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Choosing Energy-Efficient Lighting for Your Office

Pinergy
27 April 2023

In our previous series we discussed about the Simple and low-cost energy-saving tips for the workplace.

Simple and low-cost energy-saving tips for the workplace – ideas for reducing energy usage without significant investments

In this business electricity series post, we cover the impact of lighting on energy consumption at the workplace and how to choose energy-efficient lighting options.

Lighting is an essential component of any workplace or business, but it can also be a significant contributor to energy consumption and associated energy costs. According to the European Commission, lighting accounts for up to 19% of electricity consumption in commercial buildings. Choosing energy-efficient lighting options can help businesses to reduce energy consumption, associated energy costs while also contributing to lowering carbon footprint and a more sustainable future.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing energy-efficient lighting options:

LED lighting

An LED lighting upgrade from traditional lighting is one of the most energy-efficient lighting options available. According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), LED light bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs compared to traditional bulbs also last significantly longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The European Union has set minimum efficiency standards for LED lights or lighting products to ensure that only the most energy-efficient products are available on the market.

Lighting controls

Using lighting controls, such as dimmers and timers, can also help to reduce energy consumption and electricity costs. The UK’s Energy Saving Trust recommends using occupancy sensors to automatically turn off lights when a room is unoccupied. The SEAI also recommends using daylight sensors to automatically adjust lighting levels based on natural light levels.

Natural lighting

Maximizing natural lighting can also help to reduce energy consumption and costs. The European Commission recommends using reflective surfaces, such as white walls and ceilings, to make the most of natural light. Positioning workstations near windows can also help to maximize natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Lighting design

Effective lighting design can also help to reduce energy consumption and costs. According to the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, effective lighting design should aim to provide the appropriate level of light for the task while minimizing energy consumption. This may involve using a combination of task lighting and ambient lighting, as well as using lighting controls to adjust lighting levels based on activity and occupancy. Effective lighting design can also contribute to employee well-being and productivity.

Lighting controls

Lighting controls can also play a significant role in reducing energy consumption and electricity costs. According to the International Energy Agency, implementing advanced lighting controls, such as daylight and occupancy sensors, can result in energy savings of up to 60%. Lighting controls can also help to create a more comfortable and productive work environment by providing the appropriate level of lighting for the task at hand.

In conclusion, lighting is a significant contributor to energy consumption and associated energy and operating costs in commercial buildings. By choosing energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED lighting, using lighting controls, maximizing natural lighting, and implementing effective lighting design, businesses can significantly reduce energy consumption and associated costs while also contributing to a more sustainable future.

The topic for May is “Energy-efficient appliances – how to choose energy-efficient appliances for the workplace and reduce energy consumption.”

Choosing energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce energy consumption and associated costs or energy bills in the workplace. In May’s blog post, I will discuss the importance of choosing energy-efficient appliances and provide tips on how to choose the most energy-efficient appliances for the workplace.

Sources:

Energy Saving Trust. (2022). Lighting. https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/lighting/

European Commission. (2022). Energy-efficient lighting. https://ec.europa.eu/energy/topics/energy-efficient-lighting_en

International Energy Agency. (2019). Advanced lighting controls. https://www.iea.org/reports/advanced-lighting-controls

Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. (2022). Lighting design basics. https://www.lrc.rpi.edu/programs/nlpip/lightingAnswers/lightingDesignBasics.asp

Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. (2022). LED lighting. https://www.seai.ie/sustainable-s

Philip Connor

Philip Connor

Head of Energy Services
Philip is an aircraft and marine engineer who has turned his considerable skill set to renewable energy and energy efficiency. He believes in a solutions-based approach to business and helps our partners reduce their environmental impact in heat, transport and agriculture.