Lighting Efficiency
At Enigin we are obviously concerned with saving energy and reducing harmful emissions - part of our strategy is to control and use energy efficient lighting - we have the LESS range, which use the very latest technology to operate to a high standard.
But here are some details and advice regarding lighting:
Quick Facts
Lighting accounts for about 12 percent of energy use in residential buildings and 25 percent in commercial buildings.
Both conserving lighting use and adopting more efficient technologies can yield substantial energy savings. Some of these technologies and practices have no up-front cost at all, and others pay for themselves over time in the form of lower utility bills. In addition to helping reduce energy use, and therefore greenhouse gas emissions, other benefits may include better reading and working conditions and reduced light pollution.
New lighting technologies are many times more efficient than traditional technologies such as incandescent bulbs, and switching to newer technologies can result in substantial net energy use reduction, and associated reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. A 2008 study for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) revealed that using one particular new lighting technology for niche purposes in which it is currently feasible would save enough electricity to equal the output of 27 coal power plants.
Background
Nearly all of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the residential and commercial sectors can be attributed to energy use in buildings.
Embodied energy – which goes into the materials, transportation, and labor used to construct the building – makes up the next largest portion. Even so, existing technology and practices can be used to make both new and existing buildings significantly more efficient in their energy use, and can even be used in the design of net zero energy buildings—buildings that use design and efficiency measures to reduce energy needs dramatically and rely on renewable energy sources to meet remaining demand. The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA 2007) calls for all new commercial buildings to be net zero energy by 2030. An integrated approach provides the best opportunity to achieve significant GHG reductions because no single building component can do so by itself and different components often interact with one another to influence overall energy consumption. However, certain key building elements can play a significant role in determining a building’s energy use and associated GHG emissions.
Lighting accounts for about 12 percent of energy use in residential buildings and 25 percent in commercial buildings, which means it uses the second largest amount of energy in buildings after heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Adjustments to lighting systems can be relatively straightforward and achieve substantial cost savings. Consequently, addressing lighting can be a relatively simple way to reduce a building’s energy use, and related GHGs, in a cost-effective manner. Reducing energy use from artificial lighting can be achieved in two ways:
Conservation
Conservation efforts minimize the amount of time that lights are in use and can include behavioral change, automation, and building design.
Efficiency
Efficiency improvements reduce the amount of energy used to light a given space, generally using a more efficient technology.
Description
This section briefly describes some of the most common ways to reduce the amount of energy consumed by lighting systems. The following options illustrate a range of conservation options—from small adjustments in daily habits to larger building design elements—that can reduce the use of artificial lighting:
Behavioral Change
Turning off lights when they are not being used reduces energy use, emissions from electricity, and utility bills. This practice may include turning off lights in unoccupied rooms as well as in rooms where there is adequate natural light. Adjusting artificial light output can also provide energy savings; for example, using task lighting (e.g., a desk lamp) rather than room lighting can reduce the number of fixtures in use, and dimmers allow lights to be used at maximum capacity when necessary and at low capacity when less light is needed, such as for safety lighting, mood lighting, or when some daylight is available.
Technologies that reduce lighting use Timers and sensors can reduce light usage to the necessary level; these options use technology to mimic the “good behavior” described above. Sensors come in a variety of models that serve different purposes, and certain types of sensors are only appropriate for certain types of light fixtures. For example, lamps that take a long time to start are not suitable for sensors that go off and on frequently.
Occupancy sensors help ensure that lights are only on when they are being actively used. Infrared sensors can detect heat and motion, and ultrasonic sensors can detect sound. Both must be installed correctly to ensure that they are sensitive to human activity rather than other activity in the vicinity (such as ambient noise). Some estimates suggest that occupancy sensors can reduce energy use by 45 percent, while other estimates are as high as 90 percent.
Photosensors use ambient light to determine the level of light output for a fixture. For example, photosensors might be used to turn outdoor lights off during daylight hours.
Improving building design to maximize natural light
Building designs that incorporate a substantial amount of natural light also reduce the need for artificial lighting; in these cases, artificial light may become a supplement for use during the night or when otherwise needed. Architects and land planners can play a role by designing buildings to include skylights or windows and orienting these toward the south or west.
Designers and building occupants can choose light paint colors that maximize reflectance, and they can orient furniture to take advantage of available light. When addressing GHG emissions through building design, it is important to take a holistic approach that considers not just how design affects natural light, but also the heating and cooling requirements for the building. Increasing the amount of sunlight a building receives may also lead to high levels of heat intake, which can have important implications for the building’s HVAC system.
