Lighting energy efficiency

Energy-efficient lighting options are improving all the time and can be used to replace almost all traditional lamps. Upgrading your lighting system can give you:

• more control over how you light individual areas
• less maintenance
• lower running costs
• improved light quality

Install compact fluorescent tubes (CFLs)

Installing CFLs in place of more traditional tungsten light bulbs means:

• less time replacing bulbs - CFLs last up to eight times longer
• lower energy use - CFLs use 25 per cent of the energy for a similar light output

Install LED lighting

Light-emitting diode (LED) has the potential to deliver much greater energy and life cycle cost savings.

LEDs emit more lumens per watt than traditional incandescent light bulbs. The efficiency of LED lighting fixtures is not affected by shape and size, unlike fluorescent light bulbs or tubes.

Select energy-efficient alternatives

You can also replace traditional tubes with slimmer, more efficient versions - see lighting system design.

Upgrade luminaires

As part of installing more energy-efficient lamps, consider upgrading luminaires to more efficient fittings. These can increase the light provided without using more electricity - for example by using mirrors to reflect light into an area.

Upgrade equipment and systems

When you upgrade your lighting equipment and systems there are several actions you can take so that your lighting systems are better matched to:

• the layout of your premises
• the building's occupancy patterns
• the tasks you undertake

These include introducing zoning lighting and controls like sensors and timers.

Building regulation requirements

Building regulations require a certain number of energy efficient lights to be fitted. This applies to:

• new dwellings
• extensions or material changes to existing dwellings
• rewiring of existing lighting systems

An energy efficient light fitting must consist of:

• the lamp
• control gear
• appropriate housing, reflector, shade or diffuser

Tubular fluorescent and compact fluorescent lighting fittings meet this requirement. Tungsten filament and tungsten halogen lamps do not.