Research 2 Sustainable Lighting Controls

 

The Research 2 building incorporates numerous “sustainable” or “green” features that create a healthy work environment while saving the University money and conserving energy.  One such feature is the lighting control system.  The R2 lighting system incorporates state of the art controls designed to ensure a comfortable and safe environment when spaces are occupied and energy savings when spaces are not occupied.  Computer systems monitor occupancy and control lighting levels automatically.  We appreciate your ongoing patience as we fine tune the system with occupant input and our familiarization with this system.

 

·         It is anticipated that the R2 lighting monitor/ control system will generate savings in electricity costs of more than $40,000 annually when compared to a similar building with conventional lighting controls.

·         This savings represents enough electricity to power 60 homes in Colorado for one year.

·         The actual reduction of electricity use is equivalent to eliminating 400 metric tons of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere per year.

 

Here is how the system works:

 

Interior Offices

·         An Infrared occupancy sensor monitors for body heat and automatically turns the lights on when someone enters the office and will remain on while the room is occupied.  If the sensor detects lack of movement for more than 30 minutes, the lights will automatically turn off.  Lighting level is adjusted at the wall control by the Office occupant.

 

Exterior Offices

·         Offices with exterior windows have occupancy sensors that operate similarly to interior offices. Integral photocells adjust the lighting level depending on the amount of daylight available.

 

Laboratories

·         Laboratory lighting is turned on manually, and similar to the Offices, ultrasonic occupancy sensors detect movement and lack thereof by radar, and will turn the lights off when no movement is detected in 20 minutes.  Lights can also be manually turned off by row at the wall control by the Lab occupant.

 

Laboratory Alcoves and Procedure Rooms

·         Alcove and Procedure Room lighting is turned on manually or via infrared occupancy sensor.  If the manual switch is left ON, the lights turn on and off automatically as the occupant enters and exits.  The maximum period of time the lights will remain on without movement is 15 minutes.  If the switch is turned OFF, the lights will remain off until manually turned on by the occupant.

 

For more information or questions about the R2 lighting controls, please contact the Facilities Operations’ Customer Service Center at X41777.