Lysregime

Lysregime is a conceptual framework for managing light—both natural and artificial—within built environments to optimize energy efficiency, human well-being, and ecological impact. The term blends lys, from Scandinavian languages meaning light, with regime, from Latin regimen, meaning a system of management. In practice, lysregime refers to structured approaches to schedule, design, and control lighting so that exposure to light supports daily rhythms while reducing wasteful illumination.

Applications span urban street lighting, office, and residential interiors, as well as horticulture, agriculture, and data centers where lighting influences plant growth, productivity, or safety.

Core principles include daylight integration, circadian-friendly timing, adaptive controls, energy accounting, and minimization of glare and light pollution. A lysregime also emphasizes modularity and resilience, so lighting can respond to occupancy, weather, and user needs.

Implementation typically involves daylight harvesting, sensor networks for occupancy and luminance, tunable white or spectrally tuned LEDs, and integration with building management systems. Practitioners refer to established standards and guidelines—such as the IES Lighting Handbook and EN 12464 for workplace lighting—to inform lysregime design and verification.

Critiques center on upfront costs, maintenance, and the complexity of coordinating human factors with automated controls. Privacy concerns may arise from sensor-based monitoring, and over-reliance on automation can reduce occupant agency. Proponents argue that careful planning and stakeholder engagement can realize long-term energy savings and better well-being.

As a developing concept, lysregime continues to appear in professional discourse and research on sustainable lighting and energy management.