Importance of CRI value
Information, Ledverlichting | Posted on May 2, 2023 by Firefly

In the world of lighting, the CRI value is an important factor. CRI stands for Color Rendering Index or Color Value Index. The CRI value indicates how well light renders a color. The CRI value is a benchmark that ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 being the best and most natural color rendering.
It is important to know which CRI value best suits your situation. If you choose the wrong CRI value, the color rendering will not be as good as you expect. The CRI value largely determines the visual attractiveness of a space or object and it is therefore important to choose this correctly.
What value can a CRI have?
The Color Rendering Index value ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 being the most natural color rendering. Sunlight has a CRI value of 100, which is the perfect value. Below is an overview of different types of light with their CRI value:
- CRI 90 to 99: true-to-life color rendering, for example shop windows.
- CRI 80 to 89: good color rendering, for example schools or offices.
- CRI 70 to 79: weak color rendering, for example outdoor lighting.
- CRI 60 to 69: poor color rendering, for example lampposts.
Good company lighting is therefore extremely important for the atmosphere on the work floor. Poor lighting can lead to a reduction in productivity. This is evident from a study by (Jolet, 2019).
The application of lighting
It is important to choose the right color rendering value in different situations. Whether the color rendering of the object is important determines which CRI value should be chosen. As described in the previous paragraph, it is important to know where you want to place the light. For example, if you want to illuminate a shop window, it is a requirement that you choose lighting with a CRI value between 90-99 and not 60-69. Not only this, but from experience we know that LED lighting is also much more sustainable than normal lamps. When the lamp warms up, 90% of the energy is lost. Even more reason to opt for LED lighting.
Why is the color rendering value important?
The CRI value is important for various situations where color rendering is important. For example, it can be important when cooking, painting or reading. Another crucial aspect of the CRI value is that it determines the visual appeal of a space. If you want to create atmosphere in a space, you should not go for window display lighting with a CRI value of 90-99.
How is the CRI value determined?
The CRI value is determined by measuring the difference in color rendering. Eight colors are measured with the lamp. The difference in color rendering is then calculated. The CRI value is determined on this basis.
Choosing the right CRI value with Firefly's service
Firefly offers various options for choosing the right CRI value. We ensure that you always choose the one that suits your situation and space, for example a CRI value of 90 to 99 for natural colour rendering, or a CRI value of 80 to 89 for good colour rendering. This way, a company hall or office can be lit in the right way, so that it remains a safe and pleasant workplace.
It is clear that the CRI value is an important factor in the world of lighting. By choosing the right colour rendering value, you can optimise the colour rendering of the lighting within your company. Firefly helps determine the right Colour Rendering Index value and offers the best support in this. For questions or the possibilities, please contact us!