Lighting

Lighting consumes close to 35 percent of electricity used in U.S. commercial buildings

According to EPA’s Energy Star program, lighting consumes close to 35 percent of the electricity used in U.S. commercial buildings and affects other building systems through its electrical requirements and the waste heat it produces. Upgrading lighting systems with efficient light sources, fixtures, and controls can reduce lighting energy use, improve the visual environment, and affect the sizing of HVAC and electrical systems. The Green Proving Ground program is investigating the effectiveness of technologies such as Occupancy Responsive Lighting Solutions and Integrated Daylighting Systems in reducing lighting energy usage while maintaining occupant satisfaction.

Preliminary Technology Assessments

LED Retrofit Luminaire 2012 >

This technology is designed to upgrade existing recessed fluorescent troffer luminaires to LED luminaires.

Wireless Lighting Control System, 2012 >

TThis technology enables switches, ballasts, fixtures, and sensors from a variety of manufacturers to communicate as a single system by using wireless area controllers. The technology enables building operators to tailor lighting control to building characteristics and occupancy patterns more easily and cost effectively than incumbent technologies offering similar levels of control.