Security made clearer with LED lighting
January 20, 2009
The on-going problem with many security lighting is lack of clarity and poor CCT images, or un-serviceable globes. These two problems are related to the technologies used. It’s true that lighting has become brighter and longer lasting, but and there is a big but. The new technologies come at a cost and it’s not just the initial investment or complaints from the neighbours and Local Councils because of the glare, or light pollution. Operating costs of 200W+ lamps are mounting up. Clients are taking power operating costs more seriously and in these difficult times want to ensure they are achieving savings on power and can claim to be more ‘carbon neutral’. This is difficult when relying on old technologies.
Let’s take the ‘seeing’ problem, it’s all to do with how the ‘eye’ sees, or more accurately responds to light waves how our brain then processes them into images. We are all aware that daylight changes colour throughout the day, from the brightness of morning and noon light to the softer warmer colours of late afternoon and sunset. In technical terms the light spectrum has shifted from the ‘blue’ end of the spectrum (400-500nm) at noon to ‘red’ (600-700nm) in the afternoon. The cones and rods in the eyes respond differently to these wave lengths.
Why should this be a problem? To see clearly we need daylight, called cool white in LED terms with a Kelvin (K) score of 5000+, in contrast warm white is often between 2300K and 3500K. The ‘blue shifted’ light is better seen and ideal for security.
The ‘blue shift’ can be specified with LED lighting, i.e. cool white with nominated K readings.
As we age we also lose our ability to process warm white effectively. We literally need brighter lights to read/see. This has implications for lighting of pathways, walkways and car parks.
An example of a car park, one with LED and the other high pressure sodium (on right).
LED Lighting in tunnels and street lighting produces daylight style light for ease of sight, improving safety and giving much longer maintenance life-cycles >50,000 hours.
Other practical benefits of LED lighting, apart from the 80%+ power saving are much less heat, you can touch an LED without burning your hand, shock and dust resistance, drop them and they still work, weather proof ( up to IP68) and no UV light is produced, i.e. no attraction to insects, is recyclable. Plus high power factor (>0.9) performance, a further incentive for power saving.
LED’s produce high lumens per watt. In general this exceeds 100 lumens per watt and 150 lumens per watt products are already on the market. Light output is now more than adequate for security situations; with the added benefit of removing ‘light pollution’ and minimising glare issues.
Renewable Energy Target next step to White Paper
December 17, 2008
Following a more detailed review of the federal government’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) white paper, the Clean Energy Council has prepared the following summary on key aspects relating to the urgent development and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures.
The industry is encouraged by the government’s move to maintain momentum by starting the scheme in 2010 and highlighting the importance of stabilising greenhouse gas concentrations at around 450ppm CO2-e.
However, the shallow initial targets and the anticipated low carbon prices will not drive the significant transformations needed in the Australian energy sector. This approach can only be justified if the government moves immediately to deploy a suite of complementary measures to drive multi-billion dollar investment in clean energy technologies and drive energy efficiency in homes and businesses.
Carbon Price
Australia’s emissions trading scheme will get going in 2010 with the white paper assuming a starting price of around $25 per tonne. The price of emissions is set to be capped at $40 per tonne escalating at 5% real per annum. This rate is too low on its own to trigger investment in large scale renewables. Allowing importing of emissions credits means the eventual carbon price is likely to be driven by international rather than Australian activity.
Renewable Energy Target (RET)
The white paper signalled progress for the design and implementation of the expanded renewable energy target, reiterating the introduction of a 20 per cent by 2020 goal. Draft RET legislation is due for release later today.
This will release more than $20 billion of new investment, help drive immediate cuts in emissions and may help cushion the cost of transition to a low-carbon economy.
The white paper states that legislative and regulatory amendments to implement the design of the Renewable Energy Target are expected to be in place by July 2009, with revised targets commencing from 2010.
The Clean Energy Council is concerned that the proposed RET will be phased out between 2020 and 2030. Modelling undertaken for the Council indicates that to ensure the success of the RET in achieving 45,000GWh of new renewable generation in 2020, the target and the penalty price need to be maintained until 2030.
Climate Change Action Fund (CCAF)
The white paper announced a new measure, the CCAF, to assist smaller businesses and community groups invest in cleaner technologies and energy efficiency measures. These companies and groups will otherwise not benefit from compensation measures highlighted in the paper.
The Clean Energy Council welcomes measures like these to encourage the deployment of low emissions technologies like bioenergy, geothermal, wind, oceanic, solar as well as energy efficiency. The CCAF is scheduled to commence in the second half of 2009, ahead of the start of emissions trading. The early deployment of this fund will help smaller businesses and community groups to prepare for the start of the CPRS in 2010.
