This project focuses on the development and laboratory testing of a new cost-effective Simplified Daylight Harvesting (SDH) approach designed to operate as a bi-level lighting system and applicable to existing bi-level systems, which have been required in California by Title 24 since 1983. The SDH system works “out of the box,” i.e., without need for either calibration or commissioning. Most commercial spaces have enough daylight next to windows to eliminate the need for electric lighting. Daylight harvesting systems automatically dim or switch electric lights depending on daylight availability, offering significant energy savings. Most importantly, they offer significant peak demand reduction, since peak demand usually occurs during the highest levels of daylight availability. Dimming electric lights based on available daylight is expensive with significant equipment (dimming ballasts) and commissioning costs. To date, only a small fraction of side-lit dimming applications operate satisfactorily. While useful in low daylight areas, dimming is not really necessary in areas with high levels of daylight where dimming is only useful during the early morning and late afternoon. The cost of the SDH system is very low, offering the potential for cost-effective commercial products that will help reduce energy and peak demand requirements in new and existing commercial buildings. At this point, development of the system is complete. Work is being done to move forward with commercial applications.  | |  | |  | | Installation daylighting control systems | | Simplified Daylight Harvesting testing laboratory | | Photosensors for daylight harvesting | Status: In progress Expected Completion Date: January 2008 Application: Areas with plenty of daylight close to windows and skylights References Sponsor:
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