The Sacramento County Department of General Services (DGS) partnered with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) to complete a pilot project that reduced lighting electricity usage by a staggering 80 percent. The newly installed lighting and control systems are twice as efficient as upcoming energy codes will require, and could mean a brighter future for upcoming projects.
The pilot project was funded by a $23,000 SMUD grant and included the installation of dimmable LED lights in a large 9,000 square foot office and a wireless control system.
“Using innovative technology to be more energy efficient is an ongoing County effort,” said County Executive Bradley J. Hudson. “We are always looking for innovations to protect the environment as well as precious tax dollars.”
The new LED lights automatically detect incoming natural sunlight from windows and skylights and dim accordingly. The lighting control system also allows facilities maintenance to control lighting throughout the building from a single remote location, and detect whether lights are on or off.
“This pilot project is part of our larger effort to expand the way we think about energy and technology,” said Dan Mendonsa, Energy Program Manager. “The building occupants are very pleased with the initial results and we look forward examining future applications of this pilot project.”
The lighting and control system are completely wireless and required no remodeling. The benefits versus cost and installation are being evaluated, but these new technologies could play a vital role in the County’s future construction and tenant improvement projects.
To learn more about the environment and sustainability, visit the Green Sacramento County website.
Writer: Danielle Spang, Communication and Media Intern
