What is the best way to evaluate lighting systems for efficiency and cost-effectiveness?

2 Lighting cost-effectiveness

Lighting cost-effectiveness is the balance between the initial and operating costs of a lighting system and the benefits it provides. It is measured in terms of payback period, return on investment, or life cycle cost analysis. The payback period is the time it takes for the energy savings to equal the initial cost. The return on investment is the percentage of profit or loss from the initial cost over a certain period. The life cycle cost analysis is the total cost of owning and operating a lighting system over its useful life, including installation, maintenance, energy, and disposal costs.

3 Lighting standards and codes

Lighting standards and codes are sets of rules and guidelines that specify the minimum requirements for lighting quality, performance, and safety in different applications and sectors. They are developed by various organizations, such as governments, industry associations, or professional bodies. They can help you evaluate lighting systems by providing benchmarks and best practices for lighting design, installation, and operation. Some examples of lighting standards and codes are the ASHRAE 90.1, the IECC, the IESNA, and the NEC.

4 Lighting simulation and measurement

Lighting simulation and measurement are tools that can help you evaluate lighting systems by estimating or verifying their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Lighting simulation is the use of software or models to predict the lighting performance and energy consumption of a lighting system in a given space or scenario. Lighting measurement is the use of instruments or sensors to collect data on the lighting conditions and power consumption of a lighting system in a real or test environment. Both tools can help you compare different lighting options, identify potential problems, and optimize your lighting design.

6 Lighting evaluation checklist

When evaluating lighting systems for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, it's important to consider a few key points. First, determine the lighting needs and objectives of your project or space. Then, review the lighting standards and codes that apply to your project or space. After that, select the lighting sources, fixtures, and controls that match your needs and objectives. Additionally, use lighting simulation or measurement tools to estimate or verify the lighting performance and energy consumption of your lighting system. It's also important to calculate the lighting cost-effectiveness using payback period, return on investment, or life cycle cost analysis methods. Finally, perform lighting maintenance or retrofit actions to improve the efficiency and quality of your lighting system.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?