A happy individual is an engaged individual. Lighting can play a key role in improving our mood by changing the intensity and color temperature. The connected lighting systems can be programmed to extract targeted behavior as per the requirement, either focussed or relaxed.
As of now the quantitative benefits of this is difficult to ascertain. However, an inviting environment in a workspace or at home will be a key selling point as well as a differentiator. Connected lighting is a system of lighting fixtures with sensors networked together with remote connectivity. IoT has almost become mandatory to modern offices for a high-class customer experience.
Today we see mega office occupiers sticking to lighting control strategies to achieve their sustainability / green building goals, maximize daylight harvesting and ensure that employees/ occupants get the right exposure to light along with personalized control of lights. Occupancy based on-off, daylight-based dimming/ tuning, lower maintenance costs due to self-diagnostic, fault prediction, fault detection and health monitoring, reduced failure rates- reduced downtime, occupancy mapping, optimize space utilization, timed event scheduling, data insight to facility managers to create better lighting and control strategies are some key advantages.
With continuous threat of the third wave, it is safe to say that connected lighting is the present and future of lighting.
This constant struggle to sustain a favourable working environment has made connected lighting a vital factor. Connected lighting will enable a system that is controlled by sensors and linked through a common network. Hence, creating a comfortable work environment as it adds an extra layer of safety reassurance. The best part is that the companies can incorporate this modification without making any significant renovations.
However, to find out if the system fits right for your business, below are the four factors that you need to consider before opting for connected lighting-
Increasing Productivity
Lighting is no longer only about illuminating the workspace. It has more to do with providing with optimum brightness for employees, at workplace, home or otherwise, avoid feel fatigued due to low lighting. However, in the present times the connected lighting also influences employee’s everyday productivity since it plays a role in improving their mood, increasing alertness, and boosting efficiency and well-being.
Therefore, by shifting to connected lighting, companies will be able to easily adjust the hue and the intensity of the fixtures as per the outdoor weather and keep the spirit of the employees upbeat. This transition will not only advance the overall health of their employees but also contribute to better performance.
High electricity bill
Lighting is an inevitable cost for an organisation. Companies across the globe are always exploring ways to cut their overhead expenses. By installing LED lights to connected lighting, they can significantly reduce the expense on lighting.
The energy efficiency of 80-90% and added features like scheduling of lighting can contribute to lowering the electricity bills. Scheduling means that organization can predefine a time for switching the light on or off, areas or the entire building. For instance, during the day, when the sunlight is at its peak, companies can use it as a source or dim the bulbs for suitable brightness.
Casual usage of lights
Connected lighting helps in dealing with the problem of unnecessary lights left switched-on in your facility. This system provides real-time data on the various electrical appliances being used in different areas of the building. Such an insight clarifies the most used sections and at what time they are used. Additionally, gathering this information will allow companies to automate lighting and make modifications to cater to everyone’s requirements precisely.
Lighting Upgrades are Easy
Good thing about connected lighting is the fact that one doesn’t have to worry about the cost of upgrading to this method. Reason for this is that the system will not require any refurbishing but a simple link to the existing Wi-Fi networks will do the job. Organizations just need to install sensors on existing fixtures, which omits the requirement of an entire lighting overhaul. Since, the process of restructuring the lighting is simple, it is a time saving process as it is done almost instantly. The complete process of changing the office from a regular construction to a smart building can be done quickly.
Connected lighting is a smart and inexpensive upgrade with two-branched benefits- for the employees and for the firm. This simple upgrade will transform your office making it more flexible, customizable, and cost-effective.
To be attributed to Mr. Prag Bhatnagar, Executive Vice President & SBU Head, Havells India.