Maximizing Energy Savings with LED Lighting and Networked Controls
For large commercial buildings with high operating hours, combining LED lighting upgrades with advanced networked lighting controls is one of the most effective ways to achieve substantial, long-term energy savings. In this multi-floor retrofit project, we upgraded lighting across three office levels and a multi-level parking garage, delivering significant cost reductions, better lighting performance, and improved employee comfort.
We knew upgrading our lighting would help with energy costs, but we had no idea just how impactful the results would be. Wright Energy Partners not only helped us secure over $100,000 in rebates, but they also designed a system that runs itself. The networked controls have been a game changer—our lights only come on when needed, and we’re saving money every single day. In just over a year, the project paid for itself, and now we’re looking at over $1.6 million in savings over the next decade. It’s one of the smartest investments we’ve made in the building. - Facilities Director
Office Floors
On floors 1 through 3, we replaced outdated fluorescent lighting with ultra-efficient LED basket troffer retrofit kits. These kits allowed us to retain the existing fixture housings, minimizing material waste and reducing labor time. By choosing this method instead of installing all-new fixtures, we saved our client over $20,000 in installation costs alone.
These new fixtures deliver not only higher efficiency, but also a modernized aesthetic and improved light quality. Each kit features low-wattage LEDs with long rated lifespans, reducing both energy usage and future maintenance costs.
To further increase efficiency, we installed networked lighting controls on each floor. These systems allow lights to activate only in occupied zones—perfect for late-night or off-hour use. When a single employee works late, lights automatically illuminate just their area and shut off when no motion is detected. This granular level of control helps minimize unnecessary runtime and contributes significantly to the building’s energy savings.
Parking Garage: Safety, Efficiency, and Aesthetic Appeal
The parking garage required a complete fixture replacement. We selected LED edge-lit panels that simulate the appearance of skylights—providing a clean, bright, and visually appealing environment. These fixtures offer wide light distribution while using a fraction of the energy of traditional garage lighting.
As in the office space, we installed networked occupancy-based lighting controls throughout the garage. Only a minimal number of lights stay on for security, while the rest activate as vehicles or pedestrians move through different zones. This approach maintains safety while dramatically reducing overall electricity consumption.
Results: A Model for High-Impact Energy Projects
The financial and environmental benefits of this project are compelling—and representative of the type of results we strive to deliver on every project.
Project Financials:
- Total Utility Rebate: $101,000
- Payback Period: 13 months
- Estimated 10-Year Electricity Savings: Over $1.6 million
These results highlight the compounding value of combining LED lighting with intelligent controls. While LEDs alone offer a strong return, maximizing their efficiency through strategic controls—such as zone-based activation, occupancy sensors, and time scheduling—elevates savings to the next level.
Results in numbers
Payback Period in Months
First Year ROI
Total Positive Cash Flow (Years 1-10)
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