The majority of the traditional lighting projects are automated— lower- wattage lamps, lighting controls, and minimal footcandle levels—and do not require any other activity on the part of the users. Even with these projects in place, a proactive campaign to modify use patterns can save even more.
The first step is to create a lighting schedule that shows when lights in each space are used. It should be quite close to the occupancy schedule—if it is not, then the first area for potential savings is already discovered. The schedule should be developed with the assistance and cooperation of the senior staff who use the spaces so that when the schedule is finalized, they can be made responsible for its implementation. This whole process can be subdivided into several steps:
1. Define the type of occupancy for each period the space is in use.
2. Determine the type and level of light required in the space to comfortably fulfill safety and security needs.
3. Notify responsible employees of the necessary schedule of operation, using charts and schedules.
4. Posting of notices in the workplace and color-coding switches may help employees follow the new rules at first until they become second nature.
Some additional training of all employees may further help to ensure compliance and understanding of the purpose and objective of the program. The bottom line is that lighting costs money and the less artificial lighting that can be used without affecting the effciency of personnel, the more money that’s available for salaries, benefits, and facilities improvements.
These are some ideas to jump-start the program in the short term. Long term, a steady reinforcement of the campaign should maintain compliance. Letters, memos, signs, and personal contact with key people help. Supervisory personnel and custodians should be regularly reminded of three things:
• Use lights only when necessary.
• Use only the amount of light required.
• Turn off lights when they’re not in use.
Education will go a long way to foster the spirit of the campaign. A simple chart posted by each switch showing what lights it controls can also help.
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Excerpt from Energy Conservation Projects.