Pilot Program to Combat Copper Wire Theft
In a proactive response to the ongoing issue of copper wire theft, Clark County has initiated a pilot program aimed at enhancing street lighting in areas severely affected by this crime. On Thursday, crews began the installation of 12 solar-powered streetlights on St. Louis Avenue, located just east of Fremont Street. This area has been plagued by darkness for months due to the theft of copper wiring, which has left streetlights inoperable.
The Impact of Copper Wire Theft
According to Jimmy Benoit, manager of the traffic division of Clark County’s Department of Public Works, the county has faced significant challenges due to copper wire theft. Since 2002, thieves have stolen approximately 1 million feet of copper wire, resulting in millions of dollars in losses for the local government. Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft emphasized that this issue extends beyond unincorporated Clark County, affecting municipalities throughout Southern Nevada and the entire state.
Exploring Alternative Solutions
The persistent problems caused by copper theft have prompted county officials to explore alternative solutions for street lighting in vulnerable areas. The newly installed solar streetlights, which cost around $5,600 each—including materials and installation—represent a significant investment, totaling $67,200 for the dozen lights being installed. The county plans to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of these solar lights before considering further installations in other trouble spots.
Benoit noted that while solar streetlights offer a promising solution, they require a higher level of maintenance compared to traditional streetlights. “You have to keep the trees clear of them. You have to make sure they’re tight and secure and accepting a charge,” he explained. The county will closely monitor the maintenance needs of the solar panels and the longevity of their batteries to determine the feasibility of this approach.
The Nature of Copper Theft
Copper wire theft is a complex issue that occurs on both small and large scales. While some thefts are perpetrated by individuals experiencing homelessness, organized operations are also responsible for significant losses. In many instances, once crews replace stolen copper wire, it is pilfered again within days, highlighting the need for more sustainable solutions.
Earlier this year, Clark County took additional measures to combat copper theft by relocating wiring from underground to above ground at the intersection of Charleston Boulevard and Lamb Avenue, another hotspot for copper theft. Benoit reported that this strategy has proven effective as a deterrent, prompting the county to consider various options to address the ongoing problem.
Legislative Efforts and Community Involvement
In addition to exploring different streetlight technologies, Clark County is pursuing legislative measures aimed at increasing penalties for those who steal and sell copper. The county is collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions, including the cities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson, to draft a unified proposal that would make it more challenging to sell stolen scrap metal. Naft stated, “If there’s no value to copper wire, then it will diminish the likelihood that it will get stolen.”
County officials are also working closely with law enforcement to educate them on the signs of potential copper theft. They encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “We tell the public if you see caps off at the bottom of a street pole, that’s a sign that perhaps the next day someone is going to come through and tamper with that pole,” Naft advised.
Conclusion
Clark County’s pilot program for solar-powered streetlights represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by copper wire theft. By investing in innovative solutions and pursuing legislative changes, the county aims to enhance public safety and restore lighting to areas that have long been in the dark. As the pilot program unfolds, officials will continue to monitor its effectiveness and explore additional strategies to combat this pervasive issue. Community involvement and vigilance will play a crucial role in safeguarding public infrastructure and deterring future thefts.