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CATEGORY: Projects » Retrofits
By Lighting Controls Association, on February 15, 2012
Leviton and the University of California Santa Cruz’s (UCSC) Science and Engineering Library’s joint project has been named a recipient of two significant awards.
The university utilized Leviton’s LevNet RF™, a high-performance line of wireless occupancy sensors, switches and accessories that feature EnOcean’s energy-harvesting technology, to aid in helping reduce the library’s energy consumption by 50 percent.
For their efforts, UCSC was awarded the “Best Practice Lighting Award” at the 2011 California Higher Education Sustainability Conference and the Wireless Innovation Project of the Year” award bestowed by the EnOcean Alliance, a 250-member consortium of companies working to standardize and internationalize energy harvesting wireless technology for green intelligent buildings.
The school was concerned that existing lighting in the library was in use for nearly 20 hours a day, leading to daily energy waste. Daily occupancy of the building varied greatly and did not follow a reliable pattern. Facing time constraints and the potential high cost of conventional wired technologies, the energy team chose to use Leviton’s LevNet RF products to achieve their energy goals.
The LevNet RF receivers were paired to wireless occupancy sensors and light sensors that control the updated and more efficient T8 light fixtures. The wireless light sensors control all perimeter lighting fixtures adjacent to windows and takes advantage of daylight harvesting. With an abundance of ambient lighting, these sensors will keep the lights off resulting in greatly reduced energy waste. The introduction of Leviton occupancy sensors, combined with a lighting upgrade, resulted in an anticipated $48,000 annually savings in energy costs for UCSC. The university was also able to make use of an energy rebate incentive for the replacement of the inefficient T12 light fixtures and an additional incentive was given for the occupancy and light sensors that further reduced the project cost.
By Lighting Controls Association, on February 1, 2011
Electrical Contractor Magazine recently published a major story on lighting controls featuring LCA members Leviton, Lutron, OSRAM SYLVANIA and WattStopper, in addition to comments from Craig DiLouie representing the Lighting Controls Association. The article, titled “Take Control,” outlines control strategies that building owners and managers can deploy now to reduce energy costs and increase flexibility in existing building lighting systems.
Get the full story here.
By Craig DiLouie, on August 15, 2010
Last month, we covered regulations covering fluorescent ballasts that have essentially eliminated the magnetic T12 ballast with few exceptions, including F40T12, F96T12 and F96T12HO ballasts for both full-wattage and energy-saving versions of these lamps.
Two years later, in 2012, additional regulations will take effect, creating new energy standards for selected linear T5, T8 and T12 lamps. The net result, with few exceptions, is a majority of 4-ft. linear and 2-ft. U-shaped T12, many 8-ft. T12 and T12HO, and some low-color-rendering 4-ft. T8 lamps will be eliminated.
Based on these facts, one could make a simple argument that it is now time to upgrade existing lighting and control systems to improve energy efficiency and lighting quality.
Replace individually or in a planned upgrade?
A basic choice will be whether to replace the existing T12 lighting system all at once in a planned upgrade or replace individual components as they fail.
At first glance, replacing individual components as they fail appears to be the easiest path forward as it avoids the upfront cost of equipment and installation labor and potential disruption of a renovation.
However, a planned upgrade presents several major advantages:
- good lighting performance, uniformity and space appearance by switching from T12 to T8 all at once, avoiding confusion resulting from maintaining two incompatibility lamp and ballast types in inventory; and most importantly:
- higher energy savings and greater lighting quality resulting from reevaluating the existing lighting system and upgrading it to current best practices. Once a decision is made to upgrade the lighting system, the owner has taken control of the situation and can maximize the benefit of the new lighting.
The biggest energy-saving and lighting quality opportunities are in:
- older, overlighted buildings that use older technologies such as T12 systems
- where utility costs are very high; and
- where lighting is uncontrolled and left ON all night.
