Jill Richmond, Project Manager at GreenBrook Electrical, looks at how to use occupancy detectors and lighting controls to reduce energy consumption.

In today’s world, where energy efficiency has become both an environmental necessity and an economic priority, building owners, facility managers, and homeowners are seeking innovative ways to reduce wasted power. One of the most effective yet often overlooked strategies is the implementation of occupancy detectors and advanced lighting controls. These technologies ensure that lighting systems deliver illumination only when and where it is needed, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption and cutting costs without compromising comfort or safety.

This article explores how occupancy detectors and lighting controls work, the wide range of benefits they provide, and why they represent an essential component of any modern energy management strategy and building specification.

Understanding

Occupancy detectors are devices that automatically turn lights on or off depending on whether a space is occupied. They typically use sensors, such as:

• Passive infrared (PIR): Detects movement based on body heat
• Microwave Technology: Uses microwaves to detect motion
• Dual-technology: Combines both for greater accuracy

By ensuring lights are only active when people are present, occupancy detectors eliminate the common problem of lights being left on in empty rooms.

Lighting controls refer more broadly to systems that manage lighting based on various factors, including occupancy, daylight availability, schedules, or user preferences. These may include:

• Time-based scheduling systems that turn lights on or off at predetermined times
• Photocells that dim or switch off lights when sufficient natural light is available
• Dimming controls that allow lighting levels to adjust dynamically for tasks or ambiance

When used together, occupancy detectors and lighting controls create a smart ecosystem that aligns energy use with real-time needs.

Reducing energy waste

One of the most direct benefits of these systems is the reduction in wasted electricity. Studies consistently show that a significant portion of lighting energy is consumed unnecessarily because lights are left on in unoccupied spaces.

For example:

• In offices, lights in conference rooms or restrooms are often left on for hours even when no one is inside
• In schools, classrooms may remain illuminated during lunch breaks or after school hours
• In residential buildings, hallways and other communal areas can waste energy when residents forget to switch lights off

Occupancy detectors address this issue automatically. When no movement is detected after a set period, the system turns off the lights. This ensures that energy is only used when it provides value, eliminating the human error of forgetting to flip a switch.

Cost savings

Energy waste translates directly into higher electricity bills. By cutting unnecessary usage, lighting controls deliver measurable financial savings.

• Commercial buildings: Studies suggest occupancy sensors can reduce lighting energy consumption by 30–60%, depending on the type of building and usage pattern
• Residential settings: Homeowners can see reductions in utility bills by installing occupancy detectors in high traffic but irregularly used areas such as bathrooms, and garages
• Large campuses or institutions: Schools, hospitals, and government facilities can save thousands annually by adopting automated lighting controls across multiple spaces

Although there is an upfront cost for installing sensors and control systems, the payback period is often short, sometimes less than two years, due to the substantial energy savings.

In offices, improved lighting quality has been linked to better concentration and fewer headaches, while in homes, adaptive lighting enhances relaxation and supports healthy circadian rhythms.

Extended lifespan

Another indirect but valuable benefit of occupancy detectors and lighting controls is that they extend the lifespan of lamps and fixtures. Every hour a light is turned off instead of left running unnecessarily contributes to a longer service life.

This is especially important with LED technology. While LEDs are highly efficient, they do experience gradual degradation with use. Reducing operational hours not only saves electricity but also delays replacement costs. This reduces both maintenance expenses and the environmental burden of disposing of used components.

Safety and security

Beyond efficiency, occupancy detectors can enhance safety and security.

• Safe passage: In stairwells, corridors, and parking garages, automatic lighting ensures that people are never left in the dark, reducing risks of accidents.
• Security presence: Exterior lighting with motion sensors can deter intruders by making it appear that someone is nearby. Unlike constant illumination, which wastes energy, motion-activated lights only engage when activity is detected.

This dual benefit – energy savings plus safety enhancement – makes occupancy detection especially valuable in public facilities and multi-residential buildings.

