POTENTIAL IMPACT OF LED LIGHTING ON LEED SCORING AND CERTIFICATION
LED lighting can be a significant contributor to obtaining LEED certification for a new building. The use of one technology or product cannot guarantee LEED certification, but LED lighting systems can contribute to LEED certification in at least three areas: Energy and Atmosphere, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation.
GPI's FLAT-Lite LED lighting system provides:
· Low power consumption (12V)
· High source efficacy
· Optical control
· Extremely long operating life (approximately 70,000 hours)
· Delivered lumens
· Very low operating temperature
· Environmental responsibility (LEDs contain no lead or mercury)
· Variety of color temperatures
· Compatibility with photovoltaics (compatible in off-grid solar energy systems)
· Compatibility with lighting control systems
· Dimming options (LEDs’ efficacy actually increases when they are dimmed due to lower junction temperatures)
1. Energy and Atmosphere (EA)
The optimization of energy performance is worth 1 to 10 points in the LEED certification for new construction. This is the primary area where LED lighting can have an impact.
2. Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)
Control of the lighting system by individual occupants or specific groups in multi-occupant spaces can potentially earn 1 point toward LEED certification. LED luminaires provide the opportunity to work as part of a lighting control plan. They provide light instantaneously once power is applied, requiring no warm up time. LED lighting systems can also be dimmed to provide variable light output depending upon the needs of the occupant.
3. Innovation and Design Process (ID)
The utilization of innovative products and processes may earn between 1 and 4 points toward LEED certification. As LED lighting systems for general lighting represent new, innovative technology, they may qualify for LEED certification credit.
