Efficient Lighting Saves Energy
Decreasing electrical usage with an efficient lighting system was important to us at Insight Technology/FactorLoads. We chose a Lutron lighting system, which has three primary functions. First is an automatic shut off capability. At 5:30 p.m. all the lights automatically turn off, as do all but one of the electrical outlets in each worker’s cubicle. That way, nearly all electronic equipment is shut down every night automatically, including computer monitors, radios and task lights.
The second function of the Lutron system is motion detection. The entire 12,000 square foot building employs the sensors so that lighting is only provided in places where there are people using it. If there is no movement, the lights shut off automatically.
The third function of the Lutron system is its natural light sensor. The system senses how much natural light is coming in through the windows and can either brighten or dim lights accordingly. Even dimming the lights just five percent on a mildly sunny day equates to substantial energy savings.
To help bring in more natural light and reduce the reliance on electricity, the building was constructed with 24 solar tubes (which are like skylights) that bring in light through the roof. The building also has light shelves on each window that sit atop the interior frames and help bounce light deep into the building’s interior.