Supporting sustainability goals 

Organisations and households are increasingly seeking ways to align their operations with sustainability goals. Reducing lighting energy consumption through smart controls contributes directly to:

• Lower greenhouse gas emissions: Since much of the world’s electricity is still generated from fossil fuels, reducing demand directly reduces carbon output
• Compliance with building codes and certifications: Many green building standards encourage or even require the use of lighting controls. Implementing these technologies can improve a building’s certification level
• Corporate responsibility: For businesses, showcasing energy-efficient practices strengthens their reputation with environmentally conscious stakeholders

Flexibility for the future

As buildings become smarter and more connected, lighting controls serve as a foundation for broader automation strategies. Modern systems often integrate with building management systems (BMS) or smart home platforms, allowing users to monitor and adjust lighting remotely via apps or dashboards.

This flexibility makes it easy to adapt to changing needs:

• In offices, schedules can be adjusted as work patterns evolve
• In schools, holiday schedules can be programmed in advance
• In homes, lights can be controlled remotely for convenience or security while away

The scalability and adaptability of these systems ensure that they remain relevant investments even as technologies evolve.

Overcoming common concerns

Some building owners hesitate to adopt occupancy detectors or lighting controls due to concerns about cost, however prices for sensors and controls have dropped significantly in recent years, making them accessible even for small-scale applications.

When properly designed and installed, these systems are unobtrusive and highly effective, delivering both energy and non-energy benefits.

Conclusion

Occupancy detectors and lighting controls represent a simple yet powerful solution to the persistent problem of wasted energy in buildings. By ensuring lights operate only when necessary and at appropriate levels, these technologies cut electricity use, lower costs, extend equipment life, and improve occupant comfort and safety.

For businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and homeowners alike, investing in these systems is not just a cost-saving measure but a step toward greater sustainability and smarter building management. As energy efficiency continues to rise in importance globally, occupancy detectors and lighting controls stand out as practical, proven tools for creating a brighter, greener future.

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How Forum Lighting Solutions is continuing to thrive in a volatile market.

The UK lighting industry is at a crossroads. Soaring energy prices, rising labour costs and ongoing supply chain disruptions have created one of the toughest operating environments manufacturers have seen in years. Add to this the lingering impact of Brexit on trade, volatile raw material costs and a construction market slowed by high interest rates, and it’s clear why many businesses are feeling the squeeze.

Put into the mix that margins are under pressure; global competition is intensifying, and regulation is tightening with energy efficiency targets, sustainability standards, and product compliance requirements and you would think UK lighting manufacturers may as well call it a day!

But there is a success story amongst this doom and gloom. Forum Lighting Solutions has seen a substantial growth in the lighting controls market over the past 12 months.

Their mission has always been simple: to deliver lighting products that combine innovation, usability, and reliability, backed by the service levels wholesalers and installers can trust. Over the past year, the business has taken some bold steps forward, from expanding their smart lighting portfolio, to strengthening their team and picking up an award for outstanding customer service along the way from the industry.

Innovating for the smart home

The smart home is no longer a niche concept; it’s a fast-moving mainstream expectation. Forum has listened carefully to the challenges electricians face when installing connected lighting – from complex wiring to compatibility issues. Earlier this year the team launched ikonects smart home by Forum, their first dedicated smart-home product.

The ikonects smart switch is designed to make upgrading to a smart home effortless. It retrofits onto existing wiring, requires no extensive rewiring, and integrates seamlessly into a control unit. With customisable backlighting, proximity sensors, and timers, ikonects not only provides convenience but also elevates the end-user experience. For installers, it’s a game-changer: faster to fit, easier to upsell and more reliable in performance.

Alongside ikonects, Forum has continued to enhance their Kinetic wireless switch range. With increased receiver wattage, push-fit connectors and integrated cable clamps, the latest generation makes installations even smoother. These upgrades reflect our ongoing commitment to producing products that save time for contractors without compromising on functionality or design.

Extended product portfolio

Lighting isn’t just about illumination — it’s about creating spaces that work beautifully and efficiently. Forum’s latest catalogue (Edition 11.) – which launched in September – showcases a host of new ranges, from decorative bathroom downlights to beautiful and stylish pendant lights to plug-and-play outdoor kits.

