LED lighting has been around since the end of the twentieth century. Originally, it simply showed when switches were on. However, production innovations produced powerful bright white lights. By the early 2000s LED lamps and luminaires were replacing inefficient incandescent and fluorescent lamps.
Changing lighting design
The uptake of energy efficient LEDs has changed lighting design, installation, and lifecycle management. It has altered how we plan and install lighting solutions. The products and their uses have become more sophisticated. We are now focusing on smart controls, lighting to suit humans, and the principles of a circular economy.
The LED business case
Early adoption of LED lighting in the UK was based on lower energy use and longer lifespan. Compared to older style lighting, LEDs last much longer and more than halve energy use. These figures alone made a strong business case, based on return on investment (ROI).
Reducing energy and maintenance costs was also emphasised in amendments to Building Regulation Part L requirements. International regulation has phased out older inefficient lighting. Combined with rising electricity prices, LEDs are now the preferred choice for commercial, industrial, and residential uses.
For companies like MSE the priority is large-scale retrofits and lighting upgrades with improved controls, emergency lighting and compliance.
The future for LED lighting
There’s plenty more to achieve through modern uses of LED lighting. In addition to carefully tailored designs to suit human needs and business uses, modern LED installations are also smart. They include automated controls, sensors, and connectivity. Lighting integration is ideal for larger building management strategies.
Networked LED lighting can provide automatic dimming based on movement, monitoring and management. Lighting installation projects now involve software integration and interfaces with other building systems.
Lighting designed for people. LEDs can now deliver a wide range of colours and variable brightness. Adjustments throughout the day can help to improve employee productivity and wellbeing. This involves advanced controls, careful design and detailed planning.
Sustainability. Energy efficiency is one factor when considering LED lighting. Reduced maintenance, longer product life and waste minimisation also matter. However, when LEDs reach the end of their life, there’s still the challenge of waste material and disposal. Modular LEDs now allow for replacement drivers and control gear without removing the whole fitting. This creates new opportunities for maintenance, refurbishment, and upgrades to existing installations.
Closer integration with smart controls, improved information and replacement and recycling options are all on the horizon. The MSE team is always happy to discuss ways to create intelligent and sustainable lighting solutions.
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