A novel approach to sensor-less daylight harvesting in commercial office buildings

Abstract

The rise of energy costs is negatively impacting operating budgets for buildings. Energy efficient programs are being implemented during the design phase of buildings to maximise occupancy comfort and reduce energy consumption. The problem for investors is that the cost to install these energy efficient products have questionable investment returns. Through theoretical and subsequent empirical analysis, this paper introduces a mathematical equation that replaces existing sensor controlled daylight harvesting control systems. This is achieved using an exponential distribution that takes a weather station lux reading to identify the natural light at any given point in a building. This equation makes it possible to calculate the dimming level (the level by which the light fitting reduces in power to create artificial light) required to achieve a designed lighting level that uses both natural and artificial light. This sensor-less daylight harvesting method will provide building owners with an alternative, less expensive, and more efficient daylight harvesting control system.