T12 systems, for example, can be upgraded to realize energy savings as high as 50% or more in offices, classrooms and other applications, according to the National Lighting Bureau.
Retrofit or redesign?
The next basic choice facing the facility manager is whether to retrofit or redesign. In a retrofit, new lamps and ballasts are installed in existing fixtures and existing controls replaced. In a redesign, the fixtures themselves may be replaced or moved.
Good lighting quality accounts for factors such as visual comfort, glare, uniformity, color rendering, lighting on walls and ceilings, and harsh patterns, shadows and flicker. If the building’s primary spaces have been retasked to new purposes for which the existing lighting system provides insufficient lighting conditions, or uniformity is poor, or there is little light on walls and ceilings, or there are obvious, unaddressed sources of glare, and if occupants are unhappy with their lighting, then the space may benefit from a redesign.
The owner may benefit prior to the upgrade by simply asking occupants—the people who use the lighting regularly—whether they are satisfied with their lighting, what their lighting problems are, and what they want.
Lamps and ballasts
Energy-efficient lighting technologies have had decades to develop and so many good, reliable solutions are now available from manufacturers.
Regarding lamps and ballasts, consider T8 systems. There are now 23W, 25W, 28W, 32W (normal output) and 32W (high output, or “Super T8”) T8 lamps available offering a choice of power and light output.
There are also electronic ballasts available with a range of efficiencies and ballast factors enabling further tuning of light output. The most efficient ballasts carry the NEMA Premium mark on the ballast label. Dimmable ballasts are becoming more efficient, versatile and affordable, making dimmable general lighting a reality.
Regarding fixtures, consider T5 systems, direct/indirect lighting and, if recessed, volumetric-distribution fixtures that place some light on walls to eliminate the “cave effect” common with some parabolic fixtures. LED lighting offers exciting opportunities to dramatically improve efficiency but as the overall technology is still relatively new, owners should proceed with caution, particularly when confronted by options such as LED T8 lamp replacements, which have not faired well in independent product testing at the Department of Energy.
Lighting controls
According to the New Buildings Institute, advanced lighting controls can generate up to 50% lighting energy savings in existing buildings. Effective strategies include automatic shutoff, light reduction control, daylight harvesting and demand response.
The biggest challenge to incorporating advanced control strategies to an existing building is adding low-voltage control wiring, generally limiting opportunities for installation of sophisticated control systems. As a result, the simplest upgrade options involve the least amount of rewiring or simply swapping out older ballasts and controls for new controls.
 The easiest controls retrofit involves replacing components with the least amount of rewiring. While this often leads to occupancy sensors and lighting panelboard upgrades, new wireless controls and the falling cost of dimming ballasts are expanding the potential role for lighting control in building upgrades. Photo courtesy of WattStopper. The first lighting control strategy to consider is automatic shutoff. It is considered the easiest, lowest-risk path to energy savings and is relatively simple to set up and commission. If LEED (for existing buildings) is used as a model path or actual requirement for the upgrade, this will be essential, as LEED requires that buildings meet the ASHRAE 90.1 energy standard as a prerequisite to gaining points for transcending it.
Start at the lighting panel. Are there large, open spaces in the building with predictable hours of operation? Are there public spaces where the lights must stay ON even when a space is unoccupied? If so, consider upgrading the existing lighting panelboard to an intelligent lighting control panel that offers programmable scheduling. Be sure to give local users override capability with a maximum 2- to 4-hour override.
Next, consider replacing the wall switch. Are there smaller, enclosed spaces in the building that are intermittently occupied during the day and are lighted with instant-ON light sources? If so, consider replacing toggle wall switches with occupancy sensors. If there is a clear line of sight between the switch and the primary task area, PIR sensors can present a cost-effective option. If greater sensitivity is needed for small levels of motion or if there are obstacles between the wall switch and the task, consider ultrasonic. For the ultimate in reliability, consider dual-technology sensors.
