LED lighting a bright idea? According to the Pike Research report, “Energy Efficient Lighting for Commercial Markets”, nearly half (46 percent) of the $4.4 billion commercial lighting business will be given over to LED lighting, by 2020.
Also noted in the Pike Research report, "Lighting currently represents about 17.5% of all global electricity consumption. The U.S. alone accounts for approximately 20% of this amount at an annual cost of over $40 billion. As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important for controlling costs, improving energy independence, and reducing environmental impacts, governments and organizations have looked to lighting as the “low hanging fruit” of energy efficiency."
LEDs, which have been most widely used for commercial purposes, have seen an increase in installation for traffic lights and exit signs and will soon saturate the market for outdoor lighting within a few years, according to Clint Wheelock, managing director at Pike Research.
Not only are LEDs more energy efficient, they’re also more durable, versatile, last longer, emit very little heat, and release far less carbon dioxide emissions than incandescent and fluorescent lighting. In comparison, one report estimates 35,000 to 50,000 hours of useful life, fluorescent lights at 10,000 to 15,000 hours and incandescent bulbs at 1,000 to 2,000 hours.
Though we’re just on the cusp of reaching more mainstream LED lighting options for residential use, we’re certainly on the forefront of LED technology for commercial use. So the real question remains… what’s Louisville doing and is Louisville LED ready? You can read further about Louisville’s Economic Development & Energy Efficiency plans here. Also, be sure the check out your local Lowe’s for LED lighting options available to you.
Today’s Tech Deal: JustDeals offers a Polaroid Pocket Printer PoGo for $19.99. This little guy packs a punch, using Zink technology (zero ink, that is) to print 2x3” prints. Hint: use coupon code DEALNEWS1 for free shipping!
Photo: Flickr/purplemattfish
