Some changes are taking place in Osceola County after doctors said there could be a link between artificial lighting and cancer.
Dr. Richard Stevens, with the University of Connecticut, has spent years on his theory between electrical lighting and cancer. He said electrical lighting could cause changes in hormones that are related to breast cancer.
"Well, you know, in our homes, one of the things we can do is sort of dim down our evenings," Stevens said, noting it's best to not be around bright lights constantly. "I am not giving up electricity. Get it dimmer."
The Orlando Utilities Commission is conducting a lighting project in the area that includes replacing high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights with energy-efficient LED lighting models to address dark sky considerations.
Vernon Ford, lighting manager with OUC, said technology has come to a point where they can do this efficiently because the cost of technology is steadily decreasing.
It's a five-year plan that started two years ago and just finished in Orlando. Now, the program is about to move into Osceola County. The project, which costs about $6 million, is supposed to reduce energy consumption and costs for street lighting.
"When the change of lighting comes to your area and you have a concern, call your utility company or the person who puts up the light and see what they can do about it," Ford said. "It's not a one-shot deal where we won't cooperate with you. We try to satisfy everyone."
Ford said there has been some hesitation about the transition because the newer lights are bright. However, there are solutions in place, including putting up shields on the fixtures.