Lighting contributes to electricity consumption both directly, by using electricity to power lights, and indirectly, by increasing cooling requirements in the building and the need for air-conditioning.

But you can offset this cost by formulating a targeted strategy to improve lighting efficiencies. The table below outlines the potential savings for an average-sized commercial building. Of course, exactly how much you can save depends on your unique situation.

The most efficient lighting option is often the least expensive on a life-cycle cost basis

Upgrading to new technology light fittings, retrofitting new lamps or bulbs into existing fittings or completely redesigning your lighting solution can sometimes save up to 60% of your lighting specific energy costs.

Better still, modern light fittings and lamps typically:

• Require less maintenance than their predecessors
• Last longer
• Emit less heat (so you require less air-conditioning).

Use the lighting assessment tool to determine how your business lighting measures up against the New Zealand Building code and New Zealand Green Building Council's Green Star ratings. For further information on how your business can use energy more efficiently, visit EECA business.