This paper describes a novel and cost-effective way of providing direct sunlight to the core areas of a multi-storey building, In this system, sunlight is collected by a structure, called the solar canopy illumination system, which attaches to the building directly above the windows on each floor. The sunlight is then redirected by the optical components within the canopy and distributed within the building through a series of special-purpose light guides. These guides pipe the sunlight into the building, and also efficiently incorporate electric light sources so that they can provide supplemental lighting as necessary. This system combines several important energy-saving features and uses components that can be low cost in volume manufacturing. As a result, the system has the potential to be truly cost-effective based on the energy savings. The widespread adoption of such a system could substantially reduce energy consumption worldwide which would make a significant contribution toward greenhouse gas mitigation. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.