Curious how this works, I asked Jim Leidel, energy manager at Oakland University, about induction lighting. “To make this real easy to grasp, let’s just say ‘induction lamps’ are a form of ‘light engine’ that is powered by an electromagnetic field rather than through lamp electrodes or direct electrical connections as in traditional lamps. When mounted on a parking lot light pole, you can’t tell the difference …except in the quality of light”. OK that satisfied my curiosity.
Looking ahead, Jim continues, “both these light engines have huge market potential and are designed, engineered and manufactured from he ground up here in Michigan”. Mr. Leidel has set up real life field testing of advanced lighting solutions on the Oakland University campus. Lighting solutions from eight manufactures will be tested for scale and economy over the next three years. Jim adds, “…the LED technology is advancing so rapidly that we can expect to see LED’s eclipse other ‘light engines’ with many improvements in the near future”. As the applications and demand for LED lights increase, the cost of manufacturing is expected to decrease and further accelerate the adoption of these products. Other advantages to solid state lighting is that they don’t contain hazards materials (lead, mercury) and are easier to recycle. The bottom line here is more light out-put with less energy in-put.