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Photo: Henrik Schipper Photography. Lichtkanal 060 DI. The combination of direct and indirect light creates a glare-free and pleasant atmosphere – ideal for workstations.
Photo: Henrik Schipper Photography. Lichtkanal 060 DI. The combination of direct and indirect light creates a glare-free and pleasant atmosphere – ideal for workstations.

Press release -

RENOVATE. PRESERVE. ELEVATE.

LIGHT RENOVATION – Lichtkanal ready for the future

Bürogebäudes in der Bothwell Street 177, Glasgow Schottland, Lichtkanal
Photo: Cloud 9 Photography / Fagerhult Lighting Ltd. Main entrance of the office building at 177 Bothwell Street. More than two kilometres of Lichtkanal by LTS from Tettnang on Lake Constance illuminate the office building in Glasgow, Scotland.

Light that lasts – for over 20 years. Lichtkanal by LTS is more than just a luminaire – it is an architectural statement that structures spaces and creates atmosphere. Lichtkanals installed decades ago are far from outdated. On the contrary, with targeted refurbishment and modernisation, they seamlessly transition into a new era of lighting design – contemporary, efficient, and aesthetically refined.

  • “With our modular lighting technologies, even Lichtkanals that were installed decades ago can be effortlessly upgraded to meet today’s design and efficiency standards.”
    — Ewald Steinel, Head of Innovation & Development, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH


Challenges and opportunities of refurbishment

Outdated lighting systems often result in high energy costs, limited control options, and light quality that no longer meets modern expectations. However, renovation is much more than just an upgrade – it is an opportunity to rethink light and take spaces into a new era of illumination.
At the same time, many architects and planners aim to preserve existing architectural elements. With LTS, refurbishment becomes an opportunity rather than a challenge: Lichtkanals can be upgraded to cutting-edge LED technology while maintaining their original aesthetic impact. The modernisation process is quick, clean, and typically requires no structural modifications.

  • “Our lighting systems seamlessly combine efficiency and aesthetics. They enhance existing architecture – without compromise in design or energy performance.”
    — David Meßmer, Product Manager, LTS
Kunsthalle Weishaupt, Lichtkanal, Sanierung, vorher - nachher
Photo: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Light renovation at the Kunsthalle Weishaupt in Ulm. Before and after: special Lichtkanal inserts. Lichtkanal 045 and Lichtkanal 070 inserts were specifically developed for renovation purposes and integrated into the existing Lichtkanal profiles – a resource-saving and sustainable solution. By reusing the existing structures, a seamless light distribution can be ensured without any unnecessary structural changes.

Refurbishment options

  • LED retrofit in existing systems
    The Lichtkanal consists of three main components: the aluminium profile, the lighting insert, and the cover. In a refurbishment, the luminaire housing remains intact, while only the lighting inserts are replaced with modern LED technology, and the covers are renewed. Thanks to the standard through-wiring, the upgrade is fast, straightforward, and requires minimal structural effort.
  • “The modular concept of Lichtkanal allows for seamless modernisation with minimal installation effort. We designed the system to make optimal use of existing structures – efficient and future-proof.”
    — Ulrich Herrmann, Systems Engineer, LTS
Lichtkanal, Abdeckungen, Akrylgals, Profil, Lichteinsatz, Explosion
Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. For optimal light quality and efficiency, we recommend replacing not only the light inserts but also the acrylic cover. Yellowed or brittle covers can impair the lighting effect and diminish the visual impression in the room. Replacing the cover not only improves the aesthetics but also ensures that the new LED modules can reach their full potential – resulting in a noticeable increase in efficiency.


  • Your light channel isn’t from LTS?
    No problem! On request, we also offer project-specific, tested refurbishment solutions for linear lighting systems from other manufacturers.
    Our experienced team will assess your existing profile and develop a customised conversion solution – efficient and compliant with current standards.
  • Integration of intelligent control systems
    Upgrading with systems such as Organic Response or Casambi transforms Lichtkanal into an energy-efficient and smart lighting solution. Presence and daylight sensors ensure that light is only activated when needed, reducing operating costs by up to 80%.

