A conversion to LED school lighting by a school district simultaneously accomplishes a variety of important goals. The energy savings can be substantial. Plus, LED lights are Eco-friendly in numerous ways. A lighting retrofit at a primary school in Peoria, IL is estimated to eliminate 1.76 million lbs of carbon dioxide emissions over the next decade. In a retrofit at Thomas Jefferson School, 600 T12 fluorescents were replaced by dimmable LEDs.
Fluorescent lights have been omnipresent in school buildings for many years. In fact, in many buildings, they have represented the primary source of electrical usage, by far.
Now, LED lighting addresses the significant shortcomings of such lighting. First, energy consumption is typically reduced from 50 to 90 percent. Imagine a $10,000 electric bill cut to $5,000, or much less. Second, LEDs do not emit the UV wavelengths of l ight that fluorescents do. UV light exposure is associated with the premature degradation of numerous substances, including certain plastics, and fabrics.
Third, fluorescents contain mercury. Accidental breakage of fluorescent tubes has often resulted in the need for very careful, and therefore expensive, clean up. Furthermore, the deleterious effects of mercury on the environment and on human health are well-documented. A conversion to LED lighting demonstrates concern for the well being of students and faculty alike.
Fourth, the greenish tinge of fluorescent light quality is both unflattering and an impediment to lab observations, for example, that require attention to color changes. By contrast, LEDs can be installed that closely mimic the light spectrum of sunlight.
Fifth, LEDs offer much greater longevity than traditional fluorescents. The long hours that fluorescents have to be in service in a school are self-evident. It is not only during class hours that illumination is required. Today, school structures are more multi-purpose than ever, For example, many high schools serve as campuses for technical colleges that offer primarily evening classes. And, extracurricular activities are as numerous as ever. What’s more, many sports practices, for example, require the illumination for large areas for hours on end. Basketball courts, wrestling practice areas, and swimming pools all require significant illumination.
To specifically explore what a LED lighting retrofit could mean for your facilities, please contact us at Relumination. Our experts will quickly assess your specific needs and calculate the savings possible
