Energy saving and ergonomic lighting scenarios

This project focuses on the user interface of lighting control solutions, the users' lighting ergonomic experience and the significance of control solutions for energy consumption. In two case studies, the project investigates whether a lighting system's intuitive user interface, with pre-programmed lighting scenarios, increases the understanding of the system's potential and promotes user-interaction, energy conservation and overall lighting perception.

A central part of the project is testing of additional information for the physical user interface incl. an introductory video about the lighting solution's options and control functions. Despite direct information to users on both writing and film, and through several channels, the study shows a clear tendency for users not to prioritize or take the time to seek knowledge about the lighting and its possibilities.

The experience from the project shows that even though the controls are supported by intuitive illustrations and user-friendly pushbottons and scenarios, it is important that both adjustment and instruction / dialogue between technical staff and the users are prioritized and followed up. At the same time, users express a desire to be able to use the lighting correctly. There is therefore a special task in providing users with sufficient and appropriate information in several rounds, so that they become aware of the value of the new lighting system.

The project's 2 cases document the lighting in a typical classroom and a smaller open-plan office, respectively. Both cases show that the establishment of good ergonomic lighting solutions with daylight and presence sensors can lead to a significant reduction in electricity consumption for lighting.

For the classrooms at Herstedlund School, the total savings potential is calculated at approx. 32%, compared to the existing lighting systems with traditional light control and fixtures with T5 light sources. In the office premises at Gentofte Town Hall, it is possible to achieve a total electricity saving of approx. 58% compared to the existing system, also with T5 fluorescent tubes.

Based on the project's results, guidelines and checklists have been prepared, which can be used in connection with both renovation and establishment of new lighting.

It should be noted that the project has been strongly challenged by several circumstances, which have meant that the data material collected is very limited and that the interviews with users have not been carried out as planned. Covid-19 restrictions and shutdowns, especially during the winter periods, when the light measurements had to be carried out, have meant that the desired comparison of the lighting systems and the lighting controls is based on a very limited data collection and few direct interviews with the users.