Sensor Organic Response
Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Smart lighting control: With Organic Response, you can make targeted use of all the benefits that light has to offer – while reducing your lighting energy costs by up to 80%.

  • 360° LTS lighting service
    LTS provides a comprehensive lighting refurbishment service. Our experts guide every step of the process – from initial assessment to final implementation. Tailor-made solutions and meticulous planning guarantee a modernisation that integrates seamlessly into existing structures – without compromising on design or efficiency. With our extensive expertise, architects, lighting designers, and planners can be confident that their lighting systems are modernised in full compliance with all relevant standards and regulations. At LTS, we create future-ready, resource-efficient lighting solutions.

Beratung. Service der LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH
Photo: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Renovation made simple and stress-free! Throughout the entire refurbishment process, we support you in making the most of your lighting project’s full potential – always in line with standards and suitable for all possible applications and areas of use.

“Old lighting systems?
Modernised quickly and cost-effectively
with an LED upgrade!”

LIGHT RENOVATION
SIMPLE. EFFICIENT. PROFESSIONAL.

Renovating a Lichtkanal with LTS is a seamless upgrade: fast, clean, and disruption-free – a modernisation with minimal effort.

How Lichtkanal renovation works with LTS:

  1. Analysis & Planning
    Our experts assess existing Lichtkanals on-site or based on project plans. The best possible solution is developed according to the specific needs of the project.

  2. Customised refurbishment solution
    Depending on the condition and requirements, either an LED retrofit or a complete replacement is recommended. Factors such as design, energy efficiency, and smart control options are all considered.

  3. Rapid & clean implementation
    LTS lighting inserts are precisely engineered to fit existing Lichtkanals, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted light line. Thanks to the existing through-wiring, a retrofit can often be completed without major interventions. New LED technologies or control systems are installed within a short timeframe.

  4. Long-term support & sustainability
    LTS offers not only professional refurbishment but also long-term maintenance and optimisation options. Additionally, old LTS components are collected and professionally recycled to conserve resources.
LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Montage Bürgermoos, Tettnang.
Photo: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. LTS Lichtkanal systems can be easily and efficiently upgraded to the latest LED technology – even if they were installed 20 years ago.

THE RESULT:
Lichtkanal remains timeless, efficient, modern, and sustainable.

LTS Lichtkanals can be effortlessly upgraded to the latest LED technology, even if they were installed 20 years ago. We also refurbish all legacy Lichtkanal models that are no longer part of our portfolio. The modernisation process is entirely flexible – from a simple LED retrofit to a comprehensive system renewal.

Hochschule Koblenz, Lichtkanal, Sanierung Bibliothek
Foto: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Lichtsanierung in der Hochschule Koblenz. Die Bibliothek der Hochschule Koblenz hat bei der Sanierung Ihrer aktuellen Bestandskanäle auf unsere modifizierten Lichteinsätze des Lichtkanals 070 gesetzt. Die Montage dauerte lediglich fünf Werktage. Mit dieser Lösung war es möglich, den Bestandskanal in der Decke zu belassen, ohne diese zu beschädigen.

For optimal lighting quality and efficiency, we recommend not only replacing the lighting inserts but also upgrading the acrylic glass cover. Aged or brittle covers can distort the light distribution and significantly impair the overall lighting effect in a room. Replacing the cover not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures that the new LED modules reach their full potential – delivering a noticeable increase in efficiency. The new covers are precisely matched to modern lighting inserts, guaranteeing a seamless and homogeneous light output.

ZfP Südwürttemberg. Lichtkanal integriert, Treppenhaus, Flur
Foto: Conné van d`Grachten. Durch eine individuelle Konfiguration des Lichtkanals werden bauliche Gegebenheiten berücksichtigt und Anforderungen an die Lichtsituation, Ausstattung und Steuerung passgenau erfüllt.

