Determining the critical point for design, analysis, and commissioning of a photocontrolled dimming system

摘要

Over the last decade, low energy solutions have increased in importance within the building design community. Designers are often tasked with finding means to cut energy by 20-30% or more. Since electric lighting accounts for approximately 35% of a commercial building's electricity use, it is addressed in many energy savings strategies [1]. In addition, building energy codes are beginning to force the use of daylight-responsive electric lighting controls in daylit spaces, but challenges include manufacturer recommendations, commissioning instructions, and processes that are often vague. One paper suggests that many of these systems are improperly commissioned and therefore fail to achieve their desired energy performance goals [2].