Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are changing the way we light our world. LED lighting products are efficient and durable and can make a major difference in energy savings. There are thousands of new advancements and products being introduced creating exciting opportunities to create a more energy efficient world. By 2019, it is estimated that LEDs will fill 53 percent of the global lighting market.
The increased use of LED lighting could have a huge impact on energy savings in the United States. Energy Star-rated LED products use 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than current incandescent lighting. If every U.S. home replaced one incandescent light with an Energy Star bulb, nearly $700 million in energy costs and 9 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be saved.
Energy-saving tools such as LED systems help commercial developments establish energy efficiencies and achieve Energy Star status. In addition to the terrific environmental benefits of these plans, Energy Star-rated commercial buildings use about 35 percent less energy than other facilities. That energy savings translates to considerable financial savings.
LEDs emit almost no heat, which saves significantly on cooling costs. They light to full capacity instantly, aren’t sensitive to humidity or low temperatures and are extremely hardy. A recent two-year study by Oak Ridge National Laboratories revealed that buildings featuring LEDs used 55 percent less energy than buildings with CFL lighting.
Cities are looking to retrofit street lamps on a citywide scale to combat energy inefficiencies and light pollution. LED street lamps cost 3 to 4 times more but they last 3 to 4 times longer. They can save communities 30 to 70 percent in electricity costs annually.
With all of the compelling new technologies on the horizon, commercial building owners and managers can expect to see LEDs used in increasingly ingenious and beneficial ways.