Only the complete system – consisting of both the lighting insert and the cover – ensures maximum light quality and highest energy efficiency. At the same time, it guarantees full compliance with all current regulations and standards, maintaining CE certification. The upgraded lighting system – including the refurbished lighting inserts and new covers – comes with a full 5-year warranty for long-term reliability and performance.

LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Montage Bürgermoos, Tettnang
Photo: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Assembly at the LTS factory building in Bürgermoos, Tettnang on Lake Constance. All Lichtkanal models – including older versions no longer part of the current LTS portfolio – can be upgraded to the latest lighting technology. Simple, fast and future-proof.

OUR GOAL:

A modern, energy-efficient lighting system that is aesthetically striking, reduces operating costs, and integrates seamlessly into existing structures – without complex modifications or operational interruptions! A Lichtkanal that continues to evolve – innovative, adaptable, and future-proof.

Lichtkanal. Schulzentrum Vihtavuori, Laukaa, Finnland.
Foto: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio Oy, Finland. Aula des Schulzentrums Vihtavuori, Laukaa, Finnland. Individualität ist der Wert, der in der Lichtkanal-Familie seinen höchsten Ausdruck findet. Mit ihrer stilvoll reduzierten Designsprache bringt die Lichtlinie die Formen der Architektur zur Wirkung. Je nach gewählter Anordnung fügt sie sich dezent in den Baukörper ein und setzt diesen bewusst in Szene.

Old Lichtkanals, new light:
Renovate instead of replacing.


Key benefits of refurbishing existing Lichtkanals:

Resource conservation – Existing components such as the luminaire housing remain intact, reducing waste.

Effortless installation – Clean retrofitting during ongoing operations – dust-free, efficient, and disruption-free.

Maximum energy efficiency – State-of-the-art LED technology reduces energy consumption by up to 80%. With Organic Response, savings can be further increased by an additional 80%.

Architectural flexibility – Adapts seamlessly to evolving architectural requirements while preserving the original aesthetic.

Superior light quality – Enhances the atmosphere and elevates the quality of illumination.

Reliable warranty – A full 5-year warranty on all refurbished luminaires, just like on new ones – ensuring a long-term, secure, and energy-efficient lighting solution.

INTELLIGENT! “PIMP UP LIGHT”
Lichtkanal & Organic Response

Organic Response makes lighting intelligent. Real-time sensors ensure that light is only activated when truly needed – reducing energy consumption by up to 80%. At the same time, smart control enhances user comfort and extends the lifespan of LEDs. A retrofit that delivers long-term benefits.

Organic Response Montage
Foto: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Der 6x2 cm große Sensor kann direkt in den LTS Leuchten verbaut oder extern angebracht werden. Organic Response ist also auch für die Nachrüstung geeignet. Mit Organic Response können Sie alle Vorteile, die Licht bietet, gezielt einsetzen und optimal nutzen. Gleichzeitig können Sie die Energiekosten für Ihre Beleuchtung um bis zu 80 % senken.

Why Organic Response?

  • Up to 80% energy saving
  • Seamless integration into existing systems
  • Smart real-time lighting control
  • Extended LED lifespan
  • Adaptable for a wide range of applications
  • Future-ready and open for third-party integration

Advantages of Organic Response:

Organic Response im Lichtkanal
Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Floor plan overview with a so-called heat map. It visualises which areas are more frequented (red) than others (yellow to blue). High frequency – more light, low frequency – less light. The result is impressive: From day one, the Organic Response lighting control system enables energy savings of up to 80%.

Energy savings: Organic Response reduces energy consumption by up to 80 percent by ensuring that light is only used when actually needed and at the optimal intensity – ideal for projects with high efficiency requirements.

Easy retrofitting: The integration and commissioning of Organic Response sensors into existing lighting solutions is straightforward and does not require complex programming. The key factor is ensuring sufficient space for sensors and lighting inserts within the existing light profile. Our LTS specialists are happy to support planning and assess project-specific factors such as mounting height, sensor distances, and the desired lighting control. This allows for efficient and seamless retrofitting – ideal for modernisation projects during ongoing operations.

Smart lighting control: Real-time sensors and an intuitive app enable dynamic light adjustments and adaptive smart lighting that responds to movement and ambient brightness. This not only enhances lighting quality but also increases comfort.

