Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. Nears Commercialization of Energy-Efficient LED Lighting System

Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. announced on October 20, 2005 that it may soon be able to commercially market a light-emitting diode (LED) system that uses 40 to 50 percent less energy than conventional fluorescent lights. As part of a CO2 emission reduction project commissioned by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment, the company has been working together with the Pollution Control Center of Osaka Prefecture on the development of energy efficient lighting technology using white LEDs, while evaluating the results of experiments that have been carried out since April 2004.

Experiments were conducted to monitor how much energy is saved when LED test appliances are used in actual workplaces. The results showed that the new system of applying LED spotlights where workers need to see documents, etc. clearly, while ambient lights illuminate the whole room, consumed only 490 watts, about 60 percent of the 790 watts consumed by conventional fluorescent lamps. According to their estimates, improved LED elements will further bring this figure down to 390 watts (a 50 percent reduction) by 2007.

The LED lighting system uses a lower level of brightness in the ceiling area, while desk lamps or spot lights ensure sufficient brightness at work areas, thus achieving lower total electric power consumption. This practice is not widespread in Japan, however, because it makes the room darker overall, creating a gloomy atmosphere. Matsushita carried out an evaluation of the psychological effects of lighting in order to create lighting that is both energy-efficient and pleasing by using appliances with sparkle LED and fluorescent lights on the walls for ambient lighting, and white LED standing lamps for "Task Lighting" in the work area. By the end of March 2006, Matsushita plans to release a summary of detailed requirements for widespread application of new energy-efficient lighting appliances. It hopes to promote more energy-efficient LED lighting appliances by expanding the types and models it produces.

http://panasonic-denko.co.jp/e/corp/eco/pdfs/09_10.pdf

Posted: 2006/02/26 12:09:15 PM
Japanese version