Energy Savings Estimates of Light Emitting Diodes in Niche Lighting Applications

Louise A. Conroy and Michael J. Scholand, Navigant Consulting, Inc.
James R. Brodrick, U.S. Department of Energy

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Abstract

Solid-state lighting (SSL) has the potential to revolutionize the lighting market through the introduction of more energy efficient light sources. While SSL is just starting to compete for market share in general illumination applications, recent technical advances have made light emitting diodes (LEDs) cost-effective in many colored-light niche applications. LED technology is capturing these new applications because it offers a better quality, cost-effective lighting service compared to less efficient conventional light sources such as incandescent or neon. In addition to energy savings, LEDs offer longer operating life (>50,000 hours), lower operating costs, improved durability, compact size and faster on-time.

This paper summarizes the findings from analysis of nine niche markets where LEDs saved energy in 2002. The markets analyzed include: traffic signals, exit signs, commercial advertising signage, airport taxiway lights, airplane passenger reading lights, miniature holiday lights, railway signals, and vehicle indicator and safety lights on automobiles, trucks and buses. Estimates of energy savings in 2002 due to LED market penetration are presented, as well as the potential energy savings if 100% of these niche markets switched to LEDs. The findings for each application are presented in terms of both site and source (primary) energy savings. The current combined energy savings of LEDs in these niche applications is 9.6 Terawatt-hours (TWh) per year, or the equivalent annual output of a large (1,000 MW) electric power station.1 In addition to detailed energy savings and market penetration information, this paper discusses other benefits of LEDs in each of the niche applications.