Lighting the Future at Brock
As part of Brock University’s SPARK Initiative (Sustainability, Performance, Adaptation, Renewal and Knowledge), Facilities Management is continuing the campus-wide conversion of existing lighting systems to high-efficiency LED technology.
This initiative will replace aging lighting systems throughout campus that are becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and are gradually being phased out across North America. The LED conversion represents a significant investment in Brock University’s commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, and providing high-quality learning and working environments for our students, faculty, and staff.
The benefits of LED lighting are substantial.
A fluorescent lighting system converted to LED technology can reduce lighting-related electricity consumption by up to 70 percent. Traditional incandescent lamps consume significantly more electricity than modern LED lighting, with LED fixtures using approximately 75 to 90 percent less energy while lasting up to 25 times longer. These improvements reduce electricity consumption, lower maintenance costs, decrease replacement requirements, and support Brock University’s long-term carbon reduction goals.
In addition to the energy savings, LED lighting provides several environmental benefits. Unlike fluorescent lamps, LED fixtures do not contain mercury. Fluorescent lamps require specialized handling, recycling, and disposal procedures due to their mercury content. By transitioning to LED technology, Brock is reducing environmental impacts while creating a safer and more sustainable campus.
What Occupants May Notice
As lighting upgrades are completed, occupants may notice that their spaces appear brighter than before.
This is normal and is often the result of several factors.
Modern LED fixtures distribute light more uniformly throughout a space, illuminating areas that may have previously appeared dim or shadowed. In addition, many existing lighting systems have experienced lamp failures, ballast degradation, aging lenses, or reduced light output over time. In some cases, spaces may have operated for extended periods with multiple lamps no longer functioning.
The SPARK lighting initiative restores lighting systems to their intended design performance and ensures lighting levels are aligned with Brock University’s established lighting standards. The result is improved consistency, enhanced visual comfort, better light distribution, and reduced eye strain for building occupants.
While the upgraded lighting may initially appear different from what occupants have become accustomed to, experience has shown that most individuals adjust quickly and appreciate the improved lighting quality after a short period of time.
Adjustment Period Following Installation
Facilities Management recognizes that any change within a familiar workspace can be noticeable.
For this reason, Brock University is asking faculty and staff to allow approximately three to four weeks following the installation of new LED lighting before submitting concerns related to brightness levels or general lighting conditions.
This adjustment period allows occupants time to become familiar with the new lighting environment and provides Facilities Management the opportunity to complete project commissioning activities and post-installation reviews.
In many cases, concerns initially associated with brightness or lighting appearance diminish as occupants adapt to the upgraded environment.
Personal Lighting Considerations
As Brock continues its transition toward high-efficiency lighting systems, faculty and staff are encouraged to consider energy-efficient LED options when using personal desk lamps or floor lamps within their workspaces.
Traditional incandescent bulbs consume significantly more electricity and generate substantially more heat than modern LED alternatives. Choosing LED lamps for supplemental lighting supports the University’s sustainability objectives while reducing unnecessary energy consumption and heat gain within occupied spaces.
Reporting Lighting Concerns
If, after the three-to-four-week adjustment period, concerns remain regarding lighting levels within your workspace, Facilities Management would be pleased to review the area.
Occupants are asked to submit a Work Request through the Facilities Management service request process, providing:
- Building and room number
• Description of the concern
• Specific area affected
• Any additional information that may assist with the assessment
As part of project close-out activities, Facilities Management will conduct illumination level measurements where required to verify that installed lighting systems meet Brock University’s lighting standards and design requirements.
Supporting Brock’s Sustainable Future
The campus-wide LED conversion project is another important step in Brock University’s commitment to sustainability, operational efficiency, and responsible stewardship of campus resources.
The initiative delivers immediate improvements in lighting quality while reducing energy consumption, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, eliminating mercury-containing lighting technologies, and creating more comfortable learning and working environments across campus.
We appreciate the patience, understanding and support of the Brock community as we continue to modernize our infrastructure through the SPARK Initiative.
Together, we are creating a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient campus for current and future generations of Badgers.
Facilities Management