Published

6 months ago

February 4, 2025

Alice Rush

Lighting can use up to 40% of the energy in commercial spaces. The amount of daylight a building receives affects how much electric lighting is needed, and this depends on factors such as its design, ceiling height, and layout.

There are many benefits of LED lighting for commercial spaces. Let’s dive into all of them in this blog.

Improving Existing Lighting

Lighting experts should be involved from the start when designing new buildings or upgrading old ones. A good energy-saving lighting plan works best with other building design elements.

Many simple changes can save energy without spending much money or redesigning the lighting system. These include:

Turning off lights when not needed (manually or automatically).

Removing extra lights in overly bright areas.

When renovating or upgrading, businesses have great chances to improve lighting efficiency. It can include:

Replacing old light fixtures and bulbs.

Adjusting lighting layouts for better use.

More switches and circuits will be added for better control.

What is an LED Light?

LED lights, or Light-Emitting Diodes, are energy-efficient lighting that are now widely used in homes, offices, streets, and even cars.

They have become very popular because they use much less electricity, last a long time, and are safer for the environment than older bulbs like incandescent or fluorescent lights.

LEDs work differently, unlike traditional bulbs, which create light by heating a wire filament (which wastes as much energy as heat).

An LED bulb is a tiny electronic chip made of unique materials called semiconductors located inside. When electricity passes through these materials, they produce light directly instead of heat, making LEDs much more efficient.

Features of LED Lighting

Traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs waste as much energy as heat, making them inefficient and even a fire hazard.

LED lights are a much better option because:

They use up to 75% less energy and release 90% less CO2 than halogens.

They last up to 25 times longer, reducing replacement and maintenance costs.

They produce less heat, which lowers air conditioning costs.

They are safer for the environment since they don’t contain toxic mercury like CFLs.

To get the best results, choose high-quality LED products from trusted brands.

Benefits of LED Lighting for Commercial Spaces in 2025| A Guide by Cyanergy

Recently, LED lights have become the preferred option for home and business lighting. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, and these lights have many advantages over traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

More and more businesses are switching to LED lighting because it reduces energy costs, provides better lighting quality, and supports environmental sustainability.

Switching to LED lighting is a smart investment for any commercial space. These lights improve the brightness and ambience of a workplace and contribute to long-term cost savings.

Their energy efficiency, durability, and design flexibility have transformed how businesses illuminate their spaces.

Energy Savings and Cost Efficiency

One of the biggest reasons businesses adopt LED lighting is its exceptional energy efficiency. Unlike traditional bulbs that waste a significant amount of energy as heat, LED lights convert most of their electricity directly into light.

This means they consume far less power while producing the same if not better, brightness level. As a result, businesses that switch to LED lighting can see a noticeable drop in their electricity bills.

Another significant benefit is their long lifespan. While conventional bulbs burn out relatively quickly, LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours or more.

This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, reducing maintenance costs and effort. This extended lifespan can lead to significant savings in commercial settings where lighting is used extensively.

LEDs are also designed to be highly durable. They can withstand vibrations, temperature changes, and impacts better than traditional bulbs.

It makes them ideal for commercial spaces, where reliable, long-lasting lighting is essential. Over time, businesses benefit from lower energy costs and reduced expenses on repairs and replacements.

Better Lighting Quality for a Productive Environment

Lighting is crucial in any workplace, affecting visibility, comfort, and productivity. LED technology provides brighter, more uniform lighting, ensuring that every corner of a space is well-lit.

Unlike traditional bulbs, which may create uneven lighting with shadows or dark spots, LEDs distribute light evenly across a room. This consistency enhances the overall ambience and makes workspaces more visually comfortable.

Good lighting can also reduce eye strain and fatigue, which is especially important in offices, retail stores, and other environments where employees and customers spend extended periods.

With LED lighting, businesses can create a well-lit atmosphere that promotes focus and efficiency.

Another advantage of LED lights is their ability to adjust brightness levels. Unlike older lighting systems, which offer only one brightness level, LEDs can be dimmed or brightened as needed.

This flexibility allows businesses to create different moods for different areas, such as brighter lighting for workspaces and softer lighting for customer lounges or reception areas.

The ability to customise lighting based on activities makes LED technology an excellent choice for dynamic work environments.

A Greener, More Sustainable Choice

Switching to LED lighting is better for businesses and the environment. Because LEDs use significantly less electricity than traditional bulbs, they help reduce overall energy consumption, lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Using LED lights contributes to a smaller carbon footprint, supporting efforts to combat climate change.

