LUMA, in collaboration with turtle conservation groups, modernizes streetlights in nesting areas for turtles.
(March 1, 2024, San Juan, Puerto Rico) – LUMA, in coordination with turtle conservation groups, is undertaking significant work as part of its streetlight modernization initiative across the island, aiming to protect marine life, thus reducing risks for sea turtles and other endangered species.
This action is part of the Community Street Lighting Initiative (CSI) and reflects LUMA’s commitment to the community, the environment, and turtle conservation groups like 7 Quillas. To date, LUMA has modernized hundreds of streetlights across the island, especially those located in sea turtle nesting areas such as Aguada, Aguadilla, Arecibo, Barceloneta, Cabo Rojo, Camuy, Cataño, Ceiba, Dorado, Guánica, Guayama, Hatillo, Isabela, Juana Diaz, Lajas, Loiza, Luquillo, Manatí, Maunabo, Mayagüez, Rio Grande, San Juan, Toa Baja, Vieques, and Yabucoa. This effort aims to ensure a safer environment for the reproduction and survival of these endangered species.
“We have installed streetlights that comply with all applicable laws and contribute to the conservation of endangered species. This initiative brings significant improvements to public safety and energy efficiency in communities across Puerto Rico,” said Heriberto González Méndez, director of LUMA’s Community Street Lighting Initiative.
The collaboration between LUMA and conservation groups including those focused on turtle conservancy reflects a commitment to preserving the environment and protecting marine biodiversity. LUMA will continue to work closely with these organizations to implement actions that contribute to marine life conservation in Puerto Rico.
“Certainly, we have seen a change across the island. Obviously, it takes time because we have to raise awareness. Many people don’t know exactly why it’s being done. Light pollution is very harmful to turtles because it confuses them and leads them away from the coast,” said Karen Schneck Malaret, education coordinator for 7 Quillas.
LUMA acknowledges the importance of this collaboration with conservation groups including those focused on turtle conservancy and will continue to work closely with them to implement concrete actions that contribute to the conservation of marine life in Puerto Rico.
Community Street Lighting Initiative
Since the launch of our Community Street Lighting Initiative in July 2022, LUMA has been modernizing streetlights across the island, with financial support from FEMA. Each of these new streetlights features state-of-the-art LED technology, consuming approximately 65% less energy and having a durability up to four times longer than conventional sodium and mercury lights. In October 2023, LUMA announced an acceleration in Phase 1 of the Initiative, aiming for a more expedited impact on our communities. This ambitious mission seeks to improve safety, increase energy efficiency, and illuminate our communities across Puerto Rico. For more information on LUMA’s progress, visit www.progresodelumapr.com.
About LUMA
LUMA is a Puerto Rican company that, since June 1, 2021, has been operating and managing the electric power transmission and distribution system in Puerto Rico. LUMA is a mission-driven company committed to transforming the electric transmission and distribution system to provide all Puerto Ricans with the reliable, resilient, clean, and affordable electric service they deserve. As a customer-centric company, LUMA’s entire workforce, nearly 4,500 employees strong, is committed to providing exceptional customer service to its 1.5 million customers.
About 7 Quillas
7 Quillas is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and management of leatherback turtles, beach nesting restoration with co-management permits from DRNA, with an emphasis on education and volunteerism.
