An innovative and energy efficient alternative to incandescent and fluorescent lighting, LED lighting uses significantly less electricity than its predecessors. Organisations and businesses can reduce consumption and benefit from lower utility bills. However, there are other advantages that we detail below, along with the potential savings and how they offset the initial expenditure.
Ownership & Maintenance Costs
Although – to some extent – technological considerations mean that LED bulbs might have a higher price tag than incandescent versions, their low electrical consumption and long lifespan mean that over the long term, the average cost of ownership is lower. Also, LED bulbs are now more widely available and competitive in price than when they first appeared on the market.
Over time, compared to their traditional incandescent, CFL (compact fluorescent light) and halogen counterparts, LED light bulbs are significantly cheaper to own. Thanks to their superior reliability, they usually last up to fifty times longer. For organisations, therefore, upgrades soon begin to recoup the initial outlay through reduced ownership and maintenance costs.
Total Running Costs
When we examine the cost of electricity used, the decision to switch to LED becomes even clearer. These remarkably low-wattage bulbs produce comparable, instant light output to conventional but higher-rated bulbs. An old-fashioned 60-Watt bulb, typical in table lamps, lasts for the equivalent of around 100 days. Electricity amounts to £7.20, making total costs just under £11 a year.
CFL bulbs cost an average of £1.50 per year, i.e. the result when we divide the purchase price by the estimated service life. Based on the same average usage of 10 hours per day, an equally bright CFL bulb uses approximately £1.70 worth of electricity over twelve months, totalling £3.20. In contrast, longer lasting LED light bulbs usually cost in the order of £1.70 per year to own but, thanks to their lower wattage, use even less electricity. Typically, the total running cost is just £2.80 per annum.
Environmental Benefits
Apart from reduced power bills, ultra-low power LED lighting is positive for the environment, as it results in a reduced carbon footprint.
Free LED Lighting Guide
If you own a commercial property, we invite you to download our free guide entitled Why Upgrade To LED Lighting? We specialise in innovative lighting solutions to transform and enhance public areas and work environments. Why not get started today? Gain more control of your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, with the benefit of our nine decades or more of experience designing and installing high-quality lighting networks in a portfolio of challenging and prestigious building projects.
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