To improve energy efficiency, the North Olympic Library System (NOLS) has upgraded interior and exterior lighting at the Port Angeles Main Library. The project began on Monday, January 30, and the installation phase of the project was completed on March 2. The monitoring phase is for one year to verify energy savings guaranteed by the contractor.
REPLACEMENT PROCESS
All indoor overhead fluorescent lamps, as well as the exterior lights under the soffit overhang, and the parking lot lights were replaced with LED lamps. The electricians performing the work accessed every light fixture in the building, removed the electronic ballast from inside each fixture, and replaced the bulb. The work was performed by Integrity Energy Services (IES) and their subcontractor Lumenal Lighting.
BENEFITS OF LED LIGHTING
The new LED lights are more energy efficient, longer lasting, do not require expensive replacement parts like ballasts, and are less toxic to dispose of than the existing fluorescent lights. Additionally, fluorescent lamps of the type currently used at the Port Angeles Main Library will likely be phased out of production in the next five to ten years. Proactively switching to LED lamps will ensure a smooth transition to the new standard type of lighting, cost the Library less to operate and will qualify for local utility rebates.
CITY AND STATE ENERGY GOALS
This project helps bring the facility in line with the goals set forth in the Climate Resiliency Plan published by the City of Port Angeles in 2022. Implementing this energy-saving solution in the 35,000 square-foot Port Angeles Main Library also helps NOLS work toward the Clean Buildings Performance Standard, a provision of the Washington State legislation known as the Clean Buildings Act, which passed in 2019 and expanded in 2022.
OTHER NOLS LOCATIONS
LED lamps similar to those at the Port Angeles Main Library will be installed in the Sequim Branch Library building during its upcoming expansion and renovation project. Lighting improvements at the Forks and Clallam Bay Branch Libraries will be made over the next several years.
Email Discover@nols.org or call 360-417-8500 with any questions.