Extended lifespan: The latest generation of LEDs lasts longer, saves more energy, and sets new benchmarks in lighting technology. Compared to conventional technology, energy savings of up to 80 percent can be achieved, and the lifespan of LEDs is generally several times longer.
When combined with the Organic Response lighting control system, the lifespan of LED modules is extended even further, as they only operate when truly needed. Organic Response can reduce energy consumption by another 80 percent, increasing both efficiency and durability while significantly lowering maintenance costs – an ecological and economic advantage.

Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Bar chart showing the energy savings achieved through the use of state-of-the-art LED technology and the Organic Response lighting control system.
Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Bar chart showing the energy savings achieved through the use of state-of-the-art LED technology and the Organic Response lighting control system.

Flexibility: Organic Response seamlessly adapts to various applications, from open office spaces to dynamic retail concepts, while also supporting future space reconfigurations. And if requirements change? The luminaires can be individually reassigned to new zones and usage scenarios within the system via the app – quickly and effortlessly.

Future-ready and open for integration: Organic Response is an open and intelligent system that can be linked and integrated with other apps or additional smart services. This means that lighting infrastructure and its data can be utilised for building indoor navigation, customised lighting concepts, crowd management at events, or even ensuring efficient evacuation in emergencies.

CONCLUSION:

Architects, planners, and project developers benefit from a synergy of aesthetic design and intelligent efficiency, significantly reducing both the ecological footprint and operating costs.

SUSTAINABILITY begins at the end –
the LTS RECYCLING CONCEPT:

When a Lichtkanal reaches the end of its lifecycle, LTS offers a comprehensive return and recycling service – designed for sustainability and efficiency.

  • “Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at installation. With our recycling service, we ensure that even the end of a product’s lifecycle is handled responsibly and with minimal environmental impact.”
    — Ewald Steinel, Head of Innovation & Development, LTS

Rücknahme- und Recycling 8, Service, Grafik
Graphic: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Renovate lighting – recover resources. LTS replaces your old lighting – whether LTS luminaires or Lichtkanal systems – with a new, energy-efficient LED version and offers an additional service for the proper return and disposal of components. The recycling process is carried out via the certified Lightcycle take-back system.

Dispose responsibly, think sustainably

  1. Resource conservation: Reusable parts, such as the luminaire housing, are inspected and either reused in a refurbishment or disposed of professionally.

  2. Proper recycling: All luminaire components are carefully sorted and transferred to specialised recycling and disposal facilities.

  3. Customer-friendly service: LTS supports architects, planners, and project developers with tailored return concepts and a seamless recycling process.

  4. Sustainable values: Responsible use of raw materials strengthens both the environmental profile of the project and the company.

This service seamlessly aligns with the LTS commitment to creating sustainable lighting solutions that are future-proof and resource-efficient. Customers can trust that even at the end of a product’s lifecycle, LTS ensures an environmentally responsible and sustainable approach.

Service LTS, David, Veronika
Foto: LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Egal ob Sie nur einzelne Lichtpunkte oder eine gesamte Beleuchtungsanlage sanieren wollen. Unser umfangreicher LTS-Service beinhaltet eine individuelle Beratung, eine professionelle Einschätzung Ihres Einsparpotentials sowie eine genaue Amortisationsberechnung und Beratung zu staatlichen Förderprogrammen. Wir helfen Ihnen, die richtige Wahl für Ihr LED-Upgrade zu treffen.

MANUFACTURING: WHERE VISION BECOMES REALITY

LTS Unternehmen, Fertigung, Bürgermoos
Photo: PHOTOGRAPHY Peter Weihs. LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Headquarters in Tettnang on Lake Constance. All threads come together in LTS production and manufacturing.

At LTS, all elements come together: Here, bespoke components for existing Lichtkanals are manufactured with precision and adapted to fit seamlessly into existing profiles. A refurbishment does not mean replacing the entire system – the luminaire body remains, while the lighting inserts and covers are upgraded with state-of-the-art LED technology.

