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Lighting plays a significant role in any workplace, as it impacts not only the employees’ productivity but also their comfort and well-being. However, traditional lighting systems can be inefficient and costly, especially for facilities that operate 24/7. That’s where smart lighting solutions come in, providing several benefits to organizations looking to optimize their lighting systems for energy savings, improved productivity, and occupant comfort.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of smart lighting systems and explore different types of smart lighting technologies and controls, as well as offer implementation strategies and tips for upgrading to smart lighting systems.

Benefits of Smart Lighting Systems

Smart lighting systems provide a host of benefits that make them an excellent investment for organizations. Firstly, they offer significant energy savings compared to traditional lighting systems. Smart lighting systems use LED lighting technology, which is more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. Moreover, smart lighting systems can be programmed to turn on and off automatically, reducing energy waste during periods when the lights are not needed.

Smart lighting systems can also enhance productivity in the workplace. Studies have shown that lighting can have a significant impact on employees’ productivity, with brighter lighting improving performance and alertness. Smart lighting systems can be programmed to adjust the lighting levels throughout the day to match natural daylight, improving employee productivity and reducing the risk of eye strain or headaches caused by poorly-lit workspaces.

Finally, smart lighting systems can improve occupant comfort. Smart lighting technologies like color tuning allow FMs to customize the color temperature of their lighting systems to suit different tasks, such as warm lighting for relaxation or cool lighting for concentration. This feature can enhance occupant comfort and reduce eye strain, making employees feel more comfortable and productive in their workspaces.

Different Types of Smart Lighting Technologies and Controls

There are several different types of smart lighting technologies and controls available on the market, each offering unique benefits for organizations looking to upgrade their lighting systems.

• Occupancy Sensors: Occupancy sensors are a type of smart lighting technology that detects motion in a room and turns the lights on or off accordingly. This feature can help reduce energy waste by ensuring that lights are only on when the room is occupied.
• Dimmers: Dimmers are another type of smart lighting technology that allows FMs to adjust the brightness of their lighting systems. This feature is particularly useful in environments where different lighting levels are required for different tasks, such as conference rooms or presentation spaces.
• Color Tuning: Color tuning is a smart lighting technology that allows FMs to customize the color temperature of their lighting systems. This feature can improve occupant comfort and productivity by providing lighting that is tailored to specific tasks and activities.
• Smart Controls: Smart controls are a type of smart lighting technology that allows FMs to control their lighting systems remotely using a smartphone or tablet. This feature provides FMs with greater flexibility and control over their lighting systems, allowing them to adjust lighting levels and schedules remotely.

Implementation Strategies and Tips for Upgrading to Smart Lighting Systems

Upgrading to a smart lighting system can seem daunting, but with the right strategies and tips, the process can be straightforward and stress-free.

• Conduct an Energy Audit: Conducting an energy audit is the first step in identifying areas where energy savings can be achieved. This audit will help FMs understand their current energy usage and identify opportunities to reduce energy waste.
• Determine Goals and Priorities: FMs should identify their goals and priorities for upgrading to a smart lighting system, such as energy savings or improved productivity. These priorities will help guide the selection of smart lighting technologies and controls.
• Choose the Right Technology and Controls: Choosing the right smart lighting technologies and controls is essential for achieving the desired benefits. FMs should consider factors such as the size of their organization and the type of tasks involved.

Take Control of Your Utility Spends With a Leader in Facility Management

NFD develops maintenance and facility solutions that eliminate operational disruptions, fine-tune energy management systems for optimal energy efficiency and implement training procedures that teach our clients, the end users, the critical role they play in reaching energy usage targets. Our team will work with you to review your existing process and practices to formulate a unique plan of action that meets your Energy initiative goals while minimizing the spend and positively impacting your facility’s overall performance. Contact us today to learn more.