If the space is a private office already circuited for bilevel switching, consider replacing the manual switches with a manual-ON/auto-OFF occupancy sensor for the highest positive energy savings and some flexibility. If the space requires an occupancy sensor be installed in a location other than at the wall switch, consider wireless occupancy sensors that run on batteries or ambient light in the space harvested using an integral solar cell. These sensors install anywhere within range of the receiver switch, which replaces the wall switch, and present no wiring requirements, although wireless technology is presently a premium option. Similarly, wireless photosensors are also available.
If the upgrade involves replacing light fixtures, consider integral controls. In a workstation-specific open office lighting layout, for example, direct/indirect fixtures can be installed that include an integral occupancy sensor and/or, if placed in a daylight zone, a photosensor and dimmable ballast, with the control wiring located inside the fixture. If the space is a hibay lighting application where metal halide is being replaced by fluorescent fixtures, consider fixture-integrated or mounted line-voltage occupancy sensors, which can be an economical addition to a new fluorescent fixture or separate add-on that is field installed. Photosensors could be similarly added for control of fixtures mounted over spaces that receive ample daylight from skylights.
Light levels can be stepped using a single ballast called a step dimming or light level switching ballast. If the existing space is already circuited for bilevel switching, step-dimming ballasts can be installed to ensure light levels are reduced uniformly, without a checkerboard pattern. These ballasts can operate without low-voltage wiring. Most products are programmed-start T8 ballasts, which may experience a loss of efficacy during light level reduction; dimming to 50%, for example, may reduce wattage by 40%. Instant-start step-dimming ballasts are available that offer proportional reductions in light output and input watts, although instant-start operation is not recommended by some manufacturers for applications with five or more ON/OFF cycles per day. Other hi/lo switching opportunities include corridors that receive a lot of daylight (with a photosensor) and stairwells (with an occupancy sensor).
Continuous-dimming ballast costs have been falling for years, putting this control method within reach of many upgrade projects. Efficiency has also improved such that dimmable ballasts are available that are as efficacious as standard instant-start fixed-output ballasts. Look for the NEMA Premium label for the most efficient ballasts.
 Step-dimming ballasts provide uniform light level reduction without a checkerboard pattern. Photo courtesy of Universal Lighting Technologies. Some dimming ballasts are available that communicate with lighting controls using existing line-voltage wiring. Two-wire phase-control dimming ballasts use existing line-voltage lines for both power and communication and are suitable for any application where greater flexibility is desired, such as conference rooms, boardrooms and private offices. A dimming range of 100-5% is available for T8 lamps and CFLs, and 100-1% for T5HO lamps. The lighting is typically controlled via local controls accessible to occupants.
Line-voltage stepped dimming (“load shedding” or “demand response”) ballasts may be combined with specialized energy management systems enabling a preset light level reduction, with a fade transition between light levels, in response to a variety of control inputs such as photosensors and schedules. The ballast may be combined with a signal transmitter that initiates load shedding in response to some type of demand response program. While demand response is still emerging as a trend, it will likely play a larger role in lighting in the future.
The ultimate control upgrade involves creating a fully realized lighting control system combining multiple strategies. In spaces where stationary tasks are performed, dimming will be preferable to switching while the space is occupied. If the ballasts will be replaced with dimmable ballasts, then multiple strategies should be enacted to make this installation more economical. When wiring a control system enacting multiple strategies around a dimmable ballast, one should consider a digital communication architecture, which eliminates multiple home runs and produces installation savings. If a digital architecture is chosen, one can consider creating a system out of DALI-compatible components, or specifying a proprietary system built around relays in distributed power packs and occupancy sensors, or digital dimming ballasts.
Finally, if the existing installation already includes automatic lighting controls that will be retained after the upgrade, ensure these controls are working properly by re-commissioning them as part of the project. The system may have been improperly designed, installed or commissioned when first put in place, or its operating parameters may have drifted out of sync with the space and how its lighting is used. Re-commissioning can therefore become a source of energy savings by itself.
