Lighting Systems
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Lighting Systems #
Lighting Systems
Specific Term #
Lighting Systems
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Lighting systems refer to the infrastructure and components used to provide illumination in a space. They play a crucial role in energy consumption and efficiency, making them a key focus in energy auditing techniques. By understanding the different types of lighting systems and their components, energy auditors can assess energy usage, identify opportunities for improvement, and recommend energy-saving strategies to reduce overall consumption and costs.
Luminaires #
Luminaires
Specific Term #
Luminaires
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Luminaires are light fixtures that house and protect lamps, providing both functional and aesthetic lighting in a space. They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs to accommodate different lighting needs. Luminaires are essential components of lighting systems and are often assessed during energy audits to determine their energy efficiency and performance.
Ballasts #
Ballasts
Specific Term #
Ballasts
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Ballasts are devices used in lighting systems to regulate the electrical current flowing to fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps. They help control the starting and operation of these lamps, improving energy efficiency and lamp performance. Ballasts are critical components in lighting systems and are often examined during energy audits to ensure they are functioning properly and not wasting energy.
LED #
LED
Specific Term #
LED
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are energy-efficient lighting sources that are increasingly used in lighting systems due to their long lifespan, low energy consumption, and high lumen output. LEDs produce light by passing an electrical current through a semiconductor material, emitting light in a specific direction. Energy auditors often recommend replacing traditional light sources with LEDs to improve energy efficiency and reduce lighting costs.
Fluorescent #
Fluorescent
Specific Term #
Fluorescent
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Fluorescent lighting is a type of lighting system that uses fluorescent lamps to produce light. These lamps contain mercury vapor that emits ultraviolet light when an electrical current passes through it, causing the phosphor coating inside the lamp to fluoresce and produce visible light. Fluorescent lighting is commonly found in commercial and residential spaces and is subject to energy audits to assess its efficiency and performance.
Incandescent #
Incandescent
Specific Term #
Incandescent
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Incandescent lighting is a traditional lighting system that uses a filament heated to a high temperature to produce light. These lamps are less energy-efficient than newer technologies like LEDs and fluorescents, as they generate more heat than light. Incandescent lighting is gradually being phased out in favor of more energy-efficient options, making it a target for energy auditors seeking to improve lighting system efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Daylight Harvesting #
Daylight Harvesting
Specific Term #
Daylight Harvesting
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Daylight harvesting is a lighting control strategy that utilizes natural light from windows, skylights, or other openings to reduce the need for artificial lighting in a space. Sensors and controls are used to adjust the artificial lighting levels based on the amount of natural light available, ensuring that the space is adequately illuminated while minimizing energy consumption. Daylight harvesting is a key consideration in energy audits to optimize lighting systems for energy efficiency.
Sensors #
Sensors
Specific Term #
Sensors
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Sensors are devices used in lighting systems to detect changes in light levels, occupancy, or motion and adjust lighting accordingly. Occupancy sensors activate lighting when they detect movement in a space and deactivate it when the space is unoccupied. Light sensors adjust lighting levels based on the amount of natural light available in the space. Sensors play a critical role in energy-efficient lighting systems and are assessed during energy audits to optimize their performance.
Natural Light #
Natural Light
Specific Term #
Natural Light
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Natural light refers to the illumination provided by sunlight entering a space through windows, skylights, or other openings. It is a free and abundant source of light that can reduce the need for artificial lighting in a building, leading to energy savings and improved occupant comfort. Energy auditors evaluate the availability of natural light in a space and recommend strategies like daylight harvesting to optimize lighting systems for energy efficiency.
Dimming #
Dimming
Specific Term #
Dimming
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Dimming is a lighting control strategy that allows users to adjust the brightness of artificial lighting in a space. Dimmers are devices used to control the intensity of light output, providing flexibility in lighting levels based on user preferences or lighting requirements. Dimming not only enhances user comfort and ambiance but also contributes to energy savings by reducing the amount of electricity consumed by lighting systems. Energy auditors often recommend dimming as a strategy to improve lighting system efficiency and reduce energy costs.
