Lighting Controls: From Code Compliance to Retrofits

When we talk about lighting controls, we often limit the conversation by focusing on how lights are turned on and off, or how to optimize lighting in various spaces to enhance productivity or conserve energy. While these are important things to consider, in reality, any conversation about lighting control systems should also include several other elements as well.

When electrical contractors engage with customers about lighting controls, they should ensure that any conversations also incorporate code requirements, “future-proofing,” and whether a retrofit may be beneficial.

Ensuring lighting controls meet code requirements

As energy codes become more stringent, contractors now need to collaborate with lighting designers, architects, and engineers to not only ensure the lighting design and performance fit the specific needs, but also to comply with industry codes. Clearly, this is no small task — in many cases, a trusted distribution part   ner can bring in the right expertise or handle much of the administrative burden on the contractor’s behalf.

Before starting the lighting design process and matching them to end-user preferences, electrical contractors need to make sure they understand the code requirements, including ASHRAE 90.1, IECC, NFPA 101, and any other local requirements.

• ASHRAE 90.1 is the energy standard that establishes minimum requirements for energy-efficiency designs for buildings. If a lighting design includes controls like daylight harvesting systems, occupancy sensors or programmable timeclocks, contractors need to ensure that ASHRAE requirements are met.
• The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is an alternate energy code model. As it relates to lighting, the 2024 IECC has a primary goal of minimizing unnecessary energy usage. At a high level, it recommends utilizing occupancy sensors, dimmers, time-switches, or other automatic shutoff controls to enhance overall energy efficiency. While IECC does allow the option to use either IECC or ASHRAE 90.1 for building projects, it’s important to note that all requirements from the chosen standard must be followed.
• NFPA 101 covers different elements of building safety regarding emergency lighting. In particular, it sets requirements for illumination levels, duration, testing, maintenance, and operation when normal power is lost.
• Local codes may also come into play. It’s important to have a trusted partner who is an expert in local lighting codes to ensure that any lighting designs are fully compliant.

Future-proofing with lighting

Beyond the code requirement considerations, relying on robust, code-compliant systems is integral to future proofing a building as well. This helps ensure that the lighting controls put in today aren’t going to be obsolete in a few years.

Having a system in place that can accommodate future upgrades and support integrations with other systems like HVAC and building management systems (BMS) can help customers save on energy usage and streamline overall efficiency.

For example, lighting fixtures and systems with integrated controls, like luminaire level lighting control (LLLC), allow for more control over lighting output and reduced energy consumption as they optimize energy use at the luminaire level. They are also equipped with sensors and can integrate with smart technology, allowing for real-time adjustments based on environmental conditions and user preference.

The reason to retrofit

In some cases, before advanced lighting controls become an option, a retrofit will first be required to upgrade to the most current technology, setting the project up for long-term success.

Retrofits are generally quicker and more cost-effective than new construction, especially when energy incentives are considered, which can help offset the costs with faster ROI. With retrofits, contractors also don’t typically need to work on the main structural aspects of the building, which can introduce a number of unexpected elements to a project.

While the scope of retrofits can vary project to project, there are a number of options — from retrofit kits that fit into your existing troffers, to new replacement fixtures that have new warranties, the best optics and can leverage your existing wiring — that can help contractors more quickly execute a job and minimize overall disruption to the building tenants.

For projects that implement LED lighting and controls as part of their retrofit, customers often expect to see a significant reduction in electricity bills, but the actual amount can vary considerably. For example, the amount of energy saved by moving from older LEDs to new LEDs typically isn’t significant, but can have secondary benefits such as better lighting, longer life, lower maintenance costs, greater insight into energy usage, and easier integration into HVAC and BMS systems.

Finding the right partner for lighting success

Clearly, there’s more to lighting controls than simply turning fixtures on and off. Contractors need to ensure they understand the relevant codes and standards, including local ones. The right control systems can help customers future-proof their buildings, potentially expanding the benefits beyond energy savings. And, in many cases, contractors may need to perform a retrofit before they can install the most modern controls.

While their function seems simple, lighting control systems impact the bottom line and can enhance project outcomes, but contractors may need help maximizing the benefits for their customers. Having a trusted partner on-hand can help ensure that you not only have access to top-tier lighting control products and solutions, but also expertise that can help you navigate code requirements and other key considerations.