Businesses are under increasing pressure to reduce operational costs in the face of the on-going energy crisis. Colin Lawson, Head of Sales & Marketing at Tamlite Lighting, says small changes can make a big difference with electrical contractors set to play a pivotal role.
If recent reports are to be believed, businesses are set to experience the impact of the volatile energy market for at least the next two years. For those responsible for the management and operation of buildings, it is causing a huge headache.
The government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme was introduced at the beginning of October, but a Treasury-led review will explore a new approach from April 2023. The emphasis will be on incentivising businesses to become more energy efficient. This sends a clear message that organisations need to identify and implement energy efficiency measures, to protect themselves against soaring operational costs.
Fortunately, there are some relatively straightforward steps that can be taken to achieve this and reviewing core building services should be at the top of the priority list. Lighting is fundamental to any business. Whether it is an office building, retail premises or industrial warehouse, having the correct lighting will make a big difference to reducing energy demand and operational costs.
From an electrical contractor’s perspective, there is a clear opportunity to talk to customers about making the move from traditional lighting types to highly efficient LED-based systems.
Making the case for LED
Sadly, not all businesses are yet aware of the benefits of LED lighting. For those working with the as-yet-unconverted, it doesn’t take long to construct a compelling case for them to review their lighting. The good news is that such upgrades are easy to do and can be achieved in return for relatively small investments.
By replacing outdated lighting with modern LED systems, coupled with intelligent control systems, buildings can be made more efficient, generating savings anywhere between 60 and 80%. LED luminaires also have a life expectancy that is 20 times longer than traditional bulbs or tubes, and can function for over 50,000 hours before having to be replaced. With less maintenance this also offers significant savings.
Installing lighting control systems will add a level of flexibility that is also beneficial for businesses. For example, PIR sensors ensure that lights aren’t used when the room is unoccupied by dimming or switching off the fittings. Equally, daylight dimming reduces the output of the luminaires when natural light levels increase. As well as providing a more organic lighting design that is beneficial for building occupants, it also ensures that energy isn’t wasted.
Beyond that, installing controls and sensors allows businesses to make informed decisions about how their buildings are being used, and make changes to lighting schedules and settings. This can dramatically reduce energy consumption as the lights are only on when needed.
No business can afford to pay the price of inaction when it comes to energy, and lighting is the perfect place to make positive changes. Whilst retrofitting buildings with modern, efficient lighting could be seen by many as a complex and time-consuming affair, this isn’t the case.
Re-thinking how we talk about light to our customers is key, and if you need help, we’re here to provide guidance to a lighting solution that reduces energy demand, and saves money, all within budget.
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