Lab: Lighting

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 22% of all U.S. energy use goes to lighting. The wrong amount or kind of lighting in your workspace can cause eyestrain, glare, and headaches.

Turn Off Lights When You Don’t Need Them
Look to eliminate unnecessary lights and use natural lighting when possible.

Use Task Lighting
If possible, turn off overhead lights and switch on a desk lamp. With low-wattage task lighting, less ambient light is needed, resulting in energy savings upwards of 40%.5

Switch to CFL or LED Light Bulbs
CFLs last 6–12 times longer than incandescents and use about 75% less energy. Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs last even longer than CFLs and use a fraction of the energy. Both are available in equivalent light intensity and quality.

WE CAN WORK TOGETHER

Agree on Lighting Routines in Communal Spaces
Work with other building occupants on a routine for turning lights off when they are not needed. Post instructions for more complex switches. Install lighting timers or occupancy sensors in common areas whenever possible.