LIGHTING
16
Beyond lux levels: the real drivers of lighting efficiency in retail
R etail lighting is often specified to meet a lux target at the lowest possible upfront cost. But on site, the real cost of a lighting system is reflected in how long installation takes, how reliably it performs, and how often contractors need to return to address issues. As energy costs rise and retailers place greater emphasis on store efficiency, lighting design is attracting closer scrutiny from engineers, contractors and procurement teams alike. “Too often, lighting is over-specified using rule-of-thumb spacing and nominal datasheet figures,” says Riaan Nel, Senior Key Account Manager at Rubicon. “This usually means more fittings than necessary, higher energy consumption, and higher costs for both the contractor and the retail client.” A more efficient outcome comes from viewing the lighting installation as a complete system rather than a collection of individual fittings. Why datasheet figures can be misleading Nominal performance data is measured under ideal test conditions. In real installations, heat, dust, voltage fluctuations and driver losses all reduce actual output. “Nominal figures show what the LED can do under ideal conditions,” explains Sello Leeuw, Head of Sales at Rubicon. “Effective figures reflect what the fitting will deliver once real- world losses are accounted for. Those figures give engineers and contractors a more realistic basis for planning.” O ften described as the ultimate “farm in the city”, Irene Farm offers the perfect family-friendly escape in Centurion. Nestled between the bustling cities of Pretoria and Johannesburg, this picturesque working dairy farm combines old-world charm with a welcoming countryside atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including on-site restaurants, a well-stocked farm shop, scenic walking trails, and the opportunity to see the farm’s herd up close. The venue also offers conference facilities and serves as a beautiful setting for weddings and special events. BEKA Schréder supplied the exterior lighting solution for this well-loved destination. All luminaires installed on site are designed and manufactured in South Africa, ensuring reliable technical performance while also supporting local industry and job creation. VERTICE - Versatile post top luminaire range The VERTICE luminaires have been installed at the entrance to Irene Farm and along the walkways, providing a warm, reliable glow throughout these key areas. Designed with ease of installation in mind,
This distinction is important. If a fitting delivers less light than expected, additional fittings may be required to meet compliance requirements, increasing the project’s time and cost. The metrics that have the biggest impact on lifecycle cost According to Rubicon, three factors have the greatest influence on the total cost of owning and operating a lighting installation over its life: • Number of fittings installed • Wattage per square metre • Lifespan and maintenance requirements “Fixture price is only one part of the equation,” says Nel. “The bigger savings often come from reducing fitting quantities, lowering energy consumption and minimising maintenance over the life of the installation.” By achieving the required light levels with fewer fittings spaced further apart, contractors can reduce cabling, installation time and labour costs upfront, while also lowering the retail store’s ongoing energy consumption. Engineering the system to do more with less Rubicon developed its Protega Gen 2 linear LED luminaire around this principle. By improving the optical design and reducing system losses, Protega Gen 2 increases spacing from 2.4 m to 3.0 m while maintaining the required retail lux levels. In a recent large retail project, it
From left: Nick Roche - Chief Product Officer; Jeffrey Martin - Factory Manager; Riaan Nel - Key Account Manager; Sello Leeuw - Head of Sales.
also reduced lighting power density from 12 W/m² to 7.5 W/m², resulting in very significant lifetime energy savings. Protega Gen 2 is modular and plug-and- play, with built-in safety features designed to reduce installation complexity and minimise the risk of incorrect assembly. It is engineered to be straightforward to install and maintain, without requiring highly specialised on-site labour. “In practical terms, contractors install fewer fittings, spend less time on site and have fewer potential failure points,” says Leeuw. “That translates into fewer call- backs and a simpler installation process.” Rubicon has seen projects where reducing fitting quantities by 20% to 30%, combined with lower wattage per square metre, significantly reduce both capital and operating costs without compromising lighting quality.
says Nel. “Lighting systems need to adapt without requiring a full replacement.” Because the Protega Gen 2 luminaire is modular, internal components can be replaced without discarding the entire fitting, helping retailers reduce future maintenance costs and enabling contractors to service installations more efficiently. For contractors, this means a lighting solution that is easier to install, reliable in operation, and designed to support long- term client satisfaction. When a lighting system is installed smoothly and performs as expected, it strengthens confidence across the supply chain and helps contractors build long- term relationships with their clients. As Leeuw puts it: “When real-world performance, fitting count and energy efficiency are considered from the start, the installation becomes simpler and the long- term results are better for all involved.”
Designed for easier upgrades “Retail environments change constantly,”
www.rubicon.tech
BEKA Schréder is proud to have supplied the exterior lighting solution for the recently refurbished Irene Farm in Pretoria, Gauteng
the VERTICE requires minimal maintenance and is backed by a full 5-year warranty. Its versatility sets it apart, offering a range of light distributions and three LED engine configurations, allowing the luminaire to complement the aesthetic and functional requirements of various applications. BEKABRITE – Classic bollard The BEKABRITE bollards illuminate the pathways leading to the newly built Waters Edge venue and Woodland Conference Rooms. With its refined design that blends easily into a wide range of environments, the BEKABRITE offers an effective lighting solution for pedestrian areas, parks, walkways, car parks and cycle paths. It enhances outdoor spaces while providing reliable nighttime guidance with minimal energy consumption. SERIES 300 - Decorative and highly efficient bulkhead The SERIES 300 bulkheads have been installed on the newly constructed Woodland Conference building, The Cottage building and new Dairy buildings. With its modern and minimalist design, this LED bulkhead blends seamlessly into its surroundings during the day while creating a striking visual effect after dark. Its distinctive halo lighting effect enhances building façades while providing functional illumination for commercial developments, retail areas, shopping centres and public buildings. LEDDUO - Decorative wall-mounted luminaire The LEDDUO/SQUARE has been installed
on the exterior of the newly constructed Woodland Conference Rooms and Waters Edge, adding a magical touch to the evening atmosphere. Combining energy efficiency with a sleek, robust design, the LEDDUO is suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Available in square and round models, it allows for seamless integration into architectural designs. ECOBAY – Lowbay and highbay range The ECOBAY RP MAXI with skirt has been installed inside The Shed venue. Designed for lowbay and highbay applications, the ECOBAY is ideal for large indoor spaces, delivering optimal light levels and energy efficiency. It is available with round or square PCBs, and an optional skirt is available to suit specific applications. Offering substantial energy savings, high performance, and the ability to operate in high ambient temperatures, the ECOBAY meets the requirements of multiple indoor lighting applications. Enhancing Experiences with Light BEKA Schréder is proud to have contributed to the lighting at Irene Farm, enhancing its functionality and ambience while highlighting its architectural features and outdoor spaces. With a full range of locally designed and manufactured luminaires, the project showcases the company’s commitment to quality, energy efficiency and support for South African industry. The result is a safe, inviting and visually appealing environment that complements the farm’s charm and ensures memorable experiences for all visitors.
JULY 2026 FEATURES
• Cables and Cable Accessories • Standby, Back Up, and Emergency PowerLighting • Lighting
AUGUST 2026 FEATURES
• MCCs and motor protection • Energy efficiency • Lighting
Editor: Minx Avrobos sparks@crown.co.za Advertising: Carin Hannay 072 142 5330 carinh@crown.co.za Design: Ano Shumba Publisher: Wilhelm du Plessis Published monthly by: Crown Publications (Pty) Ltd P O Box 140
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