In July of 2008, DB upgraded the entire building's indoor lighting system. The new system uses less energy, creates less heat, and produces a more natural light.
The previous lighting system was one very common in office buildings with suspended ceilings and 2' by 4' fluorescent lighting units. Each unit held four 40 Watt fluorescent bulbs and utilized an electromagnetic ballast. The bulbs in these units operated at a frequency of 60 Hz, which created a stroboscopic effect. Furthermore, when one bulb in a unit failed, the other bulbs on the circuit would fail as well.The upgraded lighting system utilize four 32 Watt fluorescent bulbs and electronic ballasts.
The new system's bulbs require 20% less energy to operate and utilize electronic ballasts that are 9% more efficient than their electromagnetic counterparts. In addition to saving energy, the new system produces light at a frequency of 20,000 Hz or higher which substantially eliminates the stroboscopic effect. Overall, the new lights are actually brighter, more energy efficient and easier on the eyes than the previous system.
Estimated Power Reduction: 1,650 kWh per month (57%)
Estimated Cost Savings: $345 per month
Estimated Payback Period: 20 Month |