Profiles in lighting upgrades

Without a doubt, lighting upgrades involving energy-efficient lamps, ballasts, controls, etc. stand as some of the most attractive investments around. This special 2007 series offers examples of how real-life commercial, institutional, and industrial properties have successfully pursued and benefited from lighting upgrades. Baltimore's Montgomery Park commercial facility recently took on a celebrated tenant - the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) - as well as a celebrated cause, when its management team agreed to pursue green building design within the 1.3 million s/f structure's vintage architecture. In addition to installing energy-efficient solutions and sustainable materials throughout the building envelope, the overhaul involved an extensive lighting upgrade involving dimmable fluorescent systems. To maximize energy efficiency and best utilize the facility's wealth of windows and natural daylight, management opted for a daylight harvesting system using photocell technology, a lighting control configuration which engages dimming based on available daylight levels. "Continuous dimming with daylight trackers was an effective and affordable approach at Montgomery Park," said, property developer Sam Himmelrich. "The system works, it's straightforward and simple for end users to operate, and it minimizes energy use and maintenance requirements." In the open areas where it was installed, Montgomery Park's daylight harvesting system is up to 20% more energy-efficient than standard upgrade designs. A model of green design and energy-efficient lighting control, Montgomery Park stands as a testament to the optimal balance of nature and technology. Susan Bloom is director of corporate Communications for Philips Lighting & Advance