Case Study: EcoGrid Technologies Reduces LHM’s Carbon Footprint with Innovative Technology

EIN ecogrid 400

Nov 25, 2020

Every day, Canadian companies struggle to reduce their carbon footprint without increasing their bottom line. That might sound like a lofty goal, but EcoGrid Technologies, an energy equipment and solutions company based out of Toronto, ON, has a proven track record of helping industrial operators launch energy efficiency projects that pay for themselves and increase cash flow at the same time.

Recently, EcoGrid Technologies worked with LHM Technologies Inc. of Woodbridge, ON to replace facility lighting in its 50,000 square foot state-of-the-art manufacturing space, where they produce high quality precision components for the aerospace, military, automotive, oil and gas and nuclear energy sectors. 

“We are proud to have helped LHM fit its production facility with our state-of-the-art wireless solution,” says George Filtsos, President of EcoGrid Technologies. “Using our exclusive cutting-edge Bluetooth controls to automate illumination levels base on usage has resulted in more than 600,000 kWh of annual consumption savings from lighting alone for LHM. This project will pay for itself in a few months, not years”

“These lights were antiquated,” said Filtsos, referring to the facilities previous fixtures, “they were 1000 W metal halide lamps, just insane energy hogs. We were able to get triple the amount of lumens with a 200w product, with very little repositioning,” he explained, adding that they were able to utilize the existing lighting infrastructure to install the new fixtures.

In addition to the increased efficiency, a project like this represents a capital expense incentivized by the government, as opposed to a retrofit, which would be considered maintenance.

“You can write off the depreciation for the entire capital expense in the very first year for an energy savings project ,” said Filtsos.

After the installation of EcoGrid’s custom engineered wireless solution, LHM is now experiencing three times more light on the production floor while enjoying more than 85% efficiency.

LDS EcoGrid casestudy 400Another key, particularly for industrial companies focused on cybersecurity, is that EcoGrid Tech’s solution doesn’t require network access. “We don’t need a wireless area controller or a gateway. That’s the same with most Bluetooth technologies out there. The biggest and most beautiful thing is that it’s very simple. Anyone with a phone and the access code can go in and make adjustments,” explained Filtsos.

The system EcoGrid Tech has developed uses microwave sensors that allows them to automate industrial spaces requiring higher egress protection and safety standards which standard PIR technologies were not able to access, such as environments requiring protection from inert gases, chemicals and dust.

“Working with EcoGrid to implement our facility’s new lighting and controls was truly a professional and streamlined experience. From the initial proposals, to the process of testing, installing and setting up the controls, even during our production hours, was a very effortless and safe process for our organization. We gladly look forward to working with EcoGrid on more possible solutions to help make our facility even more energy efficient” says LHM Management.

EcoGrid Technologies has a mandate to future proof everything they do by establishing a digital ceiling in the industrial, commercial built space via their lighting with open standard IoT solutions.

“The way we look at is… you’re going to rent the lift, you’re going to get the labour to go up; it takes five more minutes to disconnect the power and hook up new lights. While you’re up there, have a digital component that future proofs the investment, so five years from now, if Bluetooth technology comes out with something new and fresh and you want to take advantage, we can do it,” commented Filtsos.

EcoGrid Tech is a company that demonstrates a commitment to innovation and the overall progression of the industry. By utilizing open-source technology they have the ability to work with any manufacturer and any dimmable fixture. However, it’s worth noting that not all manufacturers are keen to embrace the disruptive innovation a company like EcoGrid Tech represents.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • LEDucation 2024 – Concluded with Record-Breaking Attendance

    The LEDucation Trade Show and Conference, organized by the Designers Lighting Forum New York, wrapped 2024 with record-breaking attendance, welcoming more than 10,000 registrants from all aspects of the lighting industry. LEDucation celebrated its 18th year in New York City March 19–20 at the New York Hilton Midtown, becoming North America’s largest annual lighting industry… Read More…

  • Part 1: How Many Studies Does it Take to Change a Lightbulb?

    March 18, 2024 How studies in vision inform lighting standards at Night By Noah Sabatier Changing a light bulb in our home is perhaps the most simple task in which we can still credit ourselves for performing household maintenance. The amount of thought such an operation receives rarely extends beyond looking for the most efficient… Read More…


Design

  • Case Study: Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) with Salex SW

    Case Study: Windsor Family Credit Union (WFCU) with Salex SW

    February 6, 2024 Since 1940, WFCU Credit Union is a prominent and forward-thinking financial institution based in Windsor and Essex County. For over 80 years, WFCU has been dedicated to serving Ontario residents, community, organizations, small businesses, commercial entities, and public institutions. Their new headquarters in Kitchener was created as they continue to grow their… Read More…

  • Coaticook Suspended Footbridge: An Ever-Changing Luminous Canvas, Painted by Nature

    Coaticook Suspended Footbridge: An Ever-Changing Luminous Canvas, Painted by Nature

    December 5, 2023 At 170 m (554 ft) long and 50 m (160 ft) high, the Coaticook Canyon Bridge at Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is one of the longest suspension footbridges in North America and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Eastern Townships. For several years, the Parc de la… Read More…


New Products

  • Liteline ORBIT 2″ Gimbal Recessed Fixture

    The ORBIT is a 5 watt 2″ gimbal recessed light fixture for retrofit applications, with 360° rotation and 80° tilt. It is a high-performance, easy to install downlight solution that offers good light output, energy-efficiency and streamlined design. Suitable for wet locations and ideal for vaulted ceiling and soffit installations. BodyDurable aluminum body with 360°… Read More…

  • Acclaim Lighting Introduces All-Weather Terra Drum with Multiple Color Options

    Acclaim Lighting introduces the Terra Drum series, rugged, all-weather inground, drive-over ready rated fixtures designed for recessed façade and tree lighting applications.  Available in 15-, 30- and 60-watt versions, Terra Drums have a drive-over rating of up to 6,000 lbs. (2,721kg). They are offered in 2400K, 2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, Dynamic White (2700K-6000K), Quad Spectrum… Read More…