The incredible story of Dartmoor Zoo is the subject of the
best-selling book and film ‘We Bought A Zoo’. In 2006, the Mee brothers took a
leap of faith without any experience to fall
back on, purchased a run down zoo. Thanks to the brothers' tireless efforts, the estate has now been bought back
to its former glory and a number of facilities have been improved. After the renovation, a remaining
area of concern was the restaurant which was illuminated by outdated 2 x 26w
compact fluorescent down lights.
Alex Smale, the zoo’s Business Development Manager said: “We
reached a stage where only 40% of the fittings were working and those that were
on were not giving out much light. The fittings were also very unattractive and
certainly didn’t create the right impression.”
Philips’ solution to this problem was to replace the
existing fittings with 32w Luxspace LED recessed down lighters. The benefits of
using these lamps include; improved lighting performance, minimal installation
costs and energy savings.
Divided into zones, the Luxspace fittings are controlled
through Philips OccuSwitch DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) which
delivers an enhanced level of control. Through this system, lighting is linked
to photocells so that it can be automatically dimmed in relation to natural
daylight. The system is also linked to the occupancy detectors; ensuring
lighting in unoccupied areas of the restaurant is dimmed to around 20% of the
full light output.
Staff and visitors approve of the new lighting, Alex Smale
enthused: “It has made a fantastic difference to the restaurant and we’ll be
saving a massive amount on energy costs. There will also be big savings on
maintenance, thanks to the long life of the LED lamps”.
Philips is also supplying new lighting in the zoo’s’ cat
houses with the aim of creating a better environment for the keepers. This
lighting upgrade is part of the zoo’s plan to reduce its environmental impact,
the zoo works closely with Bicton College in Salterton to promote environmental
awareness. Together, these two organisations are working towards creating an
education centre within the zoo.
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