For example, large windows that reduce artificial lighting might also result in heat gain that requires more air conditioning in warm climates, or the same heat gain in a colder climate might reduce the need for additional heating.3 In some cases, special coatings on windows can help either maximize or minimize solar heat gain, depending on the desired effect (see Climate TechBook: Building Envelope). Coordinating window selection, building design, and lighting effectively can result in maximum solar light intake with the desired level of heat intake.
When artificial lighting is necessary, choosing efficient technologies can effectively reduce electricity use and related GHG emissions. In choosing among the available technologies, it is important to consider several factors, including the quality of lighting needed, the frequency of use, and the environment in which the light is being used (e.g., indoor or outdoor). The following types of lighting and fixtures are most common in buildings:
Incandescent bulbs These bulbs emit light when an electrical current causes a tungsten filament to glow; however, 90 percent of the energy used for the bulb is emitted as heat rather than light, making these bulbs the least efficient for most household purposes when evaluating them on a lumen output to energy input basis. Halogen bulbs are a type of incandescent that are slightly more efficient than standard incandescent but less efficient than most other alternatives.
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and fluorescent tubes
These emit light when an electric current causes an internal gas-filled chamber to fill with ultraviolet (UV) light, which is then emitted as visible light through a special kind of coating on the tube.4 All fluorescent bulbs require a ballast, a component that regulates the current going though the lamp. Ballasts can be integrated into the bulb, as is the case for most CFLs (allowing them to be used interchangeably with most incandescent bulbs) or non-integrated, which require the ballast to be part of the fixture, as is the case for many fluorescent tubes used in schools and offices. Ballasts come in two varieties: magnetic (which are older and less efficient) and electronic (which are newer and much more efficient). Efficiency upgrades for fluorescent tube lights require consideration of the ballasts because they contribute significantly to the overall energy draw of the fixture.
Both CFLs and fluorescent tubes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and efficiencies (see Figure 2 for a diagram of a typical CFL bulb).5 They generally are long-lasting products, with a lifetime of 10,000 hours for CFLs and a lifetime of 7,000-24,000 hours for tubes.6 Incandescents, by comparison, have a lifetime of 750-2500 hours.
Source: U.S. EPA/ DOE Energy Star Program. “Learn About Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs”
High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps HID lamps come in several varieties with widespread applications. They emit light when a current—also regulated through a ballast—is passed between two electrodes on either end of a gas-filled tube. Mercury, sodium, or metal halide gas can be used, each with different color outputs, lifetimes, and applications (see Figure 1). These types of lights are not appropriate for all types of areas and use; for instance, HID lamps have a long start-up period—up to ten minutes—and are best used in areas where lighting must be sustained for several hours (e.g., on sports fields or for street lights).7 In general, HID bulbs are 75-90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs and have a long lifetime, with metal halide and high-pressure sodium bulbs being far more efficient than mercury vapor bulbs (see Figure 3).8
Low-pressure sodium Though these types of lamps are among the most efficient available for outdoor use, they are only useful for certain applications because of their long start-up time, cool-down time, and poor color rendition. Low-pressure sodium lamps are typically used for street or highway lighting, parking garages, or other security lighting. Because of their niche application, they are not typically considered as a substitute for other types of less efficient bulbs.
Light Emitting Diode (LED)
In light-emitting diodes, electrons and electron holes (atoms that lack an electron) combine, releasing energy in the form of light. This technology has been around for several decades, but many applications of LEDs for lighting have only recently become available commercially as improved light colors have been developed and costs reduced. LED fixtures can use 90 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs, and they have a long lifetime. LEDs have small, very bright bulbs and because of their size, LED fixtures are often found in specialty applications such as decorative lamps as well as functional lamps in difficult-to-reach areas, such as for strip lighting, outside lighting, display lighting, stairway lighting, etc. (please see the DOE website for more information about current LED applications). LEDs are more durable than most other products and are more controllable because the light can be focused in a particular direction and the LED can be dimmed.10 Figure 4 shows the components of a typical LED.
Figure 4: Diagram of a Light Emitting Diode
The development of LEDs has generated a new field of lighting technology: solid-state lighting. Through the use of LEDs and similar products, researchers are developing an array of lighting options that use solid objects—rather than energy passed through a vacuum or gas—to produce light. The continued development of solid-state lighting will enable an even more widespread, general-use application for these types of products.
