Innovative hybrid solar lighting reduces waste heat and improves lighting quality

Melissa Voss Lapsa, Christina Ward, Curt Maxey, David Beshears, James Parks

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Artificial lighting is the largest component of electricity use in commercial U.S. buildings. Hybrid solar lighting provides an exciting new means of reducing energy consumption while also delivering significant ancillary benefits associated with natural lighting in commercial buildings. The system uses a roof-mounted collector to concentrate visible sunlight into a bundle of plastic optical fibers. The fibers penetrate the roof and distribute the sunlight to multiple "hybrid" luminaires within the building. The hybrid luminaires blend the natural light with artificial light to maintain a constant level of room lighting. During 2005 and 2006 a field-trial demonstration program is being implemented across the U.S. By the year 2011, hybrid solar lighting should be saving the nation over 50 million kWh/year while also dramatically improving lighting quality in commercial buildings. A system cost goal of $4000 has been identified as necessary to meet the previously stated energy savings by 2011.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAmerican Solar Energy Society - Solar 2006
Subtitle of host publication35th ASES Annual Conf., 31st ASES National Passive Solar Conf., 1st ASES Policy and Marketing Conf., ASME Solar Energy Division Int. Solar Energy Conference
Pages355-360
Number of pages6
StatePublished - 2006
EventSolar 2006: Renewable Energy - Key to Climate Recovery, Including 35th ASES Annual Conference, 31st ASES National Passive Solar Conference, 1st ASES Policy and Marketing Conference and ASME Solar Energy Division International Solar Energy Conference - Denver, CO, United States
Duration: Jul 9 2006Jul 13 2006

Publication series

NameAmerican Solar Energy Society - Solar 2006: 35th ASES Annual Conf., 31st ASES National Passive Solar Conf., 1st ASES Policy and Marketing Conf., ASME Solar Energy Division Int. Solar Energy Conference
Volume1

Conference

ConferenceSolar 2006: Renewable Energy - Key to Climate Recovery, Including 35th ASES Annual Conference, 31st ASES National Passive Solar Conference, 1st ASES Policy and Marketing Conference and ASME Solar Energy Division International Solar Energy Conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityDenver, CO
Period07/9/0607/13/06

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