Occupancy Sensors #
Occupancy Sensors
Specific Term #
Occupancy Sensors
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Occupancy sensors are devices used in lighting systems to detect the presence of people in a space and control lighting accordingly. They automatically turn lights on when occupancy is detected and off when the space is unoccupied, reducing energy waste and improving energy efficiency. Occupancy sensors are commonly installed in areas with fluctuating occupancy patterns, such as restrooms, conference rooms, and offices, and are evaluated during energy audits to ensure they are functioning properly and contributing to energy savings.
Skylights #
Skylights
Specific Term #
Skylights
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Skylights are windows or openings in a building's roof that allow natural light to enter a space from above. They provide an additional source of natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and improving energy efficiency. Skylights are commonly used in commercial and residential buildings to enhance daylighting, occupant comfort, and energy savings. Energy auditors assess the placement and performance of skylights during energy audits to optimize lighting systems for energy efficiency.
Windows #
Windows
Specific Term #
Windows
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Windows are transparent openings in a building's walls that allow natural light to enter a space. They play a significant role in providing daylighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting, and improving occupant well-being. Energy auditors evaluate the size, orientation, and efficiency of windows to maximize natural light exposure and optimize lighting systems for energy efficiency. Properly designed and installed windows can contribute to energy savings, thermal comfort, and overall building performance.
Control Systems #
Control Systems
Specific Term #
Control Systems
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Control systems are devices or software used to regulate and manage lighting systems, allowing users to adjust lighting levels, schedules, and settings for optimal performance and energy efficiency. They can include timers, dimmers, sensors, and centralized control interfaces that enable users to customize lighting based on occupancy, daylight availability, and user preferences. Control systems play a critical role in energy management and are evaluated during energy audits to identify opportunities for improving lighting system efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Motion Sensors #
Motion Sensors
Specific Term #
Motion Sensors
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Motion sensors are devices used in lighting systems to detect movement in a space and activate lighting accordingly. They help optimize energy usage by turning lights on only when motion is detected and off when the space is unoccupied, reducing unnecessary energy waste. Motion sensors are commonly installed in areas with intermittent occupancy, such as corridors, stairwells, and parking lots, to enhance safety, security, and energy efficiency. Energy auditors assess the placement and performance of motion sensors during energy audits to ensure they are functioning properly and contributing to energy savings.
Energy Management #
Energy Management
Specific Term #
Energy Management
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Energy management refers to the practice of monitoring, controlling, and optimizing energy consumption in a building or facility to achieve cost savings, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency. It involves implementing strategies and technologies to reduce energy waste, improve system performance, and lower energy bills. Energy auditors play a crucial role in energy management by conducting audits, identifying energy-saving opportunities, and recommending solutions to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.
Energy Efficiency #
Energy Efficiency
Specific Term #
Energy Efficiency
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Energy efficiency refers to the ability of a system or equipment to perform a given task using less energy input. It is a key consideration in energy auditing techniques, as improving energy efficiency can lead to reduced energy consumption, lower operating costs, and environmental benefits. Energy auditors assess the energy efficiency of lighting systems by analyzing lighting usage, equipment performance, and control strategies to identify opportunities for optimization and energy savings.
Efficiency Measures #
Efficiency Measures
Specific Term #
Efficiency Measures
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Efficiency measures are actions or strategies implemented to improve the energy efficiency of a system, equipment, or building. In the context of lighting systems, efficiency measures can include upgrading to energy-efficient lamps, installing lighting controls, optimizing daylighting, and retrofitting existing fixtures with more efficient components. Energy auditors recommend efficiency measures based on their assessment of lighting systems during energy audits to enhance energy performance, reduce energy costs, and achieve sustainability goals.
Retrofitting #
Retrofitting
Specific Term #
Retrofitting
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Retrofitting refers to the process of upgrading or modifying existing systems or equipment to improve performance, energy efficiency, and functionality. In the context of lighting systems, retrofitting may involve replacing outdated lamps with energy-efficient LEDs, installing lighting controls, upgrading ballasts, or implementing daylight harvesting strategies. Energy auditors often recommend retrofitting as a cost-effective way to enhance lighting system efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and prolong the lifespan of lighting equipment.
