A Better and Brighter Bulb Comes to Market

 

In response to the 2006 Targeted Industries Report; Focusing Macomb County's Economic Development, County staff are reaching out to alternative energy companies to offer support in commercializing new technologies.  Alternative energy is an especially appealing industry because it holds the potential to create jobs as it reduces dependence on nonrenewable resources.  For instance, commercial lighting accounts for an estimated 20 percent of the nation’s electrical energy use.  Light emitting Diodes (LEDs) are a newer type of lighting that uses up to 50 percent less energy than traditional bulbs.  With a life expectancy of eight to ten years, this technology also offers cost savings through reduced replacement needs.

One such innovator of this technology – and a client of the department – is LED Optical Solutions, LLC, of Washington Township. LEDOS is a provider of design and development of custom solid state light engines. A group of laid off automotive engineers formed LEDOS in 2008.  With an average of more than 15 years experience in designing, developing and manufacturing automotive lamps, their competencies have been transferred to meet the needs of the commercial lighting industry.

With MCPED’s support, LEDOS was able to tap funding made available through the State of Michigan Pre-Seed Fund. These monies will enable the launch of the first LEDOS Brand Product: The Powered by LEDOS – LED Bulb, which is a screw-in retrofit targeted to replace bulbs commonly found in ornamental street lamps.

The county also partnered with the City of Warren to create demand for the new product by securing a LED demonstration project grant through the State of Michigan.  The total grant of $171,895 will enable Warren to illuminate its downtown with LED fixtures, as well as the area surrounding the Macomb County Administration Building in downtown Mount Clemens.  The City of Warren is expected to let out a bid for the project soon.

The positive impact of the project continues to grow.  LEDOS will partner with Macomb County-based manufacturer, A & J Automation, Inc. of Clinton Township, to manufacture and assemble the first-run of the LED light engine. The contract means that A & J will be recalling idled workers.  “This partnership with LEDOS comes at a good time. We are glad to support them while bringing back employees that were recently laid off,” said President Jerry Duda of A & J Automation, Inc.

Grant funded or not, LED lighting can help to reduce overhead expenses.  Businesses currently have a unique opportunity through the LEDOS “Pilot Partners Program.”