Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
To qualify for Energy Star certification, LED lighting products must
pass a variety of tests to prove that the products will display the following
characteristics:
1. Brightness is equal to or greater than existing lighting technologies
(incandescent or fluorescent), and light is well distributed over the
area lighted by the fixture.
2. Light output remains constant over time, only decreasing towards
the end of the rated lifetime (at least 35,000 hours or 12 years, based
on use of eight hours per day).
3. Excellent colour quality; the shade of white light appears clear and
consistent over time.
4. Efficiency is as good as or better than fluorescent lighting.
5. Light comes on instantly when turned on.
6. No flicker when dimmed.
7. No off-state power draw: the fixture does not use power when it is
turned off, with the exception of external controls, whose power
should not exceed 0.5 W in the off state.
6.3.2.8.9 Desktop Computers
A new Energy Star specification for desktop computers went into effect
in July 2007 [13]. The requirements are more stringent than the previous
specification, and existing equipment designs can no longer use the
logo unless re-qualified. The power requirements are for 80% or greater
AC power supply efficiency using the standards defined by the 80 Plus
Program [14].
6.3.2.8.10 New Homes
New homes that meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency can qualify for
Energy Star certification. An Energy Star qualified home uses at least 15%
less energy than standard homes built to the 2004 International Residential
Code (IRC). They usually include properly installed insulation, high perfor-
mance windows, tight construction and ducts, energy-efficient cooling and
heating systems, and Energy Star-qualified appliances, lighting and water
heaters [15].
6.3.2.9 Energy Performance Ratings
The EPA's Energy Star programme has developed energy performance rat-
ing systems for several commercial and institutional building types and
manufacturing facilities. These ratings, on a scale of 1-100, provide a means
for benchmarking the energy efficiency of specific buildings and industrial
