Lighting is Center Stage in LEED v4
May 24, 2015
Lighting is Center Stage in
LEED v4
In the US, lighting accounts for roughly 21% of commercial
electricity consumption.
Source: U.S. Energy Information Association
LEED v4 promotes more efficient lighting and lighting design in…
-EA Credit Optimize Energy Performance (≤20 points)
-EQ Credit Interior Lighting (≤2 points)-EQ Credit Daylight (≤3 points)
-EQ Credit Quality Views (≤2 points)-SS Credit Light Pollution Reduction (1 point)
Daylighting is the maximization of natural light allowed into a building
based on occupant needs.
Source: ANL Lighting
Daylighting Guide
…but more glass means more glare controls & consideration of passive
solar strategies.
Daylighting creates more open spaces
and improves circadian rhythms
by connecting occupants with the
natural world.
Image Source: University of Utah
Using ample glass for maximal daylight is particularly popular
in atrium design.
Luckily, LEED v4 now allows such atriums to count for as much as
30% of required area for the Quality Views credit.
Lighting controls are also a critical part of maximizing lighting efficiency for the
IEQ Interior Lighting credit.(90% of occupant spaces must have controls per Option 1 calculations.)
Smart lighting control technology worth investigating…
Cree SmartCast
CommScope Redwood
Philips ActiLume
Organic Response
Lighting controls & more efficient design aren’t just about reducing
energy consumption though…
LEED v4 also offers one point for IEQ Light Pollution Reduction
According to International Dark Sky Association, light pollution (unnecessary outdoor lighting that
escapes into the night sky), has numerous harmful effects on:
-Bird migration-Insect & nocturnal mammal life
-Amphibian reproduction -Melatonin production in humans
-Economic viability (wasted energy & finances)& more!
The right indoor & outdoor lighting can add significant value to your
LEED application.
Don’t miss the opportunity.
Want to learn more about green building & connect with other environmental & LEED
professionals?
Become a free member of Poplar Network today!
For a limited time, Poplar Network is offering our F
ast 15 LEED Green Associate CE Pack for only $149.99.
Let GreenStep founder Alex Spilger walk you through all 15
credit hours in as few as 5 hours!
Are you a LEED Green Associate in need of
continuing education credits?