The bottom line is that in most spaces, simple control strategies can be economically incorporated into lamp/ballast upgrades and fixture replacement projects, accelerating energy savings and, in some cases, improving flexibility.
By Craig DiLouie, on July 23, 2010
This month, Federal efficiency standards regulating fluorescent magnetic T12 ballasts entered their final phase, effectively eliminating these ballasts from the market, with few exceptions.
Between 2005 and 2010, efficiency standards created by Department of Energy regulations became phased into effect, covering magnetic ballasts designed to operate full-wattage F40T12, F96T12 and F96T12HO lamps.
By 2006, ballast manufacturers were no longer allowed to sell them to fixture manufacturers and fixture manufacturers were no longer allowed to sell them to the public.
As of July 1, 2010, ballast manufacturers were prohibited from manufacturing even replacement ballasts that did not meet the new standards.
Between July 2009 and July 2010, additional rules created by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 went into effect that expanded the energy standards to cover energy-saving versions of these T12 lamps (e.g., 34W F40T12 lamps).
As no ballasts meet these standards, the industry’s least-efficient fluorescent ballasts have been eliminated from the market, which will result in a shift to higher-efficiency ballasts (i.e., electronic) in existing installations. The market has already largely shifted to electronic ballasts in new fixtures but a significant number of magnetic ballasts are sold each year for replacement purposes in existing buildings. For example, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), about 7% of the ballast market was magnetic ballasts.
Even as owners begin to upgrade existing buildings, magnetic ballasts will continue to be sold, however. These include recognized exceptions, including ballasts designed:
• for dimming to 50 percent or less of their maximum light output;
• for use with two F96T12HO lamps at ambient temperatures of -20ºF and for use in outdoor signs; or
• labeled for use only in residential applications and have a power factor of less than 0.90.
On July 14, 2012, recently enacted DOE regulations will take effect that will also eliminate the T12 lamps that the ballasts operate.
The new DOE rules expand on efficiency rules established by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 by strengthening standards for covered lamps types while also covering 8-ft. T8 lamps, 4-ft. T5 lamps and more wattages of 4-ft. T8 and T12 lamps. The net result, with few exceptions, is a majority of 4-ft. linear and 2-ft. U-shaped T12 lamps, many 8-ft. T12 and T12HO, and some low-color-rendering 4-ft. T8 lamps will be eliminated. While no longer popular in new construction, an estimated 30 percent of fluorescent 4-ft. lamps sold every year are T12, according to NEMA market data.
For more information about the law and current product availability, consult the ballast manufacturers.
By Lighting Controls Association, on May 23, 2010
 Kaiser Permanente installed WattStopper lighting controls as part of a warehouse renovation designed to improve lighting and reduced energy consumption. The upgrade resulted in better task lighting throughout the facility and energy savings of over 40%, as detailed in the following case study.
Managers of a 350,000 square foot Kaiser Permanente distribution warehouse in Northern California were dissatisfied with the facility’s lighting. Task illumination was ineffective, maintenance was difficult, and energy use was high. To improve the situation, they decided to completely retrofit the lighting and add energy saving controls.
Robert Ofsevit, vice president of Concord, California-based Alamo Lighting, coordinated a turnkey upgrade, including over 400 WattStopper occupancy sensors and time switches. More than a year after completion, Ofsevit’s design is exceeding expectations for performance and energy savings.
Warehouse lighting
Prior to the upgrade, much of the lighting remained on close to 24 hours a day from Sunday night through Friday afternoon. The space was lit with metal halide, high pressure sodium and older fluorescent sources. Light distribution was poor: illumination levels were insufficient for many tasks, but were far too high in some areas.
Before developing a lighting and control plan, Ofsevit assessed the safety requirements of the facility, as well as the tasks being performed. The new controls ensure that lights in many areas are not turned on until they are needed, and are turned off after they are no longer needed.
