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DOE's conventional lighting R&D activities focus on:
- Searching for technology breakthroughs in conventional light sources to improve efficiency by 20 to 50 percent, and developing revolutionary technologies that can substantially increase source efficiency
- Developing the potential of energy-efficient fixtures, distribution systems, and controls to conserve 25 to 50 percent of building energy by delivering light in the right quantity and quality to meet occupant needs
- Evaluating the complex interrelationship between human vision and efficient light use, which may yield energy savings of 20 to 30 percent
Light Source R&D
DOE investigates novel methods to generate light efficiently and seeks new ways to improve the efficiency of existing electrical light sources. The proliferation of efficient light sources such as compact fluorescent lamps has dramatically reduced energy use. Future advances in light source technologies can lead to longer life, better quality light, increased efficiency, greater flexibility, and better performance in a wide array of lamp applications. Recent conventional light source projects include:
Fixtures, Controls, and Distribution Systems R&D
DOE research also advances conventional lighting technologies and systems through systematic evaluation and improvement of components such as luminaires, ballasts, distribution systems, and controls. For example, research on plug-in compact-fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will further increase user acceptance of CFLs.
Lighting controls that dim lights or turn them on and off help to reduce building energy usage by lowering light levels when appropriate. Controls include switches, photocells, timers, occupancy sensors, and dimmers. Advances in these technologies give individuals more control over the light in their work and living areas. Recent lighting controls projects include:
The Impact of Lighting on Vision
DOE research is resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of how the human eye is affected by light and how this interaction influences human performance and energy consumption patterns. Lighting can be much more pleasant if designers learn more about how light is best dispersed, in which colors, and in which intensities for a given activity. Technological advances and continuing research in this area can provide better light quality and flexibility at higher levels of energy efficiency.
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