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The Daylighting Difference: Sustainability

April 13, 2020

Given that a large fraction of greenhouse gas emissions are the result of burning fossil fuels to produce electricity, one of the most significant steps a company can take towards a sustainable future is curbing its electricity use. Fortunately, one of the largest consumers of electricity is also one of the most easily replaced. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), artificial lighting in the commercial and residential sectors is responsible for approximately 5% of the total U.S. electricity consumption in 2019 [1] and makes up approximately 10.3% of all commercial electricity use [2]. By decreasing their dependence on artificial lighting and utilizing natural daylight instead, companies can lower operational costs while also helping to conserve the environment. And one of the best ways to do that is through translucent daylighting. 

U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Gas and Sector, 2017

Source: Center for Climate and Energy Solutions

In addition to limiting the need for artificial lighting, translucent daylighting can also help companies to further reduce their carbon footprint by cutting back on air conditioning. Space cooling alone is responsible for 11.9% of commercial electricity use [2] and can be especially costly when compensating for unwanted solar heat gain and hot spots created by direct streams of sunlight into the building. But by diffusing incoming daylight through translucent panel systems, companies can continue to savor the sun’s light without having to increase HVAC output. This is good for both people and the environment. Click HERE learn more about how translucent panel daylighting systems support green initiatives. 

Sources:

  1. https://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=99&t=3
  2. https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/electricity/use-of-electricity.php

The Daylighting Difference: Sustainability

@majorindustries #majorindustries #daylighting #sustainability

Company: Major Industries Inc.

Source: https://majorskylights.com/sustainable-design-leed/



Tags:

Daylighting

Skylights

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