The new lighting uses just one lamp type – a 5000° Kelvin extra long life 4’ T8. Fixture types, reflectors and ballasts were carefully specified to deliver appropriate lighting levels for different areas and tasks. The overall connected load was reduced.
The upgraded fluorescent lighting provides better color rendition, less shadowing and less glare than the old lighting. Additionally, lumen maintenance is better and building maintenance is easier. Both the new lighting and the controls have been overwhelmingly embraced by employees, who now feel far more comfortable working in the space.
Integrating controls
WattStopper line voltage passive infrared (PIR) HB occupancy sensors control individual six-lamp high bay fixtures in the warehouse rack aisles. The PIR coverage, using aisleway lenses, ensures that lighting turns on in each section of the aisle as a worker approaches. Lighting in many rack aisles remains off for much of the day.
HB sensors also control approximately half of the fixtures in high-ceilinged packing areas and in the main aisles, which experience high levels of forklift traffic. The rest of the fixtures remain on during working hours. Keeping sufficient lighting on throughout the space helps workers feel secure and comfortable in the large warehouse space.
Previously overlit under-mezzanine spaces were efficiently retrofit, and a number of these spaces were rewired to create small zones of task lighting. Now, approximately half the fixtures remain on to provide illumination for workers walking through the areas. Workers can turn on the additional lighting in each zone as needed, using a conveniently located TS digital time switch. Lights turn off automatically following the user-selected time period.
 Bi-level lighting in private offices is controlled by DW dual technology, dual relay wall switch sensors. Dual technology was selected to best detect small motion. The first lighting level (66%) is switched on automatically upon occupancy. The second level (33%) may be switched manually. In practice the second level is seldom used, contributing to energy savings.
Controls in other areas were selected to suit the unique needs of each space. UT ultrasonic sensors, which can sense around partitions, control open office spaces, lunch and break rooms. A time clock controls energy-efficient lighting in a secure storage area, providing significant savings compared to previous 24/7 operation of older generation T8 fixtures. A low voltage digital time switch is available for after hours override.
Resulting energy savings
Kaiser Permanente’s Marvin Cave, Facility Manager, Regional Building Operations, NCAL, notes, “The lighting upgrade has improved the quality of lighting in both the office area and warehouse, and saved a significant amount of energy and utility costs.”
Analysis of utility records shows a reduction in energy use, measured in kilowatt hours, of over 40% for the 12 month period following installation. The energy savings will pay back the cost of the upgrade in three years, net of a $71,000 Pacific Gas and Electric rebate.
Selecting the controls
Kaiser Permanente managers selected the winning lineup of design, project management and lighting and control technology based on positive prior experience. The company in 2003 implemented a lighting upgrade with controls at another warehouse facility, using the same team, and that installation continues to perform successfully.
Kaiser Permanente is a leader in the health care industry when it comes to energy conservation. For over 20 years it has worked to reduce energy use and costs – from energy-efficient lighting upgrades, to harnessing renewable and sustainable energy to help power its hospitals, medical offices, and other buildings.
For more information about WattStopper, visit www.wattstopper.com.
By Craig DiLouie, on November 12, 2008
The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005 created the Commercial Buildings Deduction (CBD), which established an accelerated tax deduction rewarding investment in energy-efficient interior lighting, HVAC/hot water systems and building envelope.
Initially set to expire December 31, 2007 and then December 31, 2008, the CBD was recently extended by Congress to expire in five years: December 31, 2013.
The Deduction
A tax deduction is a cost subtracted from adjusted gross income when calculating taxable income; tax liability is not reduced dollar for dollar, as is the case with a tax credit, but instead in proportion to the taxpayer’s tax bracket.
Deducting the cost of a capital investment such as new lighting is not special. What is special about the CBD is the owner can potentially write off the entire cost of the new lighting in the tax year in which it is placed in service, instead of capitalized and depreciated or amortized over time. So it’s an accelerated tax deduction: If a cost item associated with installing new lighting is normally depreciated and claimed over a period of years, it can now be claimed in a single tax year.
