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THE ROLE OF LIGHTING

IN SMARTER, MORE

EFFICIENT BUILDINGS

Mario Giordano, Global Head of Public & Government Affairs, Signify

Why smart LED lighting is a cornerstone of Renovation: a window of opportunity
sustainable building design In Europe, 85% of structures were constructed
Globally, buildings—both residential and before the year 2000, and 75% lag behind in energy
commercial—account for nearly 30% of all energy efficiency. Renovation is therefore a strategic
use and approximately a quarter of energy-related priority. With the adoption of the updated Energy
emissions, according to the IEA. In the U.S., that Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) in May
figure rises to 40% of total energy consumption, 2024, the EU is leading the charge with stringent
largely because much of the current building goals, such as:
infrastructure is outdated and energy-inefficient.
• Net-zero emissions for all new public buildings
by 2026
One of the most impactful steps toward
decarbonizing the built environment is transitioning • Enhanced energy performance requirements for
to connected LED lighting systems. These systems existing buildings
significantly curb energy use, reduce emissions and • This framework positions energy-efficient
enhance the quality of indoor environments where lighting solutions as a central enabler in meeting
people live, learn and work. those objectives.

Lighting’s influence on net zero goals Beyond energy savings: broader benefits of
Lighting in buildings contributes to up to 27% LED upgrades
of global end-use electricity consumption. A For both households and businesses, investing
significant factor behind this high percentage in smart lighting systems delivers multifaceted
is the continued reliance on inefficient, legacy advantages:
lighting technologies in nearly half of all buildings
• Lower energy bills and maintenance needs due
worldwide.
to the long lifespan of LEDs
• Better illumination quality for comfort, health
The IEA’s Net-Zero Energy (NZE) scenario outlines
and well-being
that building energy demand must fall by 25%,
• Intelligent automation that adapts to occupancy
and fossil fuel reliance must drop by 40% by 2030.
and daylight levels
Upgrading to LEDs—and further, to connected
LED systems—offers a fast, cost-efficient route to • Versatile lighting control that enhances focus,
achieving those targets. mood and efficiency
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