NCJ Number
76351
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 48 Issue: 4 Dated: (April 1981) Pages: 45-48
Date Published
1981
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article suggests ways in which lighting energy may be conserved without reducing the amount of light needed for a specific purpose, and without incurring large costs.
Abstract
Lighting has many varied benefits. Good outdoor lighting can aid in crime prevention, boost employee morale, and serve as a symbol and destination for those in need of emergency assistance. Indoors, there is a definite relationship between good lighting and worker productivity. Lighting has been shown to have a significant effect on memory retention and achievement. Many lighting energy conservation opportunities (LECOs) exist which can change an inefficient lighting system into a more efficient one. One is to replace inefficient lamps or entire lighting systems with more efficient lamps or systems. Although capital expenses are involved, the payback in efficiency and optimum lighting conditions can provide even more savings and better lighting. Another LECO is to install more efficient lighting fixtures based on CU (coefficient of utilization) ratings. Still others include changing to high efficiency flourescent ballasts and providing for better lighting controls through the use of multiple switches, time switches, photocells, dimmers, and microprocessor-based systemwide controllers. Good lighting maintenance procedures which replace lamps before they burn out and after they have passed their period of maximum usefulness can increase lighting efficiency and reduce lighting costs. Before adopting any of these LECO suggestions, it would be wise to consult with expert assistance and to conduct a lighting energy audit of the existing lighting system.