Efficient Electrical Lighting for Laboratories

There is a considerable body of research that describes the impact of the visual quality of the work environment on worker comfort, health, and productivity. The appropriate design of lighting systems is especially important in laboratories, given the intensity and significance of work carried out in laboratories and the long work hours spent by researchers. In addition, the lighting energy intensity in laboratories is up to twice that of a typical office space. Lighting energy use typically accounts for between 8% and 25% of total electricity use, depending on the percentage of lab area. While not a significant percentage compared to HVAC systems, it nonetheless provides several opportunities for energy efficiency.