Innovation with lighting
A good example of innovation is LED lights. Five years ago, they were not considered ‘ready for prime time’. Indeed, early LED lighting was known for a high failure rate.
Today, however, is a different story – the technology and reliability have improved dramatically. Many businesses are now installing well-known LED brands that can reduce lighting costs by up to 80%.
>The developments in this space are getting better still. One major company has developed a light bulb prototype that they claim cuts energy use in half whilst doubling light output. Given that an estimated 19% of the world’s energy consumption is due to lighting, this technology breakthrough could significantly cut lighting bills.[1]
Innovation is not just limited to lighting. There could well be groundbreaking energy efficiency developments in your industry that you’re not yet aware of. Being on the lookout for such opportunities can sometimes make a real difference to your energy bills.
Philips Electronics – innovation in high bay lighting
Previously, LED high bay lighting had a reputation for not being able to cope with high temperatures in rooftop areas. This is set to change thanks to an innovative new product from Philips whose thermal design gives it high temperature resistance.
Compared to the standard 400W conventional metal halide high bay lighting, their new ‘GreenUp LED Highbay’ can reduce energy use by 75% whilst still giving out the same level of light output.
Launched in March 2015, these new lights contain an occupancy sensor that turns off the lights when nobody is in the workspace below. It also has a daylight sensor that can vary the lighting levels depending on how much daylight is coming into the building.
What makes this lighting so innovative is that it can also be wirelessly programmed into zones. This helps to balance comfort and safety with energy saving. Other companies will no doubt release similar products in the future, so if your company uses high bay lighting, it’s worth keeping an eye on this space.