Ljusutnyttjandet

Ljusutnyttjandet, literally “the utilization of light” in Swedish, denotes the practice of using daylight to illuminate buildings and outdoor spaces. In architectural design, urban planning and energy policy, it refers to strategies aimed at maximizing daylight use while maintaining comfort and energy efficiency. The concept encompasses daylighting design, daylight autonomy goals, and the integration of natural and artificial lighting systems.

Principles include optimizing window placement, daylighting accessories such as light shelves, clerestories and skylights, and using translucent or high-performance glazing. Shading devices, reflectors, and interior layouts help control glare and unwanted heat gain. Advanced approaches employ dynamic shading, intelligent lighting controls and daylight-responsive dimming to balance illumination with energy use.

Benefits of effective ljusutnyttjandet include reduced electricity consumption for lighting, lower peak demand, improved occupant comfort and productivity, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. It can also enhance visual quality and circadian health. Metrics used to evaluate daylighting performance include daylight factor, daylight autonomy, correlated color rendering, illuminance targets (lux), and glare indices.

Challenges involve climate and site variations, seasonal changes, initial construction costs, and the need for proper management of thermal loads and glare. In policy and practice, ljusutnyttjandet is promoted through building codes, energy performance standards, and rating schemes that reward daylighting and solar shading optimization.

See also: daylighting, energy efficiency, passive solar design, building performance.