Outdoor lighting?

Question

Reduce the use of electricity. By changing how outdoor lighting is directed.

With globe lights, the light disperses everywhere. However, if the light was focused towards the ground, similar to the way a flashlight focuses light, then less electricity would be needed to light up a particular area

How do we inform architects about this aspect of sustainability?

Answer 1

Most architects don't design outdoor lighting. That's what they hire electrical engineers and lighting consultants to do. Most projects that are designed use full cut-off site lighting. Engineers are fully aware of this concept. It is not a new concept. In fact, many cities have adopted a dark-sky ordinance that requires this. Most cities have an energy code that also requires this. When you see globes, they are usually installed along public right-of-ways by utility companies as stated above. Some private construction sites do use globes, but they are normally planned as part of the aesthetics.

Answer 2

To echo the previous respondents, most designers know the various pro's and con's of different outdoor lighting styles.

The ultimate goal of architectural design is often not enviromental responsiblity or energy efficiency.   Often, buildings are designed for aesthetics.  The architect, or more likely the client, is seeking a specific "look."  Also, first cost considerations come into play.  If the client doesn't care about the style of the fixtures, and doesn't specify that environmental considerations are a concern, then the cheapest units are typically selected.  Finally, lead times and delivery schedules can be important.  If our construction project is under a deadline, then it's likely that I'll use whatever equipment / fixtures I can find from local suppliers, rather than seeking out the "best" solution.

As someone else pointed out previously, city ordinances and energy codes often dictate which options are available to designers.   So one way to ensure that the most environmentally responsible designs are chosen is to become involved in local politics and look at establishing local building codes that support sustainability.

Answer 3

Most architects know this.  It's the utilities that are the problem.

In all likelihood, in your community, the electric company determines how many street lights are needed, sells the lights, sells the maintenance contracts to keep them working and sells the electricity to run them.  There is no bidding.

Answer 4

while we're at it, why not look into those lights that absorb solar energy during the day and run off it at night, so they require no electricity at all?!   they turn on automatically when it gets dark and off when it is light.