Signify is a leader in sustainable lighting, providing professional customers and consumers with quality products, systems and services. Nico van der Merwe, Cluster Leader, Cluster West, Signify, discusses the regulatory changes within the lighting industry and the emerging technologies which are changing our living spaces. He also discusses how Signify is helping companies and individuals achieve their net zero goals.
As a leader in public and government affairs, what are the biggest regulatory and sustainability challenges currently shaping the lighting industry, and how is Signify addressing them?
Measurement of circularity and reporting on the through life environmental impact of products, both embedded and in use. Signify has chosen to build a huge database of EPDs [Environmental Product Declarations] and LCA [Life Cycle Assessment] for the most accurate and informed support of sustainability reporting. It is also difficult for us as a business to monitor all the various metrics which are now starting to appear for circularity, for example, and also the wide number of requests which are coming into the industry are from specifies end-users’ sustainability specialists, which are not always aligned with wider industry expectations and emerging standards. At Signify, we understand our role as leader. We know we need to guide and lead opinion on why we believe that EPDs are the best way to measure circularity, for example, and to highlight those other metrics and methodologies where we believe they fall short. There is generally, across all of society, a huge amount of legislation coming in regarding sustainability, reporting cross-border carbon measuring and it is almost impossible to cover all the aspects of this issue in short-form.
Again, our role is to keep a watching brief over all new legislation and requirements in the industry and to have a strong and robust team working collaboratively with our trade association. In the UK’s case, this is the LIA [Lighting Industry Association] to make sure that our interpretation and our awareness of all the latest developments in the world of sustainability are tracked, understood and applicable in the correct way to the lighting industry.
Changes come in many forms, including reducing use of certain chemicals and substances and RoHS [Restriction of Hazardous Substances], right to repair, reducing waste and compliancy with, for example, WEEE [Waste, Electrical and Electronic Equipment]. In each case, it is essential that the industry continues to innovate and expand. At Signify, on our product and services offerings, such as 3D Printing, Ultra High Efficiency Lighting and Light-as-a-Service providing cradle to re-use agreements, are examples of innovation we have undertaken. Compliance and being part of the bigger conversation on new innovations and standards and regulations is one of our core activities as an ethical and responsible producer.
With lighting playing a crucial role in the Internet of Things (IoT), what emerging technologies in connected and smart lighting excite you the most? How do you see them transforming homes, businesses and public spaces?
Smart lighting control systems (sensors & automation): Motion sensors, ambient light sensors and automated schedules allow lights to adjust based on real-time conditions. IoT-enabled sensors can detect occupancy, time of day or environmental conditions and adjust the lighting accordingly. In smart homes, lighting can be automatically controlled to suit the homeowner’s preferences or energy-saving needs. For instance, lights can turn off when no one is in the room or adjust based on natural daylight.
In this way, businesses can use smart lighting to create more energy-efficient environments, reducing costs. For example, lights in office buildings or warehouses can be programmed to adjust based on occupancy or time of day, cutting down on energy waste as an example. In public spaces, smart lighting can help improve safety by illuminating pathways based on movement or time of day. It can also be used for security purposes, automatically turning on lights in areas when motion is detected. In all cases of reduced energy consumption and intelligent application of light where and when it is needed, there is a cumulative benefit in the moves to sustainability and net zero.
Voice-controlled and app-enabled lighting: Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri are being integrated into lighting systems created by Signify, enabling users to control their lights through voice commands or smartphone apps. In homes, voice and app-controlled lighting offer unprecedented convenience, allowing users to set the mood, adjust brightness and even sync lights with entertainment systems. For businesses, voice-controlled lighting systems allow for hands-free control of lighting in large spaces, enhancing both comfort and operational efficiency. In public areas, voice-controlled lighting can be used to create dynamic lighting schemes for events or exhibitions, providing a more interactive experience.
Adaptive lighting in urban planning: This responds to real-time conditions like pedestrian traffic, weather or time of day, adjusting brightness and energy usage as needed. In urban environments, adaptive lighting can contribute to smart city infrastructure by enhancing safety (e.g. brighter lights in high-traffic areas at night) while minimising energy consumption in less busy areas. This can make public spaces more sustainable and safer for citizens and again helping governments at local and national level achieve their targets for decarbonisation and achieving genuine net zero by improved energy usage and changing the relationship we have with energy rather than just using offsets and trading carbon certificates. Signify has system architects and integrates available to ensure that any new installation in an outdoor application will be installed and commissioned to operate at maximum benefit, efficiency and as seamlessly with other digital technologies in the same space as possible.
To sum up, these technologies are helping us move toward smarter, more efficient and sustainable environments, whether at home, in the office or in public spaces. As IoT continues to evolve, smart lighting will not only enhance the way we experience spaces but will also contribute to broader goals such as energy conservation, improved wellbeing and the creation of more adaptive, resilient environments, paving the way for more intelligent, adaptive and user-centric lighting solutions that have the potential to positively impact our daily lives and the built environment.
Signify has consistently been a leader in sustainability, earning top industry ratings. What innovations or breakthroughs in lighting technology do you believe will have the most significant impact on achieving net zero goals?