It evolved to support wholesalers and contractors with clearer layouts, improved sizing guides, cross-referencing, and QR codes linking to demo videos. By making product selection easier, the business is helping customers make the right choice, faster.

Within outdoor lighting, there is a wide range of new products which boast style and durability and come in different finishes to appeal to all. Electricians can find popular Forum designs in different sizes with the ability to change the level of brightness and colour temperature; trendsetting ribbed glass shades; new guide lights and downlights.

The catalogue has a large and comprehensive range of new 24V professional LED tape. This commercial quality LED tape is multi-functional for both domestic and commercial situations. The LED tape comes in different colour temperatures, is dimmable, with a range of drivers and can be paired with smart homes systems so you get the best functionality out of the tape.

The catalogue also shows off beautifully the wide range of new, stylish pendant lights – ideal in kitchens or above dining tables. Stunning lifestyle photography brings the range to life from single ceiling pendants to multiple light diner pendants.

Strengthening the team

Growth isn’t just about product development; it’s about people. Last autumn, the leading lighting manufacturer welcomed Steve Kaye as their new Sales & Marketing Manager. With more than 30 years’ experience in building brands, Steve has already brought fresh energy to the business, focusing on driving brand awareness and ensuring Forum’s offering reaches a wider audience of wholesalers and electricians.

As Commercial Director, Lawrence Benjamin, explains; “We have ambitious plans for Forum over the coming years. Strengthening our team with seasoned professionals ensures we can continue to support wholesalers and installers with innovative products, fast delivery, and the kind of customer service that sets us apart.”

Customer peace of mind

Forum’s headquarters are in Oldham, Greater Manchester, where the team operates from a large purpose-built facility that combines warehouse space, offices, and a state-of-the-art showroom. With robust stockholding and next-day delivery available, all employees focus on delivering excellent customer service – understanding the importance of keeping wholesalers supplied and installers working without delays.

Quality is central to everything Forum does. The business is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified, demonstrating commitment to both consistent standards and environmental responsibility. For wholesalers, that means peace of mind: the Forum products on their shelves are designed and tested to the highest standards.

Looking ahead

A final word from Sales & Marketing Manager Steve: “The lighting industry is changing fast, and we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. Smarter controls, sustainable design and simplified installation are driving demand across residential, commercial, and outdoor sectors.

“At Forum, we’re committed to helping wholesalers and installers capitalise on these trends with products that are reliable, forward-thinking, and stylish.”

While many UK manufacturers are grappling with cost pressures and market uncertainty, Forum Lighting Solutions is proving that a clear strategy, continuous innovation, and investment in people can buck the trend.

By focusing on smart, installer-friendly products, strengthening the team, and maintaining the service levels that wholesalers and electricians rely on, Forum is not only weathering the storm, but is carving out a stronger position in the market.

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The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award so you can be assured of their value. It’s probably why EDA businesses have taken over 10,000 training modules since launch.

Lighting (Systems and Controls) is one of the 12 EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules created to develop the professional knowledge and confidence of your team.

Training in Lighting (Systems and Controls) includes:

• Types of lighting controls
• Dimming LED Retro-Fit lamps and LED fixtures
• Multi-way control of stand-alone dimmers
• Wired low-voltage lighting control protocols explored
• Low-voltage wiring for lighting controls
• Motion sensors
• Wireless lighting controls
• The Internet of Things and smart-phone app controls
• Emergency lighting controls
• Lighting control modules in commercial buildings

Online learning through The EDA Academy

All the EDA Product Knowledge Modules are available to study electronically via The EDA Academy, the Association’s e-learning portal. Each training course is delivered through video and interactive learning, but if the original hard copy textbook is preferred these are still available.

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Lighting (Systems and Controls) module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Test your knowledge

Q1: What is the difference between inrush current and running current?
Q2: Can two “master” dimmers be connected together?
Q3: What is a photocell used to measure or detect?
Q4: What frequency does Bluetooth most commonly use?
Q5: Where would you expect to find devices on a LAN?
Q6: Name two output types for LED drivers.

