Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Use of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) reduces electricity consumption by up-to-90 per cent and LEDs can have a very long life; up to 100,000 hours in some cases. Their use is expanding at a rapid rate, with the potential to be more than just a light indicator source.LEDs were invented in 1962 and the technology has continued to see huge improvements. Initially LEDs were used mainly as indicator lamps and optical switches, and used extensively for electronics. The technology evolved such that their brightness and colour are sufficient for use in traffic and pedestrian signals, vehicles, exit signs and Christmas lighting.
The technology has expanded to include step-lights, under-cabinet fixtures, architectural applications, accent lighting and corporate identities. The advantages of LEDs over conventional sources are:
- greatly reduced electricity use
- a life exceeding 10 years
- virtually no maintenance
- available in a variety of colours
- unaffected by low temperatures
- suitable for year-round outdoor use
Until recently, LEDs were limited to those applications mentioned above as opposed to general lighting. General lighting is defined as lighting that provides sufficient lumens to light a space or perform a task.
Early in 2005, another key advancement was announced with the introduction of a new LED source that provides controllable and high-quality illumination. It enables the most energy efficient general lighting available today. LED is reputed to be the first and only fully integrated, seamless solid state lighting source that can be cost effective for general lighting purposes.
Improvements continue in LED technology driving towards general lighting applications for homes and small business. Increased lumen output permits fewer LEDs per cluster resulting in lower energy and capital costs. Pilot projects are underway in Canada and the U.S. to help determine acceptability and efficiency for general lighting.
LEDs could be the next breakthrough for general lighting technology for all market sectors. In homes where lighting accounts for up-to-30 per cent of the electricity use, LEDs could reduce this to less than two per cent.
LEDs continue to offer applications not contemplated just 10 years ago. It is predicted that within the next 10 years, homes will be illuminated very differently and much more efficiently than they are today, thanks to LED technology.
