During the last decade installing LED lighting has become the most popular way for building owners and occupiers to increase the energy efficiency of their premises, according to a recent report from the Carbon Trust, which is now prompting take-up by offering specification advice and access to an accredited supplier network.
"A good LED product should be fit-and-forget". This is the verdict from the Carbon Trust, reporting on the popularity of energy efficient lighting earlier this year. However, for many building owners, it's not as simple as that and getting the right advice is not always simple.
The argument in favour of LED lighting is clear. The technology is improving all the time, with LEDs capable of drastically reducing power requirements while maintaining or improving on existing lighting performance, whether that lighting is incandescent, fluorescent, metal halide or sodium. The Carbon Trust estimates that the best returns are gained from LEDs where operating hours are highest. In office buildings where lighting is required for 3,000 hours or more each year, the return on investment can be less than five years, especially if lighting is controlled effectively either by a building management system or by conscientious occupants.
However, replacement of traditional lighting with LEDs is still far from universal - even where there is a clear case for switching from one to the other. This is partly down to lack of awareness of the energy performance benefits among building owners. However, the biggest hurdle to specifying LEDs is knowing where to go for a reliable, effective energy efficient lighting solution.
The Carbon Trust has stepped in and is now providing comprehensive specifications for a number of clients. To date, more than 1,500 energy efficient lighting projects have been reviewed, valued at a total of £38 million.
Compliance365 is an independent energy consultancy. We provide advice and guidance on all our services; how to save energy; how to save money on your energy bills; and ultimately how to become more energy efficient. Our aim is to be as cost effective and flexible as possible for our clients.
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