Scroll down for answers

Answers

Q1: The inrush current is a brief current when the load is first switched on. The running current is the current normally required when the load is illuminated
Q2: No – always check the wiring options with the manufacturers that you stock
Q3: Light/daylight
Q4: 2.4 GHz
Q5: In a home or other building
Q6: Constant current & Constant voltage

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done.

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk, including videos and a downloadable course directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk.

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LEDVANCE looks at different types of intelligent lighting systems and controls and how they can help to achieve a reduction in energy consumption.

Businesses looking to invest in an intelligent lighting system for their work facilities will find a wealth of products at their fingertips. Climate change has accelerated the speed at which lighting management is innovating, as has the recent RoHS ban on T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes. The results are not only exciting, but game-changing from an energy-saving perspective. A comprehensive, networked amalgamation of all the lighting controls within a building leads to an impressive reduction in energy consumption that cannot be replicated by alternative methods, such as switching to LEDs alone.

In July 2022, LEDVANCE conducted its own research into lighting and the impact it has on the environment, and subsequently global warming. The results showed that while energy-efficient luminaires certainly help reduce lighting’s impact, there reaches a point where the energy savings plateau and increasing lumens per watt is simply not enough. An intelligent sensor-assisted light management system which can switch on and off or dim the light increases efficiency past this point by saving consumption. It is therefore not just useful, but essential, for businesses to reap the benefits of energy saving from intelligent light systems.

Facilities managers will be reassured to know that within the wide selection of systems available is an exceptional choice of customisation options that tailors the lighting to what a facility and the workers within it need.

Sensors

The scope of sensor programming on offer in the lighting management sphere means that there’s settings to fully customise a building’s lighting according to how the facility is used and its hours of operation. Presence detection avoids unnecessary illumination in empty corridors or meeting rooms, and daylight sensing reduces the lighting from luminaires during the brightest parts of the day.

Human-centric lighting

When considering the benefits of automated lighting systems to their spaces, facilities managers will generally note convenience and cost benefits. However, these systems can have an additional positive impact on wellbeing and productivity, as automated systems provide the valuable opportunity to adapt lighting to the circadian rhythms of staff.

The circadian rhythm is our 24-hour body clock that governs natural cycles of activity and rest by managing hormone levels. Humans are known to be heavily influenced by variations in natural light throughout the course of the day. A human oriented lighting concept uses smart controllable LED lighting systems to simulate the characteristics of natural daylight, combining the visual and non-visual biological effects of light through changing colour temperatures and illuminance levels.

Artificial light that synchronises with our circadian rhythms is proven to make us happier, healthier and more productive. It has been scientifically proven that spaces which use human centric lighting systems increase staff wellbeing, concentration and performance during the day, improve the quality of sleep at night, and helps reduce sickness. Therefore, an automated lighting system with HCL programming will not only illuminate an office facility but support the wellbeing of everyone within it.

Adapting to a building

Intelligent lighting systems can be adapted not only for building usage, but for the building itself. Whether the system is being applied to an existing facility as a retro fit installation, or to a new build, management systems provide options. For example, Vivares, the IoT light management system from LEDVANCE, works either with DALI or Zigbee technology for maximum compatibility with any intelligent installation.

LEDVANCE Vivares Zigbee works with a controller that communicates with up to 200 compatible devices using the highly reliable Zigbee 3.0 wireless standard. This makes the system a first choice when no additional control lines should or can be laid, such as when modernising existing buildings or refurbishing listed buildings. Vivares Zigbee is also ideal for changing room situations because the system is flexible and easy to adapt.

Vivares DALI is suitable whenever additional control lines can be laid without any problems, such as in suspended ceilings, when retrofitting existing DALI installations or when equipping new buildings. The Vivares DALI system can also be integrated into a higher-ranking KNX system for building control using a KNX interface. This means that automated tests, including reporting, can be carried out on any emergency lighting system.

Conclusion

The above offers just a glimpse into what light management systems have to offer for businesses assessing their energy saving opportunities in this field. There’s even more choice out there on the market and, given the rapid developments within this product sector, there’s bound to be even more innovation on the way. Watch this space.

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