Ramstein upgrades to LED lighting

Lights are beginning to change across streets, facilities, and the flightline at Ramstein Air Base in Germany — but not just for looks.

The 786th Civil Engineer Squadron is undertaking a major project to replace all fluorescent lighting with energy-efficient LEDs. This effort comes in response to a German regulation issued in 2023, which bans the purchase of fluorescent bulbs due to their high energy consumption.

While the switch is expected to drastically reduce energy costs — down to about one-third of previous expenses — the initial price tag for replacing every light on base exceeds the squadron’s annual budget.

For now, fluorescent lights can remain in use until they burn out. In the meantime, the squadron has prioritized critical areas like the flightline, ensuring essential operations stay well-lit during the transition.