How to Reduce Your Commercial Building's Energy Costs With Efficient Lighting Upgrades

I run a commercial building and I'm always looking for ways to reduce my energy costs. Lighting accounts for a significant portion of a commercial building's energy use, so upgrading to more efficient lighting is one of the most impactful steps I can take to reduce my building's energy costs. Here's how I go about implementing lighting upgrades in my commercial building to maximize energy and cost savings.

Assessing My Current Lighting System

Before making any lighting changes, I start by thoroughly assessing my building's current lighting system. This allows me to identify problem areas and opportunities for savings.

• I conduct a full inventory of the lighting in my building, including the types of bulbs, number of fixtures, and wattages. I make note of which areas have outdated, inefficient lighting.

• I evaluate which areas are overlit and could potentially use fewer fixtures or lower wattage bulbs. Overlighting wastes energy.

• I check for lighting controls like occupancy sensors, daylighting sensors, and timers. Controls help reduce wasted lighting. I make note of areas that could benefit from new controls.

• I read recent electricity bills to analyze my current lighting energy use and costs. This provides a baseline to compare future energy savings against.

Researching Lighting Upgrade Options

Next, I research the latest energy efficient lighting options appropriate for a commercial building. Key options I look into include:

• LED lights - LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting. They last years longer than other bulb types.

• T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes - T5 and T8 tubes can be 50-70% more efficient than older T12 tubes.

• Occupancy sensors - Occupancy sensors turn lights off when spaces are unoccupied, reducing energy waste.

• Daylighting controls - Daylighting controls dim artificial lights when ample natural light is available, saving energy.

I consult with vendors and lighting designers to determine the best lighting upgrade solutions for each space in my building based on use, occupancy patterns, and daylighting.

Implementing the Lighting Retrofits and Upgrades

With my upgrade plan created, I'm ready to implement the lighting retrofits:

• I make lighting upgrades during off-hours or when spaces are unoccupied to minimize disruption.

• Vendors or electricians install the new energy efficient lighting and controls according to my plan's specifications.

• Permits and inspections are completed as required by local building codes.

• I dispose of old bulbs properly through hazardous waste channels, if necessary.

• For a large retrofit, upgrades may be phased in over time. I start with the most outdated and inefficient lighting first.

Verifying Energy Savings

Once the lighting upgrades are complete, I verify the results:

• I confirm all new lighting has been properly installed and functioning.

• I compare electricity bills before and after the retrofit to confirm the upgrade is producing expected energy and cost savings.

• If energy savings underperform, I re-evaluate the lighting system for any deficiencies and make adjustments to maximize savings.

• I continue monitoring energy usage regularly and adjust lighting as needed. Ongoing adjustments help sustain long-term efficiency.

With smart planning, savvy lighting choices, and proper installation, I'm able to substantially reduce my commercial building's lighting energy use and costs through upgrades. The lighting also improves visibility and safety throughout my building. By continuously monitoring my building's energy performance, I can maintain and optimize these savings over the long run.