Professional Documents
Culture Documents
October 06,2015
Paul Ehrlich, P.E.
There have been tremendous improvements in the efficiency of lighting over the last 20
years. The movement from older technologies such as incandescent, halogen, CFL, and
fluorescent with magnetic ballasts has given way to the use of LED and high-
performance T8 fluorescent options. As a result, new office building projects are being
designed with lighting power densities that are around .5 watts/ft, a dramatic drop from
what was possible even a few years ago. Still, lighting, in most buildings, remains the
second highest energy user, and lighting controls remain one of the best options to
improve efficiency.
Of course, there are also additional benefits to lighting controls including improved
occupant support (i.e. comfort) by helping to provide the desired lighting levels. As states
move to adopt the latest energy codes, the use of lighting control will become a
requirement and no longer just a “nice to have.”
Ideally, we like to see a lighting control system that is integrated with the BAS. Having
an integrated solution has many benefits, including the ability to set up and modify
schedules for zones or areas of the building that include both lights and HVAC.
Designing an integrated system is not without its challenges, though. Usually, lighting
control is included with electrical design (division 26), however, BAS is often part of
mechanical (Division 25). There are several ways to proceed with this integration,
including moving BAS into Division 25 (Integrated Automation Facility Controls), then
developing the needed coordination with all other sections and designers. Alternatively,
BAS can stay in Division 23 and the designers and trades can then be coordinate as
needed. Key items to watch for are protocols support, lists of data to be shared, and
contractor responsibilities (i.e. who programs or does the integration).
When selecting a lighting control product, be sure to look closely at not just the
functionality of the system, but at how well it can be supported and modified as needed.
Keep in mind that it is fairly typical for space usage to change, and ideally the lighting
control system can readily be modified to keep up with these changes.