Improving Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings by Upgrading to LED Lighting

As a building manager looking to reduce energy costs, upgrading to LED lighting represents one of the most impactful steps you can take. By replacing outdated lighting technologies like incandescent and fluorescent lamps with LED fixtures, commercial building owners can realize major improvements in energy efficiency and cost savings.

Why LED Lighting Upgrades Make Sense for Commercial Buildings

LEDs use around 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer than fluorescent lighting. This enables you to dramatically lower electricity consumption and maintenance costs over time. Some key benefits of switching to LEDs include:

• Lower energy bills - LEDs require significantly less power. This directly reduces your monthly electricity costs.

• Longer lifespan - Properly installed LEDs can have a functional life of 50,000 hours or more. This minimizes the labor costs of frequent bulb replacements.

• Reduced maintenance costs - With fewer lamp replacements needed, you’ll save on maintenance expenses over the years.

• Improved light quality - LEDs provide better distribution and more focused light. This enhances the visual environment for occupants.

• Dimmable - Most LED fixtures are dimmable, allowing you to further optimize light use and energy savings.

• Safety - LEDs operate at cooler temperatures, reducing the risk of accidental burns and fire hazards.

For most buildings, the cost savings realized from an LED retrofit will outweigh the upfront equipment and installation costs in 2-3 years or less.

Steps for Upgrading Your Building's Lighting to LED

If you want to upgrade your commercial space to utilize LED lighting, consider the following steps:

Audit Existing Lighting Infrastructure

• Conduct a thorough audit of all existing lighting fixtures, lamps, and controls.

• Note the quantity, type, age, and condition of the lighting components at your property.

• Identify any obsolete or inefficient lighting that needs replacement.

Evaluate Lighting Needs

• Consider the purpose of each space and the required light levels, color temperature, etc. This will help define the appropriate LED replacement fixtures.

• Interview occupants to understand any concerns with existing lighting. Address these needs in upgrades.

Create a Lighting Retrofit Plan

• Use the audit details and lighting needs evaluation to put together a full lighting plan:

  • Fixture locations/descriptions

  • Specifications like light output, color temperature, etc.

  • Energy consumption calculations

  • Labor requirements

  • Budget for equipment, installation, and disposal

Select the Right LED Fixtures and Controls

• Choose ENERGY STAR certified LED fixtures to ensure quality and energy performance.

• Match light output and distribution to application. Consider optical performance.

• Incorporate advanced lighting controls like occupancy sensors, dimmers, and daylight harvesting where applicable.

Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor

• Have a qualified electrician or lighting company handle tricky aspects like:

  • Safe removal of old fixtures

  • Electrical wiring

  • Installation of new LED fixtures

Dispose of Old Lighting Properly

• LED retrofits can create a lot of lighting waste. Ensure environmentally responsible disposal.

• Recycle metal, glass, and other recyclable lamp components where possible.

Verify Performance

• Upon project completion, verify the LED lighting is performing as expected and providing desired light levels in each space.

• Continue monitoring energy usage to confirm the efficiency gains. Identify any outstanding issues.

With smart planning and execution, upgrading your commercial building to utilize LED lighting can significantly enhance energy efficiency, light quality, ease of maintenance, and cost savings. The long operational lifespan of LEDs ensures these benefits will persist for years to come.