Laboratory Validation of Integrated Lighting Systems Retrofit Performance and Energy Savings

Jordan Shackelford,Cynthia Regnier,Paul Mathew,Travis Walter

doi:10.3390/en13133329

Abstract

Light-emitting diodes (LED) fixtures and lamps have emerged as leading technologies for general illumination and are a well-established energy efficiency retrofit measure in commercial buildings (from around 2% of installed fixtures and lamps in 2013 to 28% by 2020). Retrofit approaches that integrate elements, such as networked controls, daylight dimming, and advanced shade technologies lag in comparison. Integrated retrofits have been shown to increase savings over single end-use retrofits, but are perceived as higher complexity and risk. More validation of integrated lighting system performance is needed. This study presents results from laboratory testing of three packages combining fixtures, networked controls, task tuning, and daylight dimming, advanced shades, and lighting layout changes. We characterize performance in perimeter open-office zones, finding energy savings from 20% for daylight dimming and automated shades (no LED retrofit) to over 70% for LED retrofits with advanced controls and shades or lighting layout changes. We present some implementation details, including lessons learned from installation and commissioning in the laboratory setting. We also discuss cost-benefit analysis approaches for the types of packages presented, including the need to quantify and incorporate energy and non-energy benefits for advanced shades packages, which enhance occupant comfort but add significant cost.

Highlights

The landscape for efficient lighting retrofits has changed significantly in recent years.Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a high-efficacy light source for general illumination have overtaken fluorescent lighting as the most energy-efficient technology
These systems integrate well with solid-state, dimmable LED fixtures; so-called luminaire-level lighting controls with sensors on-board each fixture are offered by various vendors
LED lighting with no daylight dimming, manually operated venetian blinds

Summary

Introduction

The landscape for efficient lighting retrofits has changed significantly in recent years. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a high-efficacy light source for general illumination have overtaken fluorescent lighting as the most energy-efficient technology. The move to more efficient fluorescent sources (T12 lamps to T8 lamps, electronic ballasts), followed by the adoption of LEDs, has resulted in continually declining lighting energy usage intensity, from 4.1 kWh/ft2 /year (yr.). LEDs are a well-established energy efficiency retrofit option. Networked and cloud-connected lighting controls solutions have proliferated in the market. These systems integrate well with solid-state, dimmable LED fixtures; so-called luminaire-level lighting controls with sensors on-board each fixture are offered by various vendors.

Methods

Results

Conclusion