The most fundamental breakthrough in the last 15 years and which continues to improve and innovate today is LED lighting itself. The widespread adoption of LED lighting has already made a significant impact on energy efficiency and carbon emissions reduction. LED technology is more energy-efficient than traditional lighting sources, such as incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, and has a longer lifespan, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced maintenance costs.
Maximising the benefit of LED comes from connected lighting systems, enabled by IoT technology, offering advanced control and monitoring capabilities that can optimise energy usage, enhance user comfort and improve operational efficiency. Features such as occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting and adaptive lighting controls enable buildings to adjust lighting settings based on real-time conditions, leading to energy savings and reduced environmental impact. Energy savings over traditional lighting platforms can be in excess of 90% when LED is part of a full commissioned and well-planned system. Whether a Hue or Wiz installation in private homes or covering miles of urban road networks, the energy savings that can be achieved, especially when powered on renewable grids, is a major contributor to local, national and international net zero goals.
Circadian lighting systems are designed to mimic natural light patterns and support human wellbeing by regulating sleep-wake cycles, improving mood and boosting productivity. By aligning artificial lighting with our natural circadian rhythms, these systems can enhance occupant comfort and health while reducing energy consumption.
Solar-powered lighting solutions leverage renewable energy sources to power outdoor lighting applications, such as streetlights, pathway lighting and garden lights. By harnessing solar energy and integrating energy storage systems, these solutions can operate off-grid and reduce reliance on traditional grid electricity, helping to lower carbon emissions and enhance sustainability. Even in the northern hemisphere, the efficiency of photo voltaic panels is now so improved that Signify has had successes with solar in regions across the UK and Ireland, showing traditional ideas around the need for regular high levels of sunlight no longer hold true.
By leveraging these innovative technologies and breakthroughs in lighting, companies like Signify can continue to drive progress towards achieving net zero goals by reducing energy consumption, minimising carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices in the lighting industry and beyond.
The lighting industry is evolving rapidly with advancements in AI, automation and data-driven solutions. How do you see these trends influencing the future of lighting, both for professionals and consumers?
Signify sees the advancements in AI, automation and data-driven solutions as certainly revolutionising the lighting industry in several ways, impacting both professionals and consumers as follow:
Energy efficiency: AI algorithms can optimise lighting systems to reduce energy consumption without compromising on lighting quality. Automation can also help in adjusting lighting levels based on occupancy or natural light, further enhancing energy efficiency for both professionals and consumers and adaptively changing settings for maximum comfort cost and energy savings.
Improved maintenance and management: Data-driven solutions can provide real-time insights into lighting system performance, enabling professionals to proactively address maintenance issues and optimise system operation. This can result in cost savings and enhanced reliability for consumers and Signify is happy to help support this thorough the service life, cradle to re-use, of an installation with Light-as-a-Service (LaaS) agreements.
Sustainable design: The integration of AI, automation and data-driven solutions in lighting design can facilitate sustainable practices by optimising resource usage and reducing waste. This trend can lead to the development of eco-friendly lighting solutions that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers such as Signify 3D solutions with Signify My creation.
Overall, the convergence of AI, automation and data-driven solutions is poised to transform the lighting industry by offering innovative, efficient and personalised lighting solutions for both professionals and consumers. These trends are likely to drive the adoption of smart lighting technologies and pave the way for a more connected and intelligent lighting ecosystem in the future which Signify is at the forefront to deliver.
As someone deeply involved in industry standards and education, what key skills or knowledge areas do you think future lighting professionals need to focus on to stay ahead in this changing landscape?
Future lighting professionals need to focus on developing a diverse set of skills and knowledge areas to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving industry landscape. Signify has training programmes for many skillsets and future-proofing requirements. However, the following are just some of the key areas for attention for future lighting professionals.
1. Technical expertise: Lighting professionals should have a strong foundation in lighting design principles, photometry, colour science and understanding of lighting technologies such as LEDs, controls and sensors. Keeping up-to-date with the latest advancements in lighting technology is crucial for staying competitive in the industry.
2. Data analytics and AI: Proficiency in data analytics and AI technologies is becoming increasingly important in the lighting industry. Professionals should be able to leverage data-driven insights to optimise lighting systems, enhance energy efficiency and deliver personalised lighting experiences for consumers.
3. Sustainability and green building practices: With a growing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, future lighting professionals need to have a solid understanding of green building practices, energy codes and regulations. Knowledge of sustainable lighting design strategies and technologies will be essential for designing environmentally friendly lighting solutions.
4. Communication and collaboration: Effective communication skills are crucial for lighting professionals to collaborate with clients, architects, engineers and other stakeholders throughout the lighting design and implementation process. Professionals should be able to effectively communicate complex lighting concepts and solutions to diverse audiences.
5. Project management: Lighting professionals should possess strong project management skills to successfully plan, execute and deliver lighting projects on time and within budget. Understanding project management methodologies, scheduling and budgeting will be essential for managing lighting projects effectively.
6. Continuous learning and adaptability: The lighting industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging regularly. Future lighting professionals should embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability to stay updated with industry developments and enhance their skillset to meet evolving market demands.
By focusing on these key skills and knowledge areas, future lighting professionals can position themselves as industry leaders and innovators, capable of driving positive change and shaping the future of lighting design and technology. Signify can support and provide all the above expertise and knowledge and more in the pursuit of brighter lives and a better world.
