Salmon Arm School
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The story
Brighter classrooms, happier students and teachers
Dan Horochuk, Manager of Operations, School District 83.
The situation
The lighting systems at the Ranchero Drive and Parkview Elementary school facilities in Salmon Arm-like many older schools-supported less energy efficient T12 fluorescent technology and magnetic ballasts, and a design that fell short in providing a quality environment for students and staff.
Inadequate illumination levels in some of the classrooms impacted the visual comfort of students and teachers, while other classrooms were over lit, wasting energy and money for both schools. Glare from the lights added to the discomfort of the occupants, and single light switching offered teachers no opportunity to adjust light levels to suit their needs.
The solution
A team of Power Smart specialists visited the schools to conduct a full analysis of the lighting systems.
The team successfully upgraded the systems to today's energy efficiency standards with the following cost-effective lighting technologies:
- T8 fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts,
- checkerboard light switching,
- occupancy sensors
"BC Hydro implemented improvements while meeting our objectives for quality lighting, and a high standard of workmanship, with minimal disruption to the students and teachers. It's a Power Smart Solution we plan to carry over to our remaining 30 school facilities," says Dan Horochuk, manager of operations, School District 83.
The benefits
Improved quality of lighting
New lights provided higher illumination levels and better colour rendition—closer to the natural colour of daylight. Deep-cell parabolic luminaires reduced glare on students' and staff's computer screens.
Flexible illumination
Checkerboard light switching offered teachers three levels of light adjustments. And occupancy sensors in washrooms automatically switch lights off when not in use.
Reduced energy and maintenance costs
Efficient lighting and a reduction of lamps per fixture lowered energy use by as much as 37%. Increased lamp efficiency represents savings in energy and maintenance costs of more than $3,000 annually.
Increased comfort
New ballasts eliminated humming noise and light flicker. Higher lighting levels, better colour rendition and reduced glare dramatically improved visual comfort for the students and teachers.
Contact us
Find out how our Power Smart projects can help maximize the performance of your facility's lighting system, while reducing energy costs. Call your BC Hydro representative or Contact us today.
Last Modified: Jun 11, 2003