Upgrades #
Upgrades
Specific Term #
Upgrades
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Upgrades refer to improvements or enhancements made to existing systems, equipment, or components to increase performance, functionality, or energy efficiency. In the context of lighting systems, upgrades may include replacing traditional light sources with energy-efficient LEDs, installing advanced lighting controls, upgrading ballasts, or integrating smart technologies for remote monitoring and management. Energy auditors recommend upgrades as a way to optimize lighting system performance, reduce energy consumption, and achieve long-term energy savings and sustainability goals.
Smart Lighting #
Smart Lighting
Specific Term #
Smart Lighting
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Smart lighting refers to lighting systems equipped with advanced technologies like sensors, controls, and connectivity features that enable remote monitoring, management, and automation of lighting operations. Smart lighting systems can adjust lighting levels based on occupancy, daylight availability, and user preferences, optimizing energy usage and enhancing user comfort. Energy auditors assess smart lighting solutions during energy audits to identify opportunities for integrating smart technologies and improving lighting system efficiency and performance.
Internet of Things (IoT) #
Internet of Things (IoT)
Specific Term #
Internet of Things (IoT)
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected devices and systems that communicate and share data over the internet to enable remote monitoring, control, and automation. In the context of lighting systems, IoT technology allows for the integration of smart sensors, controls, and lighting fixtures that can be managed and optimized from a centralized platform. Energy auditors evaluate IoT solutions during energy audits to enhance lighting system efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall building performance through advanced connectivity and automation.
Connectivity #
Connectivity
Specific Term #
Connectivity
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Connectivity refers to the ability of devices, systems, or components to communicate, share data, and interact with each other over a network or platform. In the context of lighting systems, connectivity enables the integration of smart technologies like sensors, controls, and IoT devices to optimize lighting performance, energy efficiency, and user experience. Energy auditors assess the connectivity of lighting systems during energy audits to identify opportunities for enhancing control, automation, and energy management through advanced networking solutions.
Energy Savings #
Energy Savings
Specific Term #
Energy Savings
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Energy savings refer to the reduction in energy consumption achieved through the implementation of energy-efficient practices, technologies, and strategies. In the context of lighting systems, energy savings can be realized by upgrading to energy-efficient lamps, installing lighting controls, optimizing daylighting, and implementing occupancy sensors. Energy auditors quantify energy savings during audits to demonstrate the financial and environmental benefits of improving lighting system efficiency, reducing energy costs, and enhancing overall building performance.
Control Strategies #
Control Strategies
Specific Term #
Control Strategies
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Control strategies refer to the methods and techniques used to regulate, monitor, and optimize lighting systems for energy efficiency, performance, and user comfort. They can include the use of sensors, timers, dimmers, and automated controls to adjust lighting levels, schedules, and settings based on occupancy, daylight availability, and user preferences. Energy auditors analyze control strategies during audits to identify opportunities for improving lighting system efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing occupant satisfaction through customized lighting solutions.
Light Pollution #
Light Pollution
Specific Term #
Light Pollution
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Light pollution refers to the excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light that disrupts natural darkness, affects wildlife, and impairs human health and well-being. It can result from poorly designed or inefficient lighting systems that emit excessive light, glare, skyglow, or light trespass. Energy auditors address light pollution during audits by assessing lighting fixtures, shielding, and control strategies to minimize light spillage, reduce energy waste, and mitigate the negative impacts of artificial lighting on the environment and surrounding communities.
Glare #
Glare
Specific Term #
Glare
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Glare refers to the excessive brightness or contrast of lighting that causes visual discomfort, eye strain, and reduced visibility. It can result from direct or reflected light that creates harsh shadows, reflections, or high contrast ratios in a space. Energy auditors evaluate glare during audits to identify lighting fixtures, positions, or surfaces that contribute to glare and recommend solutions like anti-glare coatings, diffusers, or shielding to improve visual comfort, occupant productivity, and lighting system performance.
Skyglow #
Skyglow
Specific Term #
Skyglow
Concept #
Professional Certificate in Energy Auditing Techniques
Explanation #
Skyglow refers to the brightening of the night sky caused by artificial lighting that scatters and reflects off atmospheric particles, creating a luminous haze above urban areas. It can result from excessive or misdirected outdoor lighting that emits light upward, contributing to light pollution, energy waste, and astronomical interference. Energy auditors address skyglow during audits by evaluating