Smart lighting controls: the hidden energy saver
- anna66943
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
When people think about energy-efficient lighting, LED upgrades are usually the first thing that comes to mind. And it’s true – switching from traditional fittings to LED can cut lighting energy use by around 50 to 70%, depending on the building and usage patterns.
But there’s another step that can deliver even greater results: smart lighting controls.
What are smart lighting controls?
Smart lighting controls are systems that automatically adjust light levels based on factors such as occupancy, daylight availability, and time of day. They can include:
Occupancy sensors, which detect movement and switch lights on only when spaces are in use.
Daylight sensors, which dim or turn off lights when there’s enough natural light.
Time scheduling, which ensures lights are only on during operational hours.
Zoning and scene setting, which allow different areas to be controlled independently or create tailored lighting settings for specific tasks or events.
Why they matter
LED technology delivers a major energy efficiency boost, but it is still possible to waste energy if lights are on when they are not needed.
Industry studies (including Carbon Trust guidance) show that adding controls such as occupancy sensors and daylight dimming can increase lighting energy savings by an additional 20 to 40% compared to LEDs alone.
That means a combined LED and smart controls upgrade could deliver total savings of 60 to 80%, depending on your building type, hours of use, and how well the system is commissioned.
The technical advantage
Modern smart lighting controls use advanced sensors, wireless communication, and cloud-based monitoring to optimise lighting in real time. Benefits include:
Precision control, ensuring light levels match actual needs at every moment.
Data insights, helping you monitor energy usage, identify trends, and inform future efficiency measures.
Scalability, so systems can be expanded or reprogrammed as your business changes.
Integration with building management systems, giving you complete oversight of energy performance.
Beyond energy savings
Smart controls do more than reduce your energy bills. They can also improve comfort, support workplace wellbeing, and extend the lifespan of your lighting. Fewer hours of operation mean reduced wear on fittings, which lowers maintenance costs.
Helping you achieve net zero
As a member of the Darlington Employers Environmental Partnership (DEEP), TEP Electrical Distributors is committed to helping local businesses reduce their carbon footprint. By combining LED upgrades with smart controls, we can help you take a big step towards your net zero goals while cutting costs.
Book a free lighting consultation today or get in touch to chat with one of team:
+44 (0) 1325 467563
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