The CBD essentially has two levels depending on whether one wants to achieve savings targets for the entire building—interior lighting, HVAC/hot water and building envelope—or each of these systems individually. And the Interim Lighting Rule, which was supposed to be in effect only until the partial deduction rules were written, is still in effect.
The Interim Lighting Rule does not require special software or building energy modeling and is therefore relatively simple to implement, so we will focus on this part of the CBD in this article.
Click here to learn more about the complete deduction and the partial deduction rules.
The Interim Lighting Rule
The Interim Lighting Rule enables commercial building owners to deduct the full cost of new interior lighting, capped at $0.30-$0.60/sq.ft. on the sliding scale in Table 1, if the new lighting achieves a lighting power density (W/sq.ft.) that is 25-40% lower than the maximum values published in Standard 90.1-2001’s Table 9.3.1.1 or Table 9.3.1.2 (not including additional power allowances).
The exception is warehouses: The lighting system must reduce power density by at least 50% to earn a deduction of up to $0.60/sq.ft.
Both retrofit and new construction projects qualify, as long as the project is located in the United States or its territories.
Qualifying building types are listed in Table 9.3.1.1, although IRS Notice 2008-40 adds nonresidential unconditioned garage spaces to building types covered by the CBD. Houses of worship, meanwhile, do not qualify because religious organizations are tax-exempt and their buildings are not owned by the public.
So if a retrofit project in a 100,000-sq.ft. commercial office building costs $100,000 and the cost is $0.60/sq.ft., then $60,000 could be written off in the tax year the new lighting is placed in service, and the remaining $40,000 would be written off normally.
Besides reaching a reduction in power density, three other conditions must be met to qualify for the CBD under the Interim Lighting Rule:
• Install all mandatory controls and circuiting provisions in Standard 90.1-2001 (but only if a new construction or qualifying lighting alteration project, as retrofits—projects in which only lamps, ballasts and/or controls are replaced—are not covered by 90.1).
• Install bi-level switching in all occupancies except hotel and motel guest rooms, store rooms, restrooms, public lobbies and parking garages.
• Achieve the minimum recommended calculated light levels as established in the 9th Edition of the IES Lighting Handbook.
What is “bi-level switching”? Generally, bi-level switching is manual or automatic control (or a combination of the two) that provides at least two levels of lighting power in a space (not including OFF). NEMA has stated that bi-level switching typically produces 10-15% energy savings.
Multi-level switching scheme enabling 0%, 33%, 66% and 100% light and power levels. Graphic courtesy of DOE.
Dimming or switching can be used. It can be as simple as a split-ballasting system with the lighting assigned to two circuits, each controllable from a separate wall switch that is accessible to occupants (unless remote access is required for safety or security). The A/B switching can be based on alternate ballasts switching or alternate fixtures. From this basic scheme, other options become available. For example, the control can be a photosensor, occupancy sensor or input from a schedule instead of a wall switch, or alternatively dimming ballasts can be used that respond to a range of control inputs.
Also note that Standard 90.1-2001 only recognizes permanently installed lighting, so upgrading portable task lighting does not qualify as a contribution to the CBD. Similarly, the Standard exempts exit signs from interior lighting power calculations, and therefore exit sign upgrades do not qualify as a contribution toward earning the CBD.
Project Certification
For a building owner to claim the CBD, the project must be certified by a qualified individual—a contractor or engineer properly licensed as such in the jurisdiction where the building is located. The individual, who cannot be an employee of the building owner, must demonstrate in writing to the owner that he or she has the qualifications to do the certification.
According to IRS Notice 2008-40, the qualified individual must document the reduction in lighting power density in a thorough and consistent manner, with the certification including:
• Contact information for the qualified individual performing the certification.
• Address of the building to which the certification applies.
• Statement by the qualified individual that the interior lighting systems have been, or are planned to be, incorporated into the building that meet all of the requirements of the Interim Lighting Rule (suitable reduction in lighting power density, controls and circuiting in compliance with Standard 90.1-2001, etc.).
