The use and environmental impact of daylighting

Abstract

With an expanding population and finite natural resources, it is critical to develop and implement energy-saving solutions that meet the needs of society without impacting future sustainability. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is an effort to promote the selection and use of high-efficiency products. Within LEED, the use of energy-efficient lighting and daylighting (the use of natural sunlight for indoor lighting applications) is a focus. Daylighting is an area of significant research within the lighting industry and one of the largest areas of interest for those pursuing LEED certification. If designed and implemented correctly, daylighting can deliver environmentally neutral lighting to interior spaces. Once a daylighting system is installed, there is no ongoing impact as there is no pollution, no sources to maintain, no energy drawn, and little fixture maintenance required over the life of the product. There are a variety of daylighting designs in the marketplace, but limited information on how or where they are best utilized. If not properly utilized daylighting can result in ineffective lighting and unsatisfied consumers. Ineffective daylighting designs may cause users to revert back to more environmentally taxing lighting solutions. Additionally, ineffective implementation of daylighting can create a negative view of efficient lighting. This paper evaluates the design and implementation of various daylighting systems. It discusses three primary designs: skylights, solar concentrators, and tubular daylighting devices. Each design has unique uses and limitations. This paper is a brief guide to assist in the understanding and selection of daylighting technologies.