LED lights
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) contain solid semi-conductor materials that convert electrical impulses into light through a process of electroluminescence. LEDs may include fluorescent materials that alter the colour of the light.
LED lights are packaged arrays of light emitting diodes that create uniform and bright light. They have high electrical efficacy, good reliability, and long lifespan. This results in energy savings, lower maintenance costs, and good environmental performance.
An LED light fixture will typically use 90% less electricity than an equivalent incandescent fixture. They have a similar efficiency to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) but are longer lasting. A good quality LED light can have a useful life of 25,000 hours or more. This is more than 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs. LEDs also lack filaments or glass enclosures, making them more durable than traditional alternatives.
Wall washing, cove lighting, backlighting, in ground lighting, and speciality lighting are the prime applications for LED products. The global LED lighting market was valued at approximately USD 20.0 billion in 2014. The market is dominated by Europe, which accounted for more than 30% of total demand in 2014.
Solar LED products and conventional LED products are the two major segments of the global market. The conventional LED products segment dominates the market at present.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.