Hybrid Solar Lighting In this emerging technology, a roof-mounted solar collector sends the visible portion of solar energy into light-conducting optical cables, where it is piped to interior building spaces. Controllers monitor the availability of solar light and supplement it as necessary with fluorescent lights to provide the desired illumination levels at each location. Early experiments show that hybrid lighting is a viable option for lighting on the top two floors of most commercial buildings.11 This technology has other promising benefits as well. The solar collector on the rooftop can separate visible light from infrared radiation; the visible light can then be used for lighting, and the infrared radiation can be used for other purposes, such as to produce electricity, for hot water heating, or for a space heating unit. Because the energy is split, less heat energy is wasted in lighting—it is instead used for other energy-consuming items within the building. While hybrid solar lighting systems have been developed and demonstrated in various facilities, they are currently not cost-competitive with most other lighting options. Research is underway with the goal of achieving commercial viability.
Environmental Benefit/Emission Reduction Potential
Through conservation and efficiency measures, GHG emissions associated with lighting can be reduced significantly. At the level of individual households and businesses, conservation and efficiency measures can provide lower utility bills, but widespread adoption at the societal level can result in broader GHG emission reductions and environmental benefits from the reduced demand for electricity. A range of options exists to address lighting efficiency, and using less artificial light altogether or using more efficient technologies can realize substantial environmental benefits. CFLs are four times more efficient than incandescent lights and LED lights are 90 percent more efficient than incandescents; substituting these products for traditional lighting technologies, for example, can reduce net energy use.
Widespread application of efficient lighting technologies will be essential for GHG emission reductions. A 2008 study for the U.S. DOE revealed that replacing LEDs for niche purposes in which LEDs are currently feasible would save enough electricity to equal the output of 27 coal power plants (see Figure 5).12 Though this represents only one percent of total energy consumption for lighting according to the most recent DOE estimates, savings from LED technology will increase as it is implemented on a more widespread basis.13 McKinsey & Co’s Pathways to a Lower-Carbon Economy, for example, projects significant energy savings from switching from incandescent and CFL bulbs to LED technology by 2030; this would not only provide GHG emission reductions from lower energy consumption, but it is also cost-effective over the lifetime of the bulbs.
Greater GHG emission reductions can be achieved through integrated approaches that consider the entire building as a whole. Improving lighting may increase ambient heat (as in solar heat gain from daylighting) or decrease heat (such as reduced heat loss from inefficient bulbs), and depending on the region, season, and building design, this may relieve pressures on HVAC systems as well.
In addition to the climate benefits of efficiency and conservation in lighting, other benefits may include better reading and working conditions, reduced light pollution, and lower utility bills.
Cost
Some conservation efforts to reduce GHG emissions associated with energy use for lighting, such as turning off lights that are not in use, have no cost at all and, in fact, provide immediate savings from lower utility bills. For new buildings, incorporating design features that maximize natural light can also be an important, cost-effective element of constructing a net zero energy building. Other conservation and efficiency measures require an upfront cost that is later recouped through lower utility bills, including:
Installing timers and sensors The upfront price of timers and sensors varies depending on the type and scale of installation,14 but overall savings depend on the net reduction in electricity consumption that results from the use of these technologies. Installation can result in net savings through lower utility bills.
Replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs CFLs are generally more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but they provide cost savings over the lifetime of the bulb through lower electricity bills. An ENERGY STAR® CFL, for example, saves about $30 over the lifetime of the bulb.
Replacing incandescent or CFL bulbs with LED bulbs LEDs range from $25 to $60 for small bulbs,17 but their efficiency and lifetime provide longer term savings. LEDs are currently available for certain types of lighting.
As new and emerging technologies, such as hybrid solar lighting, become commercially available, consumers will have more options for lighting indoor and outdoor spaces using less energy, resulting in lower GHG emissions. As these technologies improve and become more widely adopted, their costs are expected to decline.
Current Status
Behavioral changes to conserve energy from lighting are among the most important options for achieving emission reductions from lighting, and many of these opportunities can be realized without adopting new technology at all (for example, by turning off the lights when they are not in use). When artificial lighting is necessary, many efficient lighting products are currently available. Switching incandescent bulbs for CFLs, for example, is both accessible and affordable. McKinsey & Company’s Pathways to a Low Carbon Economy also projects significant savings over the lifetime of the bulb by switching from outdated florescent tube bulbs to more efficient models.
