Why would you spend $1,000+ on a light meter when there are ones available for less than $50?

Here’s our thoughts, from the perspective of an engineer and not a salesman.

Due to the erratic nature of renewable energy generation and the lack of electric vehicles available in Australia, the strides we have taken to replace fossil fuel-based energy have been small. As a consumer, it can feel like where we get our energy from is out of our control, particularly with the cost associated with electric vehicles, solar panels, and solar stationary battery systems.

Fortunately, our options are opening up.

The underlying function of ‘smart’ electrical and electronic technologies is to enhance autonomy, efficiency, and safety. However when designing for remote and regional locations, it’s often better to keep it simple, stupid.

While it appears that the Federal Government is not committing to Net Zero Emissions by 2050, most of the private sector are doing their part to reach this goal. This is because, in many cases, it’s essential for their business, but also because it’s actually not that difficult to achieve.

So, what role does HVAC play in a Zero Emission Economy?

Artificial light has many advantages in the outdoor environment. It provides safe passageway for pedestrians and vehicles, improves the security around buildings and environments, enhances sporting and recreational activities, and is used for aesthetic or accent appearances. But where does that benefit become more of a hinderance?

Unlike the air conditioning industry which has seen significant improvements in energy efficiency standards through multiple iterations of the NCC, cold rooms have had almost no advancements in terms of technology or energy efficiency.

In Victoria, if a new lighting pole installation exceeds a height of 8m, then a building permit is required. This building approval requirement is atypical for external lighting pole installations as they are not generally associated with buildings.

A solution to the urban sprawl is to make existing sporting facilities more accessible during the day and into the night. While the investment in sports lighting infrastructure is necessary, it should not be obtrusive to nearby residents, transportation users and environmentally sensitive areas.