Principles to guide the implementation of complementary measures
Importantly the white paper has, for the first time, outlined a set of principles by which all complementary measures will be developed. This will serve as a useful guide for future discussion relating to emission reductions. The principles focus on delivering against specific market failures, and must ensure efficiency, effectiveness, equity and administrative simplicity.
Renewable Energy Fund
As revealed by Prime Minister Rudd on Sunday, the Renewable Energy Fund announced in the May budget will be brought forward to be spent over the next 18 months rather than the original five year timeframe. This fund includes $15m for second generation biofuels and $50m specifically for geothermal drilling.
The remainder of the fund will go towards large scale demonstration projects that will deliver technology from the laboratory straight to homes and businesses, helping to prove a project’s viability on a technical and economic basis.
Under the fund, the private sector must contribute at least $2 for every $1 provided by the government. The fund will be launched in the New Year with the release of guidelines for applicants and a call for a first round of applications.
This investment is expected to provide great impetus for the early development of geothermal, solar thermal, bioenergy and ocean generation projects.
What Next?
The government has outlined a comprehensive work program on the development and deployment of complementary measures to deploy clean energy technologies and drive energy efficiency. These include:
• draft Renewable Energy Target (RET) legislation due out today
• RET legislative and regulatory amendments in place by mid 2009 and starting in 2010
• development of a national energy efficiency strategy in early 2009
• deployment of the Renewable Energy Fund in early 2009, and
• release of the draft Climate Change Action Fund (CCAF) in February 2009 ahead of the program launch in mid to late 2009.
It’s imperative that the implementation of these complementary measures are simple, efficient and effective so as not to compromise the accelerated development or deployment of any technology or measure. The only way this planned soft start to Australia’s emissions trading scheme will work is by enabling rapid, large scale investment towards renewable energy and energy efficiency measures that reduce emissions immediately.
The Clean Energy Council will continue to work closely with all levels of government to ensure these initiatives are realised and Australia’s energy future remains secure.
Written and published by The Clean Energy Council, the peak body for the clean energy sector, is working with all Australian governments to ensure a secure and diversified energy sector; reducing energy waste including the take up of solar water heating and insulation; and more clean energy sources in our stationary energy mix from solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, bioenergy and gas.
Solar Power and Hot Water Together Make Energy Sense
December 11, 2008
Did you know that if you team up solar power with your largest user of electricity, your hot water, you can significantly reduce your future power costs with the added benefits of reducing CO2 emissions and making your home more sustainable? Eco Living Centre’s founder, Alistair Duncan, explains how.
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| Solahart Thermosiphon System |
Combined with a 1kW Photovoltaic System |
Eco Living Centre joins Ausbuy
November 28, 2008
ECO LIVING CENTRE is the latest AUSBUY member. Lynne Wilkinson, CEO of AUSBUY says “ECO LIVING CENTRE encapsulates all that is special about Australian owned businesses. It has been a leader in advising, supplying and installing some of the most innovative products in water and energy saving products, especially those initiated in Australia, and represents all that AUSBUY supports in Australia; a clever, innovative and productive country. AUSBUY welcomes their membership and encourages consumers, businesses and governments to support Australian owned businesses like ECO LIVING CENTRE”.
Solar Power Can Thrive In Australia
November 21, 2008
New modelling shows sun can shine on Australian solar power
NATIONAL: Australia is in a strong position to develop a thriving national solar industry over the next 20 years, according to a report into the renewable energy sector released today by the Clean Energy Council (CEC).
The report, undertaken by Access Economics, provides a compelling economic case for the implementation of a gross national feed-in tariff in Australia.
“What this shows is that with the right policy and investment, there’s a strong future for sustainable and profitable growth in Australia’s renewable energy sector,” said CEO of the Clean Energy Council, Matthew Warren.
“Australia’s share of the global solar market has fallen from seven per cent in 1992 to one per cent in 2007 - despite having the highest average solar radiation of any country in the world, Australia significantly lags behind other countries in its investment in the solar industry.”
The report shows a gross national FIT would drive investment in solar PV systems by the commercial and residential sectors, assuming 3,000 MW of capacity is deployed, of up to $17.9 billion over the next 20 years (NPV at 5.7 per cent).
Solar industries in other countries that have adopted a national gross feed-in tariff have developed strong industries that encourage take-up of solar through consumer earnings and cost savings.
“The report shows a gross feed-in tariff will be the trigger for strong investment - and growth - in the solar sector,” Mr Warren said.
“This kind of policy in Australia could help reduce residential and commercial demand for energy and help deliver electricity on hot sunny days when it is the most valuable.
“As a result, the modelling suggests solar energy can defer investment in gas-peaking plans”.
The Access Economics report records the sharp increase in deployment of solar panels in Australia since 2007 when the increased federal government rebate triggered increased awareness and affordability of the technology.