In addition to being energy-efficient, LEDs are free from harmful substances like mercury, which is commonly found in fluorescent bulbs. This makes them safer for both people and the environment.

LEDs last much longer than traditional bulbs and produce less waste, reducing the need for frequent disposal. LEDs can be safely disposed of at the end of their lifespan without causing environmental harm.

Another environmental benefit of LED lights is their lower heat output. Traditional bulbs generate a lot of heat, which can increase cooling costs in commercial buildings.

On the other hand, LEDs remain cool even after hours of use, reducing the strain on air conditioning systems. It further enhances their energy efficiency and makes them an eco-friendly lighting solution.

Enhanced Safety and Security

A well-lit space is essential for maintaining safety and security in any business. LED lighting provides bright, clear illumination that helps prevent accidents and improves overall visibility.

Good lighting reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls in workplaces with high foot traffic, such as offices, malls, and warehouses. LEDs contribute to a safer working environment by eliminating dark spots and ensuring even lighting.

Security is another crucial aspect, and LED lighting plays a key role. Well-lit spaces are less attractive to criminals, as visibility is a strong deterrent against theft and vandalism.

Parking lots, hallways, and entrances illuminated with LED lights enhance security and provide a safer atmosphere for employees and visitors.

With LED lighting, businesses can improve workplace safety and protection against potential security threats.

Versatile Design and Smart Controls

One of the standout features of LED lighting is its versatility. LEDs are available in various designs, colours, and sizes, allowing businesses to customise their lighting according to their needs.

LEDs can be tailored to create the desired ambience, Whether for an office, a restaurant, or a showroom.

LEDs can be easily integrated into different types of lighting fixtures, including ceiling lights, track lighting, and strip lights.

LED lights are adaptable and suit various commercial settings, from modern office spaces to stylish retail stores. Businesses can use them to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their premises while maintaining efficiency.

Another advantage is the compatibility of LED lights with smart lighting systems. Businesses can automate lighting settings, schedule on/off times, and adjust brightness levels using remote controls or motion sensors.

This level of automation helps further optimise energy usage and ensures that lights are only used when required, preventing unnecessary energy waste.

Meeting Industry Standards and Regulations

Businesses must adhere to energy regulations and sustainability standards, and LED lighting helps them achieve these goals. Many governments and regulatory bodies encourage companies to use energy-efficient lighting solutions.

By switching to LEDs, businesses can comply with these regulations while enjoying the financial benefits of lower energy consumption.

Unlike some older lighting options, LEDs do not contain hazardous materials like mercury or lead. This makes them safer to handle and dispose of, reducing health risks for workers and minimising environmental impact.

Businesses that adopt LED technology demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, which can also enhance their reputation among eco-conscious consumers and stakeholders.

Starting Your Journey with Cyanergy is a Smart Choice for Businesses

LED lighting is a game-changer for commercial spaces, offering numerous benefits in cost savings, efficiency, lighting quality, and sustainability. Contact Cyanergy to get a hassle-free LED lighting installation.

Businesses that make the switch can expect lower electricity bills, fewer maintenance issues, and improved working environments. Additionally, the environmental benefits of LEDs contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

With its durability, flexibility, and long-term financial advantages, LED lighting is not just a trend—it’s the future of smart and sustainable business lighting. Get a free quote today!

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Benefits of LED Lighting for Commercial Spaces in Australia appeared first on Cyanergy.

https://cyanergy.com.au/blog/benefits-of-led-lighting-for-commercial-spaces-in-australia/

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

17 hours ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

August 15, 2025

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action.

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

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ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

1 day ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff.

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes!

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems.

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia?

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective.

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

In this blog post:

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage.

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day.

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar.

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint.

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there!

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery:

Energy Independence

Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the Australian energy market.

Maximized Savings

Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability.

Better Return on Investment ROI

Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates?

Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%.

These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.

Peace of Mind

Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.

Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind.

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone.

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question.

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things:

Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day.

Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting.

Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid.

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here.

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system.

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage.

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process.

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage

Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining.

You don’t have to care about power outages anymore

In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source

Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak

During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun.

Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source.

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system:

Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.

Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk.

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage

One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents.

Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments.

Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime.

While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time.

Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most.

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030.

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia.

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

2 days ago

August 14, 2025

Alice Rush

I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.