User guide for occupancy sensor lighting controls in Army administrative facilities
Occupancy sensors can reduce the amount of electrical energy used for lighting. They have received much attention in energy conservation articles, but vendor claims of savings vary widely. Several types are available. Application of sensors in various types of spaces, such as single offices, multiperson (group) offices, conference rooms, and restrooms, have different potential payback. A field evaluation of occupancy sensors in Army administrative buildings was performed to define actual savings resulting from their use by quantifying energy savings and actual costs for installation. The evaluation took place at Fort Riley, KS, and included the installation of 30 sensors in two administrative facilities occupied by military personnel. Results of a 6-month test period, comparing energy consumption and lighting on-time (amount of time that lights are on) before and after occupancy sensor installation indicated energy use reductions of 30 percent in individual offices, 65 percent in restrooms, 60 percent in conference areas, 19 percent in classrooms, and 14 percent in group offices. Although the reduction in lighting on-time may be considerable, the economics must be evaluated carefully to determine if the retrofit is cost-effective. Such variables as electric utility rates, total controlled wattage (connected load) per sensor, space occupancy patterns, and total installed cost strongly influence the economic viability of a potential sensor retrofit opportunity. Installed costs for the ceiling-mounted sensors average $110 per sensor.
- Research Organization:
- Army Construction Engineering Research Lab., Champaign, IL (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 6829375
- Report Number(s):
- AD-A-283888/6/XAB; CERL-FEAP-UG-FE-94/15
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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