The Project
IET London: Savoy Place has been a distinguished, outstanding and competitive conferencing and events venue in the heart of the capital for over 100 years, and is home to the Institution of Engineering and Technology. It underwent a significant refurbishment in 2015, however, after nearly nine years, the lighting control system which was originally installed began to show signs of aging. The system’s proprietary nature led to frequent breakage, with multiple points of failure due to its complexity. As a result, the decision was made to replace the outdated lighting control system with a more reliable, flexible, and cost-effective solution. In 2024, IET made a significant investment that will save £30k annually.
How does this Project demonstrate the diversity/flexibility of KNX?
The existing lighting control system was based on a closed protocol, meaning it could only be maintained and serviced by the original installers. This not only led to high costs but also caused operational challenges due to the frequent failures and complexities of the system.
The goal was to replace this with an open protocol lighting control system, allowing flexibility in maintenance, installation, and commissioning by any qualified light control company. This would also help reduce ongoing operational expenditure (OPEX) and ensure the building’s lighting system was future-proof.
How does KNX add value and ease of use for building owners/occupiers
Several lighting control systems were investigated to find the most suitable solution for Savoy Place. Each system had its own merits, but KNX stood out as the most flexible and future-proof solution. KNX is an open standard for building automation, offering non-proprietary technology that can be easily integrated into both domestic and commercial environments. Its key benefits include:
- Low ongoing maintenance costs
- Flexibility and future-proofing
- Extended lifespan (an additional 10 years)
- Reduced OPEX budget
- Open protocol maintenance, allowing easy servicing by any provider
- Reliability and sustainability
- Wide international community and software protocol
The KNX system, once fully integrated, provided a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solution for the IET building. The system was encased in a KNX control panel and connected via a Server forwarding to an app, allowing the lighting to be controlled via mobile devices (tablets and phones). This enhanced the user experience, offering both convenience and reliability in lighting control throughout the building.
How has this project resolved an identified need for the building user and/or developer ?
The installation faced several unexpected challenges, including rooms that contained up to seven Light Control Modules (LCMs). These were replaced with only two KNX panels, which significantly simplified the system and reduced points of failure.
A key aspect of the system was to ensure all components of the lighting control system were sourced from a single manufacturer for compatibility and ease of maintenance. After considerable research, Zennio Avance y Tecnologis S.L., a Spanish manufacturer with a UK subsidiary and representation, was selected as the supplier. Zennio’s portfolio of products included all the necessary components, such as:
- Touch panels
- Universal power supplies
- IP routers
- Motion sensors
- DALI Lighting Controls
- Universal dimmers
- Blind / Shutter actuators
The successful installation of the KNX lighting control system at Savoy Place has provided the IET with a state-of-the-art solution that is not only future-proof but also cost-efficient in terms of both installation and ongoing maintenance. The IET now enjoys a lighting system that is easier to manage, more flexible, and more reliable.
The improved lighting control system now offers significant benefits in terms of maintenance costs, system reliability, and long-term sustainability. This project serves as an example of how careful planning and the right technical solutions can overcome the challenges posed by outdated infrastructure and provide a future-ready solution for a world-class institution.