The report also states Australia’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) and Mandatory Renewable Energy Target (MRET) may be insufficient to drive significant investment in the solar sector.
“A gross feed-in tariff is entirely complimentary to a CPRS and a 20% MRET, but it’s important to note that currently, less than one per cent of the MRET comes from solar sources,” said Mr Warren.
Eco Living Centre Appointed the Solahart Lower North Shore Distributor
October 27, 2008
Hot water break down? Want to go solar, but not sure how to go about it? Eco Living Centre is the newly appointed Solahart Lower North Shore distributor and can provide a 24 hour service to install your Solahart system.You’ll benefit from free hot water from the sun, saving between 50-90% of your hot water bills, and feel good knowing that you are doing the right thing saving CO2 emissions.
Alistair Duncan, founder of Eco Living Centre, says, “We are delighted to be appointed as the Solahart Lower North Shore Distributor. It means we can respond quickly to any request to install a new Solahart hot water system, anywhere in the lower North Shore, from Mosman to Epping, across to Ryde and down to Woolwich. It’s an ideal time for anyone wanting to save on their energy bills; after all they are only going to get more expensive.
“A Solahart system gives you peace of mind and safeguards you against those ever increasing bills. You have more than enough hot water for your needs. Originally developed here in Australia nearly a century ago, the range today is extensive. Our trained consultants are on hand to advise on the best system for the householders’ needs. Our emergency response team can ensure that a new hot water system is installed quickly.”
“Eco Living Centre can also advise you about the Government rebates,which make solar hot water a very attractive proposition with up to $3000 available, depending on the system. Our showroom at 236 Victoria Road, Gladesville offers a comprehensive range of water and energy saving products from water tanks to LED lighting, ideal for the householder or business, and including Solahart hot water systems that offer a great investment in energy saving. Homes featuring sustainable systems not only save money, they add value to your property.” Call Eco Living Centre on 1300 308 823 or visit the showroom.
PowerFilm Take Your Creature Comforts with You While You Harness Nature’s Energy
October 13, 2008
Take Your Creature Comforts with You While You Harness Nature’s Energy
Planning a journey into Australia’s bush or waterways, or wanting to spend time in your country shed or tent? Then Eco Living Centre offers a range of energy efficient products to ensure your creature comforts and safety, while you bask in the glories of nature. These energy products include PowerFilm solar panels and battery chargers, usable on land or sea; Thermilate paint additive to insulate your caravan, home or shed, and low wattage LED lights for safety.
Available exclusively in Australia from Eco Living Centre, PowerFilm Solar makes recreational, commercial or military foldable solar chargers. Custom chargers are also available. First, PowerFilm Foldable Solar Chargers are extremely lightweight, compact and durable. Designed for when you need remote power for laptops, mobile and satellite phones and GPS units. They can even power 3W and 5W LEDs to light your tent or LED strips in a caravan or vehicle. With five different sizes from 5 W to 60W, the Chargers can be combined with standard PowerFilm accessories to handle almost any charging need. The largest chargers can easily be stored in a backpack and the 5W will fit into a pocket.
Second, PowerFilm Rollable Battery Chargers come in 5W, 10W or 20W models. When handling, do not bend the panel. Rolled out flat it can be left permanently on a shed or caravan roof where it gets full sun, maintained properly and secured against damage from high winds. Wipe dry with a cloth when wet. It is water resistant. When not in use disconnect the battery. Third, PowerFilm AA Foldable Solar Charger recharge 2W and 4W AA batteries.
PowerFilm Solar Chargers are durable, UV and weather resistant, usable in difficult and diverse environments from the hottest to coldest conditions. They come with easy to follow instructions, and warranty applies if handled correctly.
Part of Eco Living Centre’s comprehensive range of energy and water saving products which can help a building achieve beyond 5 Star ratings whether as new or retrofit or enjoy a remote location with your creature comforts and in safety.
Just ask: Eco Living Centre will design, specify, supply, deliver and install.
Available anywhere in Australia from Eco Living Centre phone 1300 308 823
To Check out the range available click here
Government announces proposed carbon trading framework, reporting on emissions now mandatory
October 10, 2008
Government announces proposed carbon trading framework, reporting on emissions now mandatory
On 16 July, the government released its Green Paper on the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. It proposes to set up an emissions trading scheme which will begin in 2010. The proposal is a cap and trade system which will effectively place a price on carbon emissions to reduce emissions and link with similar schemes which operate overseas.
The Green Paper itself is very detailed and runs to 532 pages and sets out the government’s preferred position on a permit scheme to reduce Australia’s carbon emissions to prevent or alleviate climate change.
