As one of the UK’s leading energy providers, E.ON continually explores ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions across its operations. As part of its Energy Efficient Lighting Programme, the company developed a commercial lighting strategy focused on delivering measurable energy, carbon and cost savings.

The E.ON Technology Centre in Ratcliffe-on-Soar was selected as a pilot project during an office refurbishment, providing an opportunity to demonstrate how integrated daylighting and efficient artificial lighting could support a more sustainable workplace.

Project Details

Client: E.ON Energy Solutions Technology Centre, Nottinghamshire, UK
Product: Solatube SolaMaster® Series – 6 Solatube 330 DS (530mm diameter systems)
Solatube Distributor: Solalighting Limited
General Contractor: Solalighting Limited

The Challenge

The refurbishment required a solution capable of maintaining consistent office lighting levels while significantly reducing reliance on conventional artificial lighting. Standard office lighting levels of approximately 400 lux were required at desk height, meaning natural daylight alone would not always be sufficient.

The project therefore required a balanced approach, combining natural daylight harvesting with intelligent artificial lighting control to provide comfortable working conditions while reducing energy consumption and operational costs.

The Solution

To address these requirements, six Solatube 330 DS-C Daylighting Systems were installed as part of the wider office refurbishment programme.

The Solatube systems capture daylight at roof level and transport it efficiently into the office interior using highly reflective tubing technology. This was combined with a daylight dimming system that automatically adjusts LED lighting output to maintain consistent illumination levels throughout the day.

By responding to the amount of natural daylight available, the system minimises unnecessary artificial lighting while maintaining the required lighting conditions for employees.

Installation was completed in just two days, minimising disruption to the wider refurbishment programme.

The Results

The completed installation delivered measurable improvements in energy performance while creating a brighter working environment. Natural daylight now contributes significantly to office lighting requirements, helping to reduce dependence on artificial lighting.

Key outcomes included:

• Approximately 82% energy savings compared with the previous lighting system
• An estimated 92 tonnes of carbon savings over 29 years
• Average annual savings of approximately £1,388 in energy and maintenance costs
• Improved lighting quality with reduced reliance on artificial lighting

Employees also provided positive feedback on the refurbished environment, highlighting the increase in natural daylight and improved overall comfort.

Conclusion

The E.ON Technology Centre project demonstrates how daylighting and intelligent lighting controls can work together to reduce energy consumption in commercial office environments.

By integrating Solatube daylighting technology with efficient LED lighting and automated controls, the refurbishment provides a practical example of how natural daylight can support both environmental objectives and an improved workplace environment.