Figures from NASA state that since the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period the average global temperature has increased by 1.36°C. Climate change threatens the future of the planet and its inhabitants, so to prevent the worst damage, global net emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂) caused by humans need to fall by about 45 percent from 2010 levels by 2030 – reaching net zero by around 2050. The UK’s two million non-domestic buildings are at the very heart of meeting this challenge.

Consumer society

It’s estimated that businesses spend between 15-30 per cent of their total energy costs on lighting. By providing an energy efficient option that has long life, low carbon emissions and high-quality illumination, LED lighting has revolutionised the lit environment. Its benefits are now widely recognised and with prices declining to a point where it is the economical choice in almost every application, more and more organisations are making the switch.While LED lighting technology offers clear environmental benefits, there is more that can be done. Integrating LED luminaires with lighting controls enables sensors to determine when and where lighting is needed in a space. A lighting control system allows for precise monitoring and management of light usage and can incorporate features like daylight harvesting. This not only optimises energy efficiency but also supports compliance with BS EN 17037, which provides guidance on utilising daylight to illuminate interior spaces.

Standard issue

Lighting control should be the rule rather than the exception in building design and BS EN 12464 emphasises the importance of designing lighting schemes tailored to specific tasks or activities. It encourages designers to consider all available lighting options, provides guidelines on the use of lighting controls and recommends illuminating spaces only when they are in use. Automatically switching off lighting when it’s not needed – whether due to an unoccupied space or sufficient ambient light – can lead to substantial energy savings.

Additionally, lighting control is essential for compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations, which mandates controlled or locally switched lighting. Beyond regulatory compliance, effective lighting control can improve a building’s ratings on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Display Energy Certificates (DECs), and it plays a crucial role in achieving certifications such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM).

Easy does it

With a wide range of options available, lighting control has become more accessible than ever. Leading modular systems offer straightforward connectivity, making them highly flexible and easy to install. Systems based on the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) protocol take this a step further by assigning a unique address to each luminaire, allowing for precise management of individual devices. These systems can be as simple as a single luminaire equipped with a driver and sensor.

Wireless systems are also gaining in popularity, especially in older or listed buildings, as they eliminate the need for additional wiring and minimise disruption to the building’s structure. In cases where asbestos is present, wireless solutions provide a safe method of installation without disturbing this potentially hazardous material.

Pre-programmed lighting configurations also offer the ability to create scenes that enhance a room’s characteristics, highlight key features and set the appropriate lighting levels for different times of day or specific events. Presence detectors can adjust light levels in corridors based on occupancy, gradually dimming or brightening lights according to natural light levels and automatically turning them off after a set period. Moreover, advanced control is possible on a zone-by-zone or even luminaire-by-luminaire basis, and LED luminaires can be seamlessly integrated with building management systems.

Getting the job done

Electrical contractors play a critical role in the installation of lighting control systems, ensuring that they meet both performance expectations and regulatory standards. When installing lighting controls, contractors must consider factors like the type of lighting fixtures, wiring configurations and the specific needs of the space to provide optimal illumination.

In addition to installation, electrical contractors may also have to handle the programming and troubleshooting of these systems. With the rise of automated building management systems, their expertise in configuring and maintaining advanced lighting controls is increasingly valuable. Contractors should also work closely with clients to understand their needs, ensuring that the controls are intuitive and meet the specific requirements of the space. For instance, in an office environment, controls might need to support varying levels of daylight and occupancy.

More than meets the eye

The benefits of lighting control extend beyond energy efficiency though. Controllable, adaptable lighting systems create more comfortable environments for people, leading to more productive working experiences and improvements in attention span, concentration and behaviour. According to the Building Research Establishment (BRE), people in Europe spend around 90 percent of their time indoors and it is therefore clear that putting wellbeing front and centre is vital.

As well as having a negative effect on an individual’s mood and stress levels, poor quality lighting can cause eyestrain, migraines and headaches, lethargy, irritability and low levels of concentration. A human-centric lighting solution enhances the circadian rhythm by automatically adjusting tone and colour –from warm white to daylight – according to available natural light. It factors in the time of day, the sun’s position and even the season – all of which contribute to improved productivity, increased motivation and reduced absenteeism due to illness.

Best foot forward

A much tougher line is being taken to encourage businesses to reduce their use of energy and unless there is a decrease in the overall levels of CO₂ being produced there will be more regulation to come. Building managers can address the issue by introducing lighting control systems that maximise the effectiveness of LED lighting and enhance the built environment, with electrical contractors playing a critical role in the installation and maintenance of these systems.

According to installeronline.co.uk