scope:

The scope of this paper includes a framework used to gauge the effectiveness of different lighting control methods. This paper is indifferent to the manufacturer of a controls system and provides a modular approach to measuring the potential savings realized from various lighting systems.

Purpose

To justify their investments, utilities must have a way to capture the certain savings associated with incentive programs for lighting systems.

Energy efficiency programs offer rebates and other financial incentives in return for residential and commercial building owners installing energy-efficient lighting systems. For this whitepaper, we define a lighting system as a combination of controls, sensors, lamps and/or luminaires. When used effectively, these incentives offset the building owner's capital cost to install products and systems, which greatly reduce a building's total energy consumption. As an investment option for utilities, these programs offer a compelling return by maximizing the power generation capacity of existing power plants already in service.

While the potential to save energy short term is very clear, a method is necessary to estimate the long-term average savings that can be captured based on the specific efficiency measures selected by a building owner. This paper describes the complexity of this determination and suggests a potential path forward. To be successful utilities must have a method of capturing the portion of those savings that are certain to be achieved. We identify these certain savings by first selecting the proper assumptions up front which will then be used to estimate the potential energy savings associated with a retrofit or new construction project. These potential savings are then further refined based on the specific efficiency measures chosen for the project, which in turn determines the portion of savings that are certain to occur.

Note: The terms "Lamp" and "Luminaire" are used interchangeably throughout this white paper.