Pioneering Smart Lighting Piyush Pawa
In an exclusive interview with H&B MEDIA NETWORKS, PIYUSH PAWA, Assistant General
Manager (Smart Lighting) at Hafele, shares insights into the evolving world of lighting
design. From integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to addressing
market challenges and skill gaps, Pawa discusses how Hafele is redefining illumination to
cater to modern lifestyles and future demands.
How is lighting design adapting to modern lifestyles?
Lighting has evolved beyond mere illumination to influence well-being and functionality profoundly. Today, factors like glare and colour rendering are crucial. Excessive glare, especially in workspaces, can harm health. Modern lighting aims to diffuse glare, allowing users to enjoy light without directly seeing its source.
Colour rendering is another key focus. The benchmark is natural sunlight, with a Colour Rendering Index (CRI) of 100. Indoor lighting with a CRI above 90 ensures accurate colour Perception, which is vital for design and daily activities, plays a key role in lighting. Hafele lights meet or exceed these standards, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Integrating various lighting types—decorative, technical, indoor, and outdoor—into cohesive designs has become essential, making lighting a core element of architecture and interiors.
What sustainable practices Hafele is championing ?
Sustainability at Hafele begins with durability. Their lighting solutions offer a lifespan of over 70,000 burning hours and are backed by a 10-year guarantee, reducing wastage and ensuring longevity. Sustainable packaging is another key initiative. Plastic spools for strip lights have been replaced with paper alternatives, and packaging sizes have been optimised to cut transportation emissions.
Hafele is also exploring green aluminium, incorporating recycled materials into its supply chain. These efforts align with a broader commitment to minimising carbon footprints while maintaining high-quality, eco-friendly products
What challenges does the industry face in achieving energy efficiency?
Dependence on imports, especially for energy-efficient LEDs, poses a significant challenge. Sustainable solutions often have higher costs, deterring price-sensitive buyers. Hafele addresses this by aligning with advanced practices from its European and US counterparts and bringing sustainable products to the Indian market.
Additionally, Hafele views sustainability as a holistic lifecycle process, from energy-efficient production to recycling. While adoption in India is gradual, the company believes consumer education and consistent innovation will drive change.
What technological advancements are transforming the lighting
industry?
Advances in LED efficiency are revolutionising lighting. Brightness is no longer tied to wattage, as modern LEDs deliver higher lumens per watt, reducing energy consumption. Hafele’s integration of smart controls, like Alexa compatibility and home automation systems, enhances user convenience and energy efficiency.
IoT is another transformative force, enabling seamless device connectivity. Hafele’s IoT-compatible products and exploration of protocols like MATTER promise enhanced interoperability and smarter lighting systems.
What skills gaps exist in India’s lighting market, and how does Hafele address them?
India has a skills gap in lighting design and installation. Unlike in the West, where professionals receive formal training, Indian electricians rely on practical experience. Hafele bridges this gap with its Meister Service, a programme that trains and certifies installers to effectively use its products. Encouragingly, lighting design certifications are now available in India, a step toward professionalising the industry and addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals.
How has post-COVID awareness influenced lighting demand?
Post-pandemic, consumers recognise lighting as integral to design and well-being. Terms like “architectural lighting” are gaining popularity, highlighting its role in enhancing spaces. On the supply chain front, brands have diversified suppliers to reduce dependence on China, ensuring resilience. Digital platforms and influencers have further educated consumers, making them more discerning and informed in their choices.
What innovations can we expect from Hafele in 2025?
Hafele will enter retail lighting with innovations tailored for high-end spaces. Products like adjustable shelf systems and specialised spotlights will enhance the visual appeal and ensure optimal product showcases.
