EN 15193 Energy Performance Certification Testing of Building Lighting Systems
Introduction to EN 15193:
The European Standard EN 15193:2018, titled "Energy performance of building lighting systems - Determination of energy consumption and power demand," provides a framework for assessing the energy efficiency of lighting systems installed in buildings. This standard is crucial for ensuring that new installations, retrofits, and existing lighting systems meet stringent energy-saving requirements.
The scope of EN 15193 covers all types of building lighting systems, including luminaires (light fittings), control gear, and associated ancillary equipment used for artificial lighting in non-residential buildings. The standard is designed to be applied at the system level rather than focusing solely on individual components.
The primary objective of EN 15193 is to provide a methodology for measuring energy consumption and power demand under realistic operating conditions, which allows stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding lighting design and installation. This ensures that buildings comply with national and international regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development.
Testing Methodology:
The testing process outlined in EN 15193 involves several key steps, each designed to ensure accurate measurement of energy performance:
- System Configuration: The lighting system is configured according to the intended use and operating conditions. This includes setting up the luminaire with appropriate control gear and connecting it to a power supply.
- Data Collection: Measurements are taken over representative periods of time, typically covering different occupancy scenarios such as peak usage hours and low-occupancy periods. Monitoring equipment captures data on voltage, current, and energy consumption.
- Analytical Tools: Software tools are used to process the collected data, calculating key metrics like power factor, apparent power, real power, and reactive power. These calculations provide insight into how efficiently the lighting system operates under various conditions.
The results of these tests contribute to the certification process, ensuring that the installed lighting systems meet or exceed energy efficiency targets set by regulatory bodies.
Importance in Compliance:
EN 15193 plays a pivotal role in helping organizations comply with various national and international regulations related to energy efficiency. For example, it supports compliance with the EcoDesign Directive (EU Regulation No. 2017/1184), which mandates that products placed on the market demonstrate minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle.
For quality managers and R&D engineers, this standard offers a robust framework for evaluating new designs and innovations in building lighting systems. Compliance officers can use EN 15193 to ensure that all installed systems meet legal requirements while also contributing to broader sustainability goals. Procurement teams benefit by having clear criteria for selecting suppliers who provide energy-efficient solutions.
Real-World Applications:
In practice, EN 15193 has been used in numerous projects across Europe and beyond. For instance, it was instrumental in certifying the lighting systems of large commercial buildings like shopping malls and office complexes. By ensuring these installations meet stringent energy consumption limits, it contributes significantly to reducing overall building energy costs.
Another example includes its role in validating retrofit projects where existing lights are replaced with more efficient models. Through rigorous testing, EN 15193 helps demonstrate the positive environmental impact of such upgrades, thereby supporting sustainable practices within organizations.
Conclusion:
In summary, EN 15193 provides a comprehensive approach to assessing energy performance in building lighting systems. Its application ensures that installations not only meet regulatory requirements but also contribute positively towards reducing environmental impacts. As part of our testing and certification services portfolio, Eurolab offers expertise in conducting thorough evaluations based on this standard.
Scope and Methodology
The scope of EN 15193 is broad enough to cover a wide range of applications within building lighting systems. It applies to both new installations as well as existing ones undergoing modifications or retrofits. The standard focuses on determining the actual energy consumption and power demand during typical operational modes, which helps in understanding how efficiently the system operates.
For instance, when testing newly installed luminaires, the methodology involves setting up the equipment according to its intended use case. This includes connecting it to a suitable power supply and ensuring that all associated control gears are functioning correctly. Similarly, for existing systems being retrofitted, the process entails disconnecting old components and replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient alternatives while maintaining continuity in service.
Once configured appropriately, continuous monitoring is carried out over extended periods to gather accurate data on various parameters such as current drawn, voltage supplied, and overall power consumption. These measurements form the basis for subsequent analysis using specialized software tools that calculate important indicators like apparent power, real power, reactive power, and power factor.
The results of these tests are then compared against predetermined thresholds specified in EN 15193 to determine whether or not the lighting system complies with established standards. Compliance indicates that the installation is operating efficiently within acceptable limits, thus meeting both regulatory requirements and sustainability objectives.
Eurolab Advantages
Comprehensive Expertise:
At Eurolab, our team of experienced engineers and technicians brings extensive knowledge in conducting EN 15193 certification tests. With years of industry experience, we understand the nuances involved in ensuring accurate measurements and reliable results.
We stay updated on all relevant standards and regulations, including recent amendments to EN 15193, allowing us to provide clients with cutting-edge testing capabilities that align perfectly with current best practices.
Advanced Equipment:
Our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art measuring instruments designed specifically for energy performance assessment. These high-precision devices ensure precise readings and minimize human error during data collection, leading to more accurate assessments of lighting system efficiency.
In addition to standard testing equipment, we also have access to specialized tools necessary for evaluating advanced features like dimming capabilities or occupancy sensors that enhance overall energy savings further.
Client-Centric Approach:
We recognize that every client has unique needs and priorities when it comes to lighting system certification. Therefore, our approach is tailored specifically to meet those requirements while providing comprehensive support throughout the entire process.
This includes offering detailed guidance on preparing for testing, interpreting results, and implementing necessary adjustments based on findings. By working closely with clients from start to finish, we ensure they receive the best possible service and outcomes.
Timely Delivery:
Understanding that time is of utmost importance in many projects, Eurolab prioritizes efficiency without compromising quality. Our streamlined processes allow us to complete EN 15193 certification tests promptly while maintaining high standards throughout the evaluation process.
This ensures clients can proceed with confidence knowing their installations are not only compliant but also optimized for maximum energy savings and sustainability benefits.
Environmental and Sustainability Contributions
The implementation of EN 15193 certification testing has significant environmental and sustainability contributions. By rigorously assessing the energy performance of building lighting systems, this standard helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with artificial lighting in buildings across Europe.
In residential and commercial settings alike, inefficient lighting can contribute substantially to overall electricity consumption. Through EN 15193 certification tests, organizations are encouraged to adopt more sustainable practices by identifying opportunities for improvement within their existing installations or during new projects.
One key benefit of adhering to this standard lies in its potential to extend the lifespan of light sources and reduce waste generated from frequent replacements. By ensuring that luminaires operate efficiently under typical operating conditions, less energy is consumed over time, leading to lower operational costs for property owners while simultaneously benefiting the environment.
Moreover, EN 15193 supports broader sustainability goals by promoting the use of renewable energy sources where applicable. For example, in areas with access to solar power or other forms of green electricity generation, optimizing lighting systems can help maximize utilization rates and further enhance environmental benefits.
In addition to direct contributions towards reducing carbon footprints, EN 15193 also indirectly fosters a culture of responsibility among stakeholders involved in the design, installation, maintenance, and operation of building lighting systems. This promotes long-term thinking about resource management practices that are essential for achieving global sustainability targets.
