Separating switches allows you to only switch on the lights that are required.

Why?
This will give you more control over lighting and allow you to leave lights off on sunny days, maximising natural lighting and minimising electricity bills.

How?
Identify areas where natural daylight could prove sufficient, or areas where different occupancy patterns exist. For example, if an area of an office is only occupied for one day per week. Ask your electrician about what options are available to you.
To find a local electrician that has experience in this field:
- contact NECA (National Electrical & Communications Association) on 03 9645 5566 or at www.neca.asn.au/index.php/site/find_an_electrician
- or visit the EcoSmart Electricians website www.ecosmartelectricians.com.au

How did we calculate this?
This example is based on a bank of 10 x 36W T8 fluorescent tubes (connected load 47W each) which only need to be switched on for half the time. The saving in this case would be:
10 x 0.047kW x 2,000 hours x 50% = 470 kWh per year. This equates to 644 kgCO2e per year.
This assumes typical business operating hours of 2,000 hours per year.

Cost to implement
Assuming two hours work for an electrician for each multi-switch, installed costs are estimated at $200 each.

To find a local electrician that has experience in this field:
- contact NECA (National Electrical & Communications Association) on 03 9645 5566 or at www.neca.asn.au/index.php/site/find_an_electrician
- or visit the EcoSmart Electricians website www.ecosmartelectricians.com.au