Total Lighting - March 2016

opinion
We can’t see into
the future, but we can
clearly see the trends
taking off – and we
are only just starting
to benefit from its
potential’
CON TACT Easilume www.EasiLume.com
daylight. It’s also completely controllable, and
versatile. LEDs can be fully dimmable, and are
perfect for use in a ‘smart’ building. They can be
programmed into daylight harvesting schemes,
automatically adjusting to the amount of natural
light available, and keeping the level of light in the
workspace constant. This greatly reduces energy
demand when the sun is shining.
With modern architecture’s extensive use of
glass in iconic buildings, this feature is becoming
more and more important.
Transforming every situation
In domestic situations, LEDs are adaptable and
versatile. Programmable lighting, once something
of a luxury, will become just another aspect of
technology we take for granted.
Rather than simply lighting our living spaces,
LEDs become part of the design, with colour and
timing used to create instant decorative effects.
Mobile phone technology means lighting can be
controlled remotely, offering not just a welcoming
light but, by giving the impression the house is
occupied, acting as a deterrent to burglars.
In both home and office, LEDs’ instant
on/off technology means lighting can be paired
with motion sensors, to be switched on only
when needed.
The impact on security for both commercial
and domestic applications is huge. Outdoor motion
sensitive lights can alert home and business owners
to the presence of intruders, while lights that come
on as you walk through the premises are reassuring
and economical.
Education and support
LED lighting provides significant economic,
aesthetic, and health benefits in any situation
- commercial, schools, hospitals, or domestic.
However many contractors still aren’t comfortable
talking about LED, and its broader benefits.
It’s a lot of new information to take in. Old
methods and calculations don’t apply any more. It’s
not what they trained on, and some don’t care to
deal with unfamiliar technology.
It’s important that suppliers should help
contractors become confident and comfortable
with LED, so they can explain the benefits to
their customers.
Given all the facts, it’s a simple equation:
LED = energy efficiency + increased employee
productivity + lower maintenance costs.
The average project will pay for itself in fewer
than five years - it’s a safe investment.
I believe all lighting will be LED. We can’t see
into the future, but we can clearly see the trends
taking off – and we are only just starting to benefit
from its potential. ■
www.total-lighting.com • MARCH 2016 • 23