A new study concluded that retrofitting outdated commercial lighting individually with LEDs equipped with luminaire level lighting controls (LLLC) has the potential to save just as much energy as investing in a full commercial lighting redesign. Researchers from the University of Oregon and the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) studied a roughly 1,000-sq ft office space, analyzing the amount of energy saved when fluorescent lights were individually retrofitted with an LED equipped with LLLC compared to a complete redesign and upgrade of the lighting system.
The study found that 1:1 replacement saved between 50-74% in energy annually, compared to the 59% savings of a full redesign. 1:1 replacement can typically be about a third to half the cost. Along with the energy savings, this study also showed the quality of light in a 1:1 replacement scenario may be just as good as a full redesign.
The use of LLLC has grown over the years as a way save more energy by integrating daylight harvesting and occupancy sensors, and streamlining control into commercial lighting. LLLC fixtures can be grouped and regrouped wirelessly to configure spaces to changing occupant and operational needs in commercial spaces. Some LLLC systems can also integrate with HVAC system for greater granularity of control and real-time data.
The full research is available here: https://bit.ly/3jLb6qc