The certification must also include a statement by the qualified individual that:
• Field inspections were performed by a qualified individual after the lighting was placed in service;
• That these inspections were performed in accordance with testing procedures prescribed in the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) as Energy Savings Modeling and Inspection Guidelines for Commercial Building Federal Tax Deduction (PDF) (see pages 1-2) and currently in effect; and
• These inspections confirmed the building is meeting the specified reduction in lighting power density.
The qualified individual must also provide:
• A list showing the energy-efficient lighting components and features of the building and projected power density;
• Statement that the building owner has received an explanation of the energy efficiency features of the building and projected power density; and
• A declaration: “Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this certification, including accompanying documents, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, the facts presented in support of this certification are true, correct and complete.”
The building owner should keep a copy of the certification in their tax records.
Click here (PDF) to see NEMA guidance on certification letters.
Software
Note that although IRS Notice 2006-52 (PDF) says the certification must include a statement that qualified computer software was used to calculate energy and power consumption and costs, this is not needed to demonstrate compliance with the Interim Lighting Rule. Instead, a spreadsheet or similar software can be used.
Public Buildings
If the building is government-owned (doesn’t pay taxes), the designer (“person that creates the technical specifications for installation of energy-efficient commercial building property”) can claim the CBD, according to IRS Notice 2008-40. If more than one designer is involved, the owner may allocate the CBD to the designer who was primarily responsible for the design or, at the owner’s discretion, among the designers.
More Info
NEMA created an excellent website at www.lightingtaxdeduction.org that explains the CBD.
By Craig DiLouie, on May 12, 2008
 The NEMA Premium Ballast special mark distinguishes the ballast as the highest-performing electronic ballast on the market. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) launched the Premium Ballast program to identify the industry’s most efficient fluorescent fixed-output and dimmable electronic T8 ballasts, thereby providing a mechanism for market recognition and specification of these products.
Ballasts qualifying as NEMA Premium Ballasts are recognizable via a special mark on the label distinguishing these products as the most efficient T8 ballasts on the market.
As of the time of publication, Advance, OSRAM SYLVANIA, Universal Lighting Technologies and GE have achieved NEMA Premium Ballast certification for their high-efficiency products. (September 2008 update: Robertson Worldwide has achived NEMA Premium Ballast certification for its high-efficiency products as well.)
In the past several years, ballast manufacturers have begun offering high-efficiency electronic ballasts that provide the same light output as a standard electronic ballast but do so more efficiently, reducing lighting power by another 2-5W, typically 3W.
However, this definition of “high efficiency” is informal: Some manufacturers have used it to describe the most efficient products, others to describe all electronic ballasts. Lack of recognition and a slightly higher cost have inhibited market adoption, frustrating manufacturers, which worked together through NEMA to overcome these barriers.
The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) had worked with NEMA to develop a definition of high-efficiency T8 ballasts—using a metric called ballast efficacy factor (BEF), expressed as ballast factor ÷ input watts x 100—which became adopted as NEMA Standard BL 2-2007 covering electronic ballasts for use with 4-ft. T8 lamps. This standard became the threshold to qualify for designation as a NEMA Premium Ballast.
It is believed this will promote the most efficient ballast options to end-users and utility rebate program generic specs, creating pull-through in the marketplace, as occurred earlier with the NEMA Premium program for electric motors. More than 25 utilities, for example, use CEE minimum performance levels in their incentive programs.
High-efficiency T8 electronic ballasts include instant-start, programmed-start and dimmable models; can be specified as low (<0.86), normal (0.86-1) and high (>1) ballast factor; are available with universal voltage; can be specified for operation of one, two, three or four lamps; and may include value-added features such as anti-striation and anti-arcing. They have no limitations compared to standard electronic ballasts.
High-efficiency ballasts can cost 10-20% more than standard electronic ballasts while producing an additional 5-7% energy savings in typical projects (see Table 1).
