Eskom launches energy efficient lighting competition

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3 March 2010 News

Eskom has launched the Energy Efficient Lighting Design Competition for 2010, challenging novices and the seasoned alike to develop their own energy-efficient luminaire.

Eskom is inviting both students and professional designers to think outside the box and design (and build) imaginative lamp prototypes that not only work, but that are also aesthetically pleasing. As the name of the competition implies, it is of major importance that all designs make use of energy-efficient light sources. Professional designers are also invited to submit innovative energy-efficient designs, systems or products that are suitable for residential applications. These may include, for example, a complete lighting system that caters for a low-cost housing development. The use of alternative power sources is encouraged in attaining high energy efficiency.

Eskom says its drive to promote energy efficiency stems from the fact that the more energy we use, the more energy needs to be generated. As a result, more power stations need to be constructed, which will lead to an increase in electricity rates. In addition, South Africa’s coal reserves will not last forever. Our growing population rate and the subsequent increasing demands on our energy resources are bound to have a severe impact on the country’s natural resources.

Since compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) hit the market, it has become more and more apparent that existing lamp designs are not suitable for use in conjunction with new energy-efficient technologies. To address this dilemma, Eskom launched the EELDC to encourage new designs that will demonstrate the fact that efficient lighting technologies (for example discharge, fluorescent and LED technologies) can, in fact, be used in contemporary and attractive luminaires intended for residential lighting.

Total prize money for the competition amounts to R200 000, with R30 000 going to the winner in each of two categories – category A for residential luminaire design (for students) and category B for innovative energy efficient lighting design (for professionals). Second and third prizes in category A earn R20 000 and R10 000, respectively, with R1000 going to the 10 most promising previously disadvantaged designers. Category B also offers R5000 to each of the 20 top regional finalists.

The closing date for entries is 30 July 2010.

For more information visit www.lighting-design.co.za

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