THE SWITCH

 

 

The University of Houston can take a step further in reducing its energy consumption of the dining halls by implementing a lighting control system that can shut off or dim some areas in the dining facilities.

 

"The original design of these older facilities did not place any emphasis on electrical efficiency through control of lighting. We have large areas served by only one or two switches, with either full on or full off – no selectivity of varying light levels was thought of." 1

 

The lighting control system is meant to function on the whole dining facility which includes the main dining areas, restrooms, kitchen and preparation areas, offices, storage and freezer. The impact of the control systems can

- Reduce the amount of power used at peak times by dimming or turning off the light in unused spaces

- Reducing the amount of time the lights are on during the day instead of a complete 24 hour cycle

- Reducing internal heat gains from the light, especially at peak times in the dining halls such as lunch and dinner

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both Fresh Food Company at Moody Towers and the UC Satellite receive a good amount of daylight which in return would benefit from daylight-driven daylighting that use photocells to determine the amount of light that hits a space.

 

It is important to note the amount of energy savings and cost effectiveness of the system, but the payback periods vary widely by project and are also difficult to predict accurately. However, it is helpful to consider this savings and how well these systems will help the overall and future efficiency of the facility. 

Lighting controls can add approximately $0.50 - $1.00 per square foot initially. 

 

The data prepared by Clanton & Associates, Inc. shows the potential energy savings and cost effectiveness of different control systems, but in a typical office building. However, some aspect of the data is relevant to understand the potential it can have on the dining facilites. 

 

 

 

Sources:

1.  Bogna, Jerry. Interview

2.  David Nelson, AIA. Electric Lighting Controls