While the scheme is intended to be very broad in coverage, the government also recognises the effect on emissions-intensive industries in the traded sector by proposing to allocate a number of free permits to the most affected activities. Also as a transitional measure, it proposes to provide a limited amount of direct assistance to ‘strongly affected industries’ including electricity generators with existing coal-fired power stations. In the longer term, there is intended to be a price cap if the price of carbon permits rises beyond a certain level.
The government proposes to establish an independent scheme regulator and to conduct independent reviews of the scheme every five years. The regulator - analogous to regulators like ASIC and the ACCC - would be responsible for auctioning and allocating permits, maintaining the emissions registry, monitoring and enforcing compliance and reporting to government.
The scheme would be established under commonwealth legislation with the states and territories engaging through the Council of Australian Governments.
It is intended that exposure draft legislation will be released for comment by the end of 2008.
Further, the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007 came into effect on 1 July 2008. Controlling corporations of company groups that exceed the stated thresholds now have to report greenhouse gas emissions, reductions, removals and offsets, and energy consumption and production. The legislation also imposes penalties for non-compliance. The reporting regime dovetails with the emissions trading regime and is intended to:
● provide data as an input to the proposed emissions trading scheme
● allow reporting of abatements and offsets prior to emissions trading
● provide information to the public on greenhouse and energy performance.
Controlling corporations (or facilities under their control) must register and report if they emit greenhouse gases, produce energy, or consume the specified quantities of energy each financial year. Corporations are required to register and report if:
● their corporate group emits 125 kilotonnes or more greenhouse gas CO2 equivalent (CO2-e), or produces or consumes 500 terajoules or more of energy or
● they control facilities that emit 25 kilotonnes or more of CO2-e, or produce or consume 100 terajoules or more of energy.
Tighter reporting requirements will be phased in over subsequent financial years. Companies must register by 31 August, and report by 31 October, following the financial year in which they meet a threshold. Data will be published subsequently.
Garnaut Empowers the People But Will Government Seize the Moment?
September 30, 2008
Duncan says “there is a lot of misinformation in the market place. Eco Living Centre has informed those responsible in business for making the decisions and paying the water and energy bills. But while these resources are still relatively inexpensive inertia happens.
“In reality the technologies are already available to get us started and we have been slow in Australia to take these up. The US, UK, Europe and China are already using the sun’s resources more effectively. Not only did the Olympic Games deliver great entertainment and medals, China showcased technical innovations such as energy efficient LEDs lighting the Stadium. The opening ceremony was LEDs. Eco Living Centre has been sourcing and supplying innovative products already proven overseas to those enlightened businesses who understand that the causes and the solutions are our responsibility. Even government departments are slow to change.
“This is not about fear but reality. And we can start today by creating less demand on our limited supply of energy and water - limited because of lack of infrastructure. Climate change gives us an opportunity to develop new industries.
“With realignment of the economies, and as an innovative country Australia has the opportunity to nurture solution-technologies, but it is no use reinventing the wheel. Other countries are spending significantly more than us. Resources spend on hope, should be directed to implementing real sustainable outcomes today. Garnaut has empowered the people, let’s hope that governments can do the same”.
ACF on design of the carbon pollution reduction scheme
July 17, 2008
The Australian Conservation Foundation has welcomed the 2010 start date and the inclusion of transport in the Federal Government’s ‘carbon pollution reduction scheme’, but said the scheme’s emphasis on compensation for electricity generators would weaken its effectiveness.
“Polluting industries that have spent the last decade doing little or nothing to prepare for a carbon-constrained economy should not get a golden handshake,” said ACF climate change program manager Tony Mohr.
“The more compensation that goes to big polluters, the bigger the financial burden on the poor, the most vulnerable and rural Australians.”
On the inclusion of transport in the scheme, Mr Mohr said: “Transport generates about 14 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse pollution, so it’s important these emissions are counted in the scheme.
“Cutting fuel excise will hardly make a difference to family budgets – in fact it means the Government will have less money to invest in public transport and building more efficient cars. Better public transport will provide the long-term solution to petrol price rises and our greenhouse emission problems.
“While Ross Garnaut recommended half the permit revenue should go to households, the Government has not indicated what percentage of the money raised by the scheme would go towards helping households and companies become more energy efficient.
“Government help for households and companies to be more efficient with lighting and heating, to install insulation and efficient hot water systems will cut emissions – and energy bills.
“The scheme’s recognition of the greenhouse benefits of tree planting but its failure to recognise the emissions generated by tree clearing is unbalanced and disappointing.
“The key test for this emissions trading scheme will be whether it succeeds in dramatically cutting Australia’s greenhouse pollution in the crucial period before 2020.”
Article From http://www.acfonline.org.au/articles/news.asp?news_id=1840
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