The prototype integrated task lighting system, designed for Postal Service use by a group led by EETD's Michael Siminovitch, will reduce lighting energy costs by at least 30 percent while providing a more pleasant work environment. An occupancy sensor turns off the task lighting directly above the sorting station when the letter carrier leaves. With the completion of the prototype system, the USPS is planning installation and testing of the system in a larger mail distribution facility. Eventually, the Postal Service expects to install the new lighting technology in sorting facilities throughout the United States. The design team is currently gathering information on the energy savings and employee reaction to the new system.
Early results indicate a very favorable response from the carriers.
We look forward to continuing working with the Postal Service. The work the Postal Service is doing here will take a big bite out of federal energy use and greenhouse gas production. In addition to Siminovitch, members of the Berkeley Lab team that developed the lighting system include Jeff Mitchell, Erik Page, Kevin Gauna, and Doug Avery.