Building Design - getting the first steps right means that overall energy efficiency will be cheaper and easier to achieve.

Lighting

An energy efficient lighting system makes use of natural light, particularly from north-facing windows and uses the right light for the right task.

Home lighting requirements

The two types of lighting that most rooms require are:

Consider these design tips when deciding on what lights to buy and where you use them:

1. Use natural light

Make the most of natural light by not using dark colours for interior walls, especially in south-facing rooms and hallways.

2. Choose lights appropriate for purpose

Use pendant or surface mounted light fittings for general lighting.
When spot lighting for long periods, such as over kitchen benches, use fluorescent or low voltage quartz halogen lights.
Avoid vented recessed downlights and many incandescent spot lights.
Install fluorescent lights where lights will be left on for a long time, such as in family rooms, in the kitchen and for security.
Have separate switches to control the number of lights that come on at any one time.

Find out how much you can save on lighting by using the Energywise online calculator.