UG starts large-scale replacement operation to smart LED lighting

The University of Groningen is embarking on a large-scale project to replace all non-energy-efficient indoor lighting in its buildings. Outdated light sources and luminaires will be replaced with smart and energy-efficient LED lighting systems. Around 40,000 luminaires will be renewed over the next few years. Combined with daylight-dependent control and motion detectors, the energy savings for the university can be substantial. In addition, ease of use and comfort for staff and students will be improved. The replacement operation will be carried out by BAM Bouw en Techniek and will start from the second quarter of 2024.

‘It will unfortunately not be a matter of taking out an old bulb and screwing in a new one,’ stresses Marten Vellema, working at the UG's Real Estate Organization. ‘We'll replace the entire luminaire and these are then connected in groups. Also, in many cases the light switches are replaced by sensors.' While the replacement will be simple and smooth in some locations, in others the ceiling will have to be completely opened up and some of the wiring reinstalled. 'Of course, we will try to minimize any inconvenience to users.'

Smart lighting

Adding sensors to lighting results in a more intelligent system. Thanks to these sensors, the light only switches on where and when it is needed. Moreover, the brightness will be automatically adjusted depending on factors such as the amount of light in the room and the type of use. The same sensors could also contribute to other smart applications in the future, such as smarter ventilation or the gathering of parameters in buildings. To this end, a Smart Buildings project is ongoing within the university.

Depending on the current old lighting being replaced on site, the UG expects to use 50-80% less energy for lighting in the long run.

European tender

Recently, the contract was awarded through a European tender to BAM Bouw en Techniek, who is carrying out this project in collaboration with lighting partner Maas & Hagoort. They chose to equip the lighting with a wireless switching system. ‘This has the advantage that we reduce the number of operations in the various rooms of the UG locations. With the chosen system, we create comfortable technology and the UG is ready for the future,’ said Simon Wijbenga, project manager at BAM. About 40,000 luminaires are to be replaced in a few years' time and then maintained for the university for the next ten years.

Planning

Firt, UG buildings will be tackled where the most gains can be made or where the lighting is most in need of replacement, such as the complex at the Faculty of Medical Sciences and at KVI. In determining the priorities, the building strategy labels that the UG has linked to all buildings were used. This does not include buildings that have recently been converted to the appropriate LED lighting systems, buildings where large-scale maintenance or renovation projects are already scheduled or buildings that the UG intends to dispose of. All other interior lighting will be replaced university-wide in a few years. This will be taken up in coordination with the building managers. A detailed schedule will follow later.