Precision manufacturing for seamless refurbishment

To ensure the new components integrate perfectly into the existing structure, they are precisely tailored to fit Lichtkanal profiles – whether recessed, surface-mounted, or suspended, in custom lengths or with specific angles ranging from 30 to 90 degrees. Colour and light temperature options can also be individually configured to achieve a harmonious architectural integration.

  • "Light is the foundation of every architectural concept – and with the right solutions, any project can be perfected. Our Lichtkanal impresses with its superior quality, precise manufacturing, and flexible design. We ensure that every refurbishment solution is a perfect fit – whether through custom lighting inserts, individual colour options, or various mounting possibilities. This guarantees a sustainable and energy-efficient lighting system."
    — Serhat Ay, Product Preparation, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH

LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Montage, Bürgermoos, Qualitätskontrolle
hoto: PHOTOGRAPHY Peter Weihs. LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH. Quality control in the production facility in Tettnang. Every single product undergoes thorough testing after assembly – ensuring premium lighting quality and long-lasting luminaires.

The Lichtkanal product family:
Precision solutions for every requirement

LTS Lichtkanals stand for flexibility and technical perfection. Architects and planners can choose from a wide range of options:

Lichtkanal, Aula Kuvatoimisto Kuvio Oy, Finland.
Photo: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio Oy, Finland. Entrance area of the Finnish school centre Vihtavuori in Laukaa. In the LTS Lichtkanal, all components – from the housing and control unit to the lighting technology – are expertly matched and perfectly coordinated. At the highest level and in line with the latest technological standards.

  • “Our Lichtkanals stand for technological precision and creative diversity. Thanks to millimetre-precise manufacturing and individual custom solutions, we offer architects and planners virtually unlimited possibilities for their projects. Every detail is tailored precisely to the project's needs – whether through specialised angles, custom lengths, or tailored lighting technology. Thanks to continuous development and optimisation, our product is always state-of-the-art and sets new industry benchmarks."
    — Alexander Maier, Product Manager LTS Individual, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH

nanoOptix in Lichtkanal 060: Precision & Versatility

The patented nanoOptix film for Lichtkanal 060 sets new standards in lighting technology, enabling unprecedented precision in light control. With a thickness of just 0.6 mm, the film ensures a linear, homogeneous light pattern – even over a maximum length of up to 150 metres. With seven different beam characteristics, nanoOptix opens up a broad range of applications, from glare-free workplace lighting to accentuated product presentation or elegant architectural illumination.

The development of this innovative technology bears the signature of Erich Köpplin, one of the leading minds in LTS Research & Development. As the key developer of nanoOptix, he has created a lighting solution that combines maximum precision with outstanding efficiency.

  • "Lichtkanal is redefining precision lighting – thanks to the endless nanoOptix film as an optical element. This highly transparent optic minimises light loss while maximising output. At the same time, the microstructure of the film enables precise light control – without unwanted colour shifts or glare."
    — Erich Köpplin, LTS Research & Development, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH

  • "With nanoOptix, we are redefining lighting solutions in terms of both precision and aesthetics. Maximum light quality without compromise!"
    — Erich Köpplin, LTS Research & Development, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH

LICHTKANAL: THE TOOL OF THE FUTURE

LTS Lichtkanals unite design and functionality, driven by the vision of transforming spaces through light. They are more than just lighting systems – they are creative tools that bring architecture to life. Whether modernised or newly installed, Lichtkanals by LTS create lighting solutions that inspire for decades. So why build new when modernising is this easy? With LTS, even old Lichtkanals become sustainable, efficient, and future-proof lighting solutions.

Let’s rethink light together!

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With 220+ employees, the luminaire manufacturer LTS, based in Tettnang on Lake Constance, is an internationally valued partner of well-known customers, architects and planners. LTS offers products for superior architectural and retail lighting as well as lighting technology for hospitality and office. Since 2010, LTS Licht & Leuchten GmbH has been a member of the Swedish Fagerhult Group, making it the third largest luminaire manufacturer in Europe.

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