Occupancy sensors named most popular energy-saving tool
A growing number of businesses are expected to install occupancy light sensors to reduce their energy use, it has been claimed.
According to the Environmental Leader website, sensors that turn off light fixtures when rooms are unoccupied are now the most frequently recommended energy-saving device for offices.
The move from ordinary lightbulbs to sensor-equipped lighting systems was named as one of 20 "sustainability trends" identified by the publication, with knowledge of such technology set to grow among businesses as 2010 approaches.
"Among new building projects surveyed in the past two years, occupancy sensors were recommended in 55 per cent of applications, which can save an average of 30 per cent in lighting costs," Becky Willan, head of strategy at sustainable communications firm Clownfish, told the website.
"Expect more companies to be adopting energy-saving techniques this year, particularly as companies tighten their purse strings in the recession."
US newspaper the Bellville News-Democrat recently reported on the new headquarters of Impact Strategies, a commercial property firm based in Illinois.
The $2.1 million building uses lighting computer sensors that regulate energy use by measuring the amount of natural light present in each room.
