21 Feb 2012 01:02:24
Green Shoots - the eco benefits of using LED lighting
We’re all used to the idea of having light available at the flick of a switch, but the cost of that convenience is beginning to hurt in higher energy prices and a growing appreciation that we need to act far more ‘sustainably’ if we’re to give future generations any hope at all.
Lighting is an on-going energy cost for most activity, whether it be in the domestic, commercial, leisure or industrial sectors, and there is a pressing need to find ways of reducing the carbon footprint created by lighting use. Which brings us to the introduction of the LED for lighting.
Why LED lights? Energy-saving LED lights represent an important addition to our ‘green’ toolbox. LEDs provide a more flexible lighting solution than fluorescent sources, which can be too bulky for some purposes – particularly display and effects lighting. The relatively small size of the LED has meant a wide range of new and effective light sources, including Bulb LEDs, replacing conventional filament lamp and small, efficient display lamps that are removing the need to use costly, energy-heavy, tungsten halogen lamps.
Dimmable LED light bulbs for the home and commercial installation mean that LED lighting design can be done confidently, without feeling that there is some ‘green compromise’ that has to be made in the way that we expect lighting to work.
Finally, we’re seeing the beginning of joined-up thinking in terms of energy usage and energy creation. Renewable energy sources work best when energy performance is at it’s most efficient. LEDs can deliver small amounts of light when that is all that is required, but they also deliver energy-efficient packages at higher lighting levels.
At the end of each of our blogs, we’ll be offering you:
Energy Conservation Tips – Only Use it WHEN You Need It!
We’ve all seen office buildings ablaze with light all through the night, even though there’s no one there. Its unnecessary and careless and doesn’t have to be that way. Switch off those lights when you don’t need them!
