Networked Lighting Controls V3.0 Requirements
A networked lighting control system consists of an intelligent network of individually addressable luminaires and control devices, allowing for application of multiple control strategies, programmability, building- or enterprise-level control, zoning and rezoning using software, and measuring and monitoring.
Networked lighting controls can save 35% or more of lighting energy use in commercial buildings while providing a host of additional capabilities and benefits, yet the adoption of the technology remains limited. It is estimated that less than 10% of new construction projects and 1% of lighting retrofit projects use the technology. Barriers such as technology complexity, high cost, and lack of standardization and interoperability have prevented the technology from achieving its full potential. Education, common standards, system selection guidance, and innovation of simpler, easier to use systems are needed to address these barriers and achieve widespread adoption.
The DLC requirements and associated QPL provide an essential new resource to efficiency program administrators, designers, specifiers, distributors, contractors, and end users to identify, compare, and select rebate-eligible, high-performing control systems for use on projects.
To keep pace with quickly evolving technology and standards, the DLC revises its requirements for Networked Lighting Controls annually in June.

Desired Outcomes and Benefits

The specification enables high performance networked lighting control systems to be qualified and listed on the DLC NLC QPL.

The specification includes clear definition(s), requirements, and performance criteria to ensure listed systems produce significant, reliable energy savings that DLC Member utilities can count on.

Each specification revision further addresses technology adoption barriers, incorporates the latest technology developments and standards, and raises the bar for performance of listed systems.

Energy efficiency program administrators and others use the DLC’s Networked Lighting Controls Specification and associated QPL to identify and support the installation of high-performance, energy-saving networked control systems in their lighting rebate or procurement programs or projects.

The specification and listing of networked lighting control systems in combination with utility rebates leads to higher market adoption and increased customer satisfaction.

Installers and specifiers have the data and tools they need to be able to select and install networked lighting control systems appropriately.
Drafts and Documents
Second Draft Documents
- SECOND DRAFT Networked Lighting Control Technical Requirements V3.0
- SECOND DRAFT Networked Lighting Control Technical Requirements V3.0 Comment Form
First Draft Documents
- DRAFT Networked Lighting Control Technical Requirements V3.0
- DRAFT Networked Lighting Control Technical Requirements V3.0 Comment Form
- Key Technical Questions