Preliminary study of automatic daylight control of artificial lighting

Abstract

The availability and present use of photo-electric continuous dimming or simple switching lighting controls are described and the cost effectiveness of using such systems is investigated. Although data on use of lighting are lacking, necessitating some assumptions, it is concluded that at present costs automatic dimming systems are likely to be cost effective in new buildings. Fitting existing lighting installations with automatic dimming control is not usually cost effective although an increase in electricity cost of about 4% per annum in real terms could change this. Despite smaller potential savings automatic switching can often be cost effective since initial costs are significantly lower. The maximum conservation potential of automatic controls is between 0.2 and 0.4% of UK primary energy use.