Why is Retrofit Lighting the Smart Choice for Energy Efficiency?
If you are looking to upgrade your old, incandescent lighting, you may have heard of retrofit lighting. This is where new lighting components are fitted into your existing system, giving you all the benefits of modern LEDs without the hassle of installing a completely new system. Retrofitted lighting works with all kinds of interior lighting, including downlights, emergency lights, linear systems and more. Here are some of the top reasons why retrofitting LEDs is a great choice for energy efficiency.
Why Energy Efficiency is Important?
Saving energy is key to reducing carbon emissions, as producing electricity still relies to some extent on burning fossil fuels. The problem with this is that using fossil fuels increases greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which is a leading cause of climate change.
The cost of energy is also rising, and many people have noticed the effect on their energy bills. Conserving energy where possible reduces the need to use fossil fuels, while also saving consumers money on their energy bills. Changing to LED lighting is one of the most effective ways to make a positive difference in the environment and to commercial finances.
Energy Savings
One of the biggest benefits of swapping old lighting for modern LEDs is that it can save you a significant amount in energy consumption, and therefore lower your energy bills. LED lighting uses far less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, yet can produce the same amount of light. LEDs also have a far longer lifespan than conventional lighting sources.
Environmentally Friendly Materials
Older types of lighting, such as fluorescent lights, contain harmful substances, including mercury and other heavy metals. Improper disposal of these materials can result in soil contamination and environmental damage. The advantage of LED lighting is that it does not contain any of these toxic substances, so if they are discarded at the end of their lifecycle, this will not cause any harmful effects.
Less Waste
As LEDs last longer than traditional lighting, less waste ends up in landfills. Not only that, but modern lighting is more likely to be repairable, so it can be refurbished instead of being discarded. Having modern lighting retrofitted into existing fixings also means that these are not disposed of, furthering the reduction of waste materials.
Efficient Fitting
Retrofitting LED lighting is quick to achieve, and is managed using existing light fittings. This means that businesses can enjoy all the energy-saving benefits in little time, and with minimal disruption. As a result, even more businesses will be encouraged to follow suit, further enhancing the environmental benefits of modern lighting.
Greater Control
Modern LED lighting can be paired with smart technology or sensors, giving people more control over how their lighting is used. For example, LEDs can be dimmed to help lower energy use, while sensors can be used to ensure that lights only come on once the surrounding light levels become low. Another example is sensing whether a room is occupied or not, switching off lights when a room is empty and turning them on only when a movement sensor is triggered. In having greater control over how lighting is used, consumers have more options when it comes to lowering their energy consumption.
Contributes to Environmental Goals
Sustainability is a key issue across many different industries, and many businesses are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Retrofitting lighting is one method for businesses to demonstrate to customers their commitment to making changes in this area, as well as meeting their sustainability targets.
Meets Environmental Targets
A common topic in the news is the ongoing debate surrounding sustainability. To meet government targets on emissions, regulations are being enforced to ensure all industries lower their impact on the environment. Choosing sustainable lighting helps businesses to fulfil these regulations as well as being able to adapt to new ones.
Compatible with Renewable Energy
Another advantage of upgrading to LEDs is that they are commonly teamed with renewable energy, such as solar panels. Not only does this result in energy savings, but there is also the opportunity to sell any extra generated back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) program. The option to earn money while reducing energy consumption makes it a compelling solution.
The Use of Retrofit Lighting
With so many benefits, more businesses are looking to swap to energy-efficient light sources. As the price of energy continues to rise, this process is likely to accelerate. This simple transition has significant potential in helping people to reduce their energy usage, while saving money in the process. Moreover, with the added benefit of being environmentally friendly, retrofitted lighting is a winner for both the consumer/business and the planet.
