RETROFIT & SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS
How smart lighting is transforming retrofit projects
Chris Anderson, technical manager at Ansell Lighting, discusses why smart lighting is a suitable option for modernisation schemes and how it supports both energy efficiency and long-term sustainability goals
S
ince its introduction around 20 years ago, smart lighting has revolutionised the lighting industry, enabling organisations to save millions in operational costs and prevent tonnes of CO2
emissions.
As the antidote to static, inefficient lighting systems, smart lighting is a game-changer for those in building management. Offering automation, heightened control and almost limitless combinations of colour temperature and brightness choices, smart lighting uses wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Zigbee, to connect luminaires across a space into a unified, intelligent network that can be centrally controlled. Operated via an app, remote control or voice control, smart lighting enables the output of every individual light fitting within a building to be controlled and automated to meet specific requirements. This offers huge benefits in terms of both energy efficiency and running costs, with manufacturers confirming that smart lighting can reduce lighting energy consumption by up to two-thirds when properly configured. It’s also advantageous from a safety and security perspective, enabling lighting systems to be programmed to automatically illuminate outdoor areas at dusk, provide overnight lighting for paths and car parks, and mimic occupancy by turning lights on in internal spaces when buildings are unoccupied — deterring potential intruders. More recently, enhancing the benefits of smart lighting systems even further, light monitoring dashboards have been developed giving
building users more visibility of their lighting use. These dashboards gather real-time data from each device and display it in a central interface, offering users a comprehensive view of their lighting system performance, energy use, and occupancy trends. Facilities teams can then quickly identify where energy is being wasted, spot failing components, and adjust settings remotely – saving time and money. This level of visibility is especially valuable
in large or multi-site operations, where it supports more effective planning, faster issue resolution, and proactive, data-driven energy management. Dashboards also simplify compliance and reporting by storing all relevant data electronically in one accessible location. This enables instant compilation of information for statutory reports, streamlines compliance audits, and ensures accurate, up-to-date documentation is always on hand. One of the biggest benefits of smart lighting – particularly in retrofit or refurbishment scenarios – is the ease of which it can be installed and configured. Unlike traditional lighting systems, which often require extensive rewiring or additional infrastructure, smart lighting is typically designed to work with existing electrical setups and standard fittings, meaning there’s no need for disruptive remodelling or building work. Many smart luminaires have plug-and-play functionality, allowing installers to simply replace existing fittings with minimal effort. Once installed, configuration is typically handled via an app or desktop interface. Here the luminaires can be grouped, zones defined and lighting schedules can be
created and implemented with just a few taps. Commissioning can be completed room- by-room or floor-by-floor, allowing for phased installation across larger sites with minimal disruption to building occupants. This simplicity is a major advantage – especially in retrofit and modernisation projects, where time, cost and disruption are key considerations. Good Wi-Fi coverage is essential however, as smart lighting systems rely on wireless communication. In buildings with thick walls, high ceilings, or long corridors, it’s worth remembering that Wi-Fi boosters or mesh systems may be required to ensure signal strength and maintain reliable operation. Smart lighting is available in an extensive range of styles, finishes, and formats meaning it can be easily incorporated into existing spaces without altering the existing visual design - unless required of course. As the pressure to reduce carbon emissions and improve building performance continues to grow, smart lighting offers building services professionals a practical, futureproof solution to enhance lighting use. Alongside delivering measurable results, its ability to integrate seamlessly into existing environments with minimal disruption makes it an ideal option for retrofit and modernisation schemes.
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