Recent studies reveal that over 20% of the nation's electricity consumption is absorbed into various types of lighting products and systems. Currently, a majority of America's electric lighting depends on either incandescent bulbs or fluorescent electric lamps for illumination. Within the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, the potential impact of advanced lighting technologies upon energy conservation is great.
Energy Efficiency Tip
Although most lights in commercial buildings are fluorescent, incandescent light bulbs serve about 20% of commercial lighted floor space and account for nearly 40% of commercial lighting energy use. Where possible, replace 20 to 150 watt incandescents with compact fluorescents of 7 to 18 watts.
Cost Savings Tip
Lighting costs can be reduced by replacing traditional lighting with high efficiency fluorescents. If specular reflectors are installed with energy-efficient fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts, lighting costs can be reduced as much as 70%—a good return on your investment!
Maintenance Tip
Proper maintenance of lighting helps improve energy efficiency, save money, and improve lighting conditions. Illumination can be reduced 25 to 50%, or more, when looking at the combined effect of equipment age and dirt depreciation. One maintenance approach is to relamp in groups. This can reduce operational costs, while keeping illumination levels at design levels.
Safety Tip
Lighting quality is important to the health, productivity and safety of workers. Improper lighting can cause rapid fatigue, headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, dry and irritated eyes, neck and back pain, sensitivity to light, double vision, and other problems. Use task lighting, as appropriate, to avoid over lighting less used areas and to focus lighting where needed.