In addition to those technologies that are now widely available, a variety of new and emerging highly efficient lighting systems are currently under development to improve the technology and reduce production costs. Some technologies that are promising but not yet commercially viable, include:
Hybrid Solar Lighting (HSL).
The technology has existed for decades, but cost considerations have thus far made widespread implementation infeasible. Currently, at least 25 facilities in the United States have installed HSL systems. Researchers are still trying to develop lower-cost systems that are marketable on a wider basis. Most research has been undertaken at the Oak Ridge National Laboratories in conjunction with U.S. DOE.
Light emitting Diodes (LEDs)/Solid-state Lighting. U.S. DOE has developed a multi-year strategy to advance the research, development, and deployment of solid-state lighting technology for applications beyond the current niche opportunities for LEDs. DOE’s program includes public- and a private-sector participants, and focus areas include basic and applied research, product development, manufacturing and commercial support, and standards development.
Obstacles to Further Development or Deployment
The obstacles to increasing conservation and improving efficiency for lighting are similar to those faced by buildings broadly. These barriers include upfront cost concerns, market barriers, public policy and planning barriers, and customer barriers (see Climate TechBook: Buildings Overview). Up-front costs pose a particularly notable barrier: while many efficient lighting technologies and practices pay for themselves over time, some of them – particularly cutting edge technologies –have significant up-front costs that consumers, businesses, or municipalities may be unable or unwilling to pay. Payback periods also vary in length, and building occupants may be reluctant to install efficient lighting technologies if they will be vacating the building before they can reap the full benefits of these technologies (while new occupants would realize benefits immediately). Certain lighting technologies face unique challenges, including the following:
Sensors/Lighting Control
Sensors are not always able to detect and match the needs of the occupant. This is because sensors react to different wavelengths and because they are often located far from the area of occupancy. For example, photosensors are often located on the ceiling and cannot necessarily gauge lighting needs closer to the ground.
The Enigin LESS range of lighting controls is so advanced that these challenges have been overcome and useful, workable light controls are now available.
Motion and occupancy sensors are not widely utilized because of logistical difficulties and consumer preference. Implementation in existing structures can be problematic because of the need for new fixtures, other wiring problems, and initial costs. Occupants may also object to automatic switch-off technology if it is poorly installed and is prone to premature switching; this can be remedied by more careful installation.22
Compact Fluorescent Lamps
Skepticism about the quality of CFL bulbs has deterred many consumers. Because many older lighting fixtures were designed for use with incandescent bulbs, the use of CFLs in these fixtures may result in poorer quality or a shorter lifespan, or they may not work at all. Many newer fixtures are able to accommodate CFLs. Moreover, manufacturers have been able to address other technical problems with early CFL models, including the start-up time, buzzing sounds, and less-appealing color temperature (a measurement that refers to the hue of light). Newer models can start in less than a second, are nearly noiseless, and are available in a variety of color temperatures.
Concerns about mercury may be a deterrent to some consumers. CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury in each bulb—less than 1/100 of the amount in an older thermometer.23 Notably, because mercury is emitted in the coal-burning process, the use of incandescent bulbs in areas powered by coal-fired generation results in mercury emissions that far exceed those of a CFL, particularly if the CFL is recycled.24
Policy Options to Help Promote Lighting Efficiency
Because lighting efficiency can be improved through many different technologies, a broad set of policies is needed to spur the development of new, highly-efficient technologies as well as to promote the adoption of existing efficient ones. Lighting standards are an important policy for driving innovation in lighting efficiency. The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007, for instance, contains mandates for energy efficiency standards for incandescent bulbs; these standards phase out incandescent bulbs unless they meet a certain efficiency standard. Lighting manufacturers have since created more efficient versions of the incandescent bulb, recognizing the popularity of incandescents and the policy-driven need for efficiency. While these more efficient incandescent bulbs have not approached the level of efficiency that is possible with CFLs, the phase-out of inefficient incandescent bulbs from these federal standards and the subsequent development of more efficient technology has illustrated the role federal standards can play in driving innovation.
Other policies can facilitate the adoption of efficient existing lighting technology. Loan programs and tax credits are two examples of policies that can enable people to opt for more efficient lighting as opposed to less efficient lighting options with a lower up-front cost.
Broader building policies can also inspire building owners, managers, and occupants to examine lighting systems and practices in order to reduce both costs and GHG emissions. Such policies include updated building codes, financial incentives, information and education campaigns, lead-by-example initiatives, and research and development assistance. For more information about each of these options, see Climate TechBook: Buildings Overview.
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