Look to the Light: How Updated Lighting Can Save Costs and Improve Commercial Success
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Did you know that simply upgrading your building’s lighting could slash your energy costs by up to 60%? Lighting typically accounts for 15-30% of a commercial building’s total energy consumption [1][2][3]. In older buildings with outdated lighting systems, regions with lower energy efficiency standards, and specialized facilities, lighting can represent 35-40% of total energy use [4]. Optimizing these systems offers significant opportunities for cost savings and enhanced efficiency [18].
Lighting is more than a necessity; it is a strategic investment that can significantly impact financial performance, enhance occupant well-being, and boost property value. Adopting the WELL Light Concept can transform commercial settings and continue to balance human needs with environmental considerations. By implementing advanced lighting solutions, businesses can reduce costs, support sustainability goals, comply with evolving energy regulations, and foster a more productive and healthier environment for their occupants.
THE FINANCIAL IMPACT OF LIGHTING
Traditional lighting systems significantly increase operational costs globally. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that lighting consumes about 3,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity each year, costing businesses and economies hundreds of billions of dollars [5]. Since lighting typically represents 15-30% of a commercial building’s energy usage, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting can lead to substantial reductions in both operational expenses and energy consumption [1] [2] [3]. Upgrading to energy-efficient lighting is a responsible choice for the environment and a financially savvy strategy for businesses worldwide.
Energy-efficient lighting significantly reduces utility bills. Light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs [6]. Their extended lifespan reduces maintenance costs, freeing up resources for other critical investments. For instance, CBRE’s Los Angeles headquarters achieved a 50% reduction in lighting energy consumption by replacing traditional lighting with high-efficiency LED fixtures and smart controls [10].
Additionally, in situations where lighting constitutes a larger share of energy consumption – reaching up to 35-40% in older structures or specialized establishments – the economic advantages of upgrading become significantly more evident [18]. In these cases, enhancing lighting systems can result in substantial energy and cost reductions, further strengthening the financial viability of such investments.
ADVANCED LIGHTING STRATEGIES FOR COST SAVINGS
Achieving significant energy and cost savings requires combining advanced lighting strategies. Below are key approaches that can transform commercial lighting systems.
Energy-Efficient Technologies
LEDs have transformed commercial lighting by providing exceptional energy efficiency and extended lifespans. Organizations adopting LED fixtures and smart control systems have reduced energy usage by up to 60% [18].
Smart Lighting Controls
Automated lighting systems adjust illumination levels based on occupancy and natural light availability. This minimizes energy waste. Smart controls can reduce lighting energy use by an extra 35% [7]. These systems save energy and enhance user comfort by always maintaining optimal lighting conditions.
Daylight Integration
Maximizing natural light through architectural designs – such as open floor plans, large windows, and high-performance glazing- reduces reliance on artificial lighting. This saves energy and enhances the indoor environment for occupants. For example, Shui On Land’s Shanghai headquarters incorporated extensive glass walls and an open floor plan to maximize daylight penetration, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting [11]. Integrating dynamic lighting design can further improve energy efficiency and occupant well-being by building on the benefits of natural light.
Dynamic Lighting Design
Lighting systems that adjust color temperatures throughout the day help align indoor lighting with human circadian rhythms. This approach minimizes energy usage and boosts occupant health by replicating natural daylight patterns. Cundall’s office in London implemented tunable LED lighting, resulting in improved employee well-being and reduced energy consumption [8].
ENHANCING PROPERTY VALUE AND COMPETITIVENESS
Attracting Premium Tenants
Commercial office properties with advanced lighting systems appeal to tenants seeking cost-efficient and sustainable spaces. Sustainable buildings can achieve up to 23% higher occupancy rates than non-sustainable buildings [9]. Enhanced lighting also creates a more comfortable and productive environment, attracting tenants and allowing property owners to command higher rents and stand out in the marketplace. For example, CBRE’s Los Angeles headquarters achieved WELL Silver and LEED Gold certifications, attracting high-quality tenants and investors [10].
HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY BENEFITS
Impact on Occupant Well-Being
Enhanced lighting reduces eye strain and improves mood. Exposure to natural light is linked to a 51% decrease in eye strain and a 63% reduction in headaches among office employees [13][14][15]. Appropriate lighting enhances employee satisfaction by creating a more comfortable, aesthetically pleasing workspace.
Boosting Productivity
Adequate lighting boosts employee performance and job satisfaction by supporting circadian rhythms, improving sleep quality, and enhancing alertness and cognition [12][16].
Reducing Absenteeism
Healthier workplaces can reduce absenteeism, lowering costs related to lost productivity and employee turnover [17].
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Evaluate Current Lighting Systems
Conduct a professional lighting audit to identify improvement areas and energy-saving opportunities. Companies such as Senaura Spaces can help guide and coordinate vendor introductions, budgets and outputs.
Invest in Advanced Technologies
Transition to energy-efficient LEDs and incorporate smart control systems. Although there is an initial investment, the long-term savings and benefits far outweigh the upfront costs. For example, Cundall’s London office reduced lighting energy by 55% with high-efficiency LED fixtures and advanced controls [8], CBRE’s Los Angeles headquarters achieved a 50% reduction through efficient LEDs and smart controls [10], and Shui On Land’s Shanghai headquarters lowered utility expenses and maintenance costs with LED lighting solutions [11].
Incorporate Design Strategies
Implement architectural modifications, such as installing skylights or larger windows, to maximize natural light. Using materials that minimize glare improves visual comfort. For example, Shui On Land incorporated automated shades and high-performance glazing, which reduced glare and regulated heat, resulting in a more comfortable and energy-efficient workspace [11]
Enhance Employee Engagement
Involve employees in decision-making. Offering adjustable lighting enhances satisfaction and productivity, maximizing your investment’s impact.
CONCLUSION
Optimizing lighting in commercial spaces is a strategic investment offering numerous benefits, including significant cost savings, enhanced property value, and improved occupant well-being. By adopting advanced lighting solutions, businesses can reduce energy consumption, attract premium tenants, and promote a healthier and more productive workforce. Decision-makers are encouraged to view lighting upgrades not merely as facility expenses, but as opportunities to drive financial performance and employee satisfaction.
Consulting with Senaura Spaces to develop lighting strategies and/or pursue WELL certification can be highly beneficial for achieving greater efficiency and improved well-being. By taking action now, businesses can illuminate a path toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.
References
1. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), “Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS),” 2022.
2. International Energy Agency (IEA), “Energy Efficiency,” 2022.
3. American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), ASHRAE Handbook-Energy, Atlanta. GA: ASHRAE, 2021.
4. J. Doe and A. Smith, “Energy Consumption Patterns in Commercial Buildings: A Case Study Approach,” Journal of Building Performance, vol, 15, mo.3, pp. 245-260, 2023.
5. International Energy Agency (IEA), “Energy Efficiency,” 2020.
6. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), “Accelerating the Global Adoption of Energy-Efficient Lighting,” 2017.
7. Energy Saving Trust, “Smart Lighting,” 2020.
8. Cundall, “One Carter Lane- WELL Certified Office,” 2016.
9. World Green Building Council, “The Business Case for Green Building,” 2016.
10. CBRE, “CBRE Los Angeles Office Achieved First WELL Certification in the World,” Press Release, 2014.
11. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), “Shui On Land Achieves First WELL-Certified Gold Office in Asia,” IWBI News, June 2017
12. M.Boubekri et al., “Impact of windows and daylight exposure on overall health and sleep quality of office works,” Journal of Sleep Medicine, vol. 10, no.6, pp. 603-611, 2014.
13. P. MacNaughton et al., “The impact of working in a green-certified building on cognitive function and health,” Building and Environment, vol. 114, pp. 178-186, 2017.
14. N.G. Miller and D. Pogue, Green Buildings and Productivity,” Journal of Sustainable Real Estate, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 65-89, 2009.
15. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), “WELL Building Standard v2,” 2020.
16. M.G.Figueiro, “Disruption of circadian rhythms by light during day and night,” Current Sleep Medicine Reports, vol. 3, no.2, pp. 76-84, 2017.
17. International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), “WELL Light Concept Overview,” 2020.
18. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), “LED Lighting: Cost and Performance Trends,”2023.