 Table 1. High-efficiency electronic ballasts can save an additional two to five watts per ballast, depending on the number of lamps. Source: OSRAM SYLVANIA. In an installation with two-ballasted four-lamp fluorescent fixtures on 10×10 centers (100 sq.ft. area), using high-efficiency ballasts can add about $0.03-$0.06 per sq.ft. to the cost of the project—while reducing annual operating costs by about $0.04 per sq.ft., based on an assumption of savings of $2 per ballast (or $1 per lamp) per year.
NEMA advises this simple language for specification for new light fixtures: “Luminaire shall contain a NEMA Premium electronic ballast (do not substitute).” For retrofit or spot replacement, specify: “Ballast shall be a NEMA Premium electronic ballast (do not substitute).” Then specify the starting method, number of lamps and ballast factor.
While the program currently only covers electronic ballasts operating 4-ft. T8 lamps, the NEMA Premium Ballast program may expand in the future to include T4, T5 and HID ballasts and possibly also LED drivers and power supplies.
For more information about the NEMA Premium Ballast program and to access a list of qualifying ballast models, click here (PDF).
By Lighting Controls Association, on November 18, 2007
 For years, Lander University relied on a programmable relay-based system installed in the mid 1980s to provide energy-saving scheduled control of lighting and equipment for its most vital buildings. While the system, which controlled the Learning Center, Cultural Center, Student Center and Athletic Complex, had initially served its purpose, the controls had become antiquated and unreliable. After experiencing numerous disruptions to classes and events, engineers at the state university in Greenwood, S.C., set out to research replacement options.
Engineering Services Department personnel priced equipment and installation costs for a variety of solutions and were delighted to learn about Watt Stopper/Legrand’s unique ability to upgrade older GE panels, retrofitting them with new control engines. For less than ten percent of the cost of a new system, they could refurbish the existing panels and enjoy the benefits of a sophisticated, modern control system. The university could significantly extend the life of its capital equipment and avoid sending materials to a landfill. Additionally, the upgrade would take much less time than a full replacement.
System problems
After over 20 years of service and numerous undocumented modifications, the original control system was only about 75% functional. Some relays had failed on; the lights were operational, but power was being wasted. The time required to program the system for special events was prohibitive, and the process was risky since the disk drive needed to load even a single change was unreliable and obsolete. Because of turnover, no one really understood the system.
Control requirements
Campus engineers need reliable controls that are easy to program. An early adopter of scheduled control, Lander University is among one of the most energy-efficient campuses in the state, as reported by the South Carolina Energy Office. In addition to lighting, the relays power water-source heat pumps and other electrical devices, so careful scheduling is truly central to conservation efforts.
Using Watt Stopper/Legrand’s WinControl software in conjunction with a Lighting Integrator WebLink that allows IP control of all the panels, engineers can easily create and modify schedules for equipment and lighting in individual spaces including common areas, classrooms, labs and offices. To maximize energy savings, most of the lighting is programmed for manual-on, using previously installed low voltage switches, and scheduled-off. Certain overrides are available, but engineers now prefer to adjust the control schedule as needed.
Ralph Jenkins, who supervised the upgrade, explains, “Normally equipment and lighting goes off around 5 PM, but for special events or seminars, we can have just one specific area turn off at 9 PM, for example. It used to be a nightmare to do this, but with the new scheduling software it’s easy. The system has lots of bells and whistles and is very user-friendly.”
Conversion process
The panel upgrade was completed during spring break in 2007 and caused no disruption to classes or other events. Lander engineering personnel were able to perform the work themselves under the direction of a Watt Stopper technician, and so they became more familiar with the system and will better be able to service it in the years ahead. The upgrade process involved replacing the main control card in each panel with a new card and thoroughly testing and inspecting the panel. Any failed relays were replaced. Additionally, the bulky old controller was replaced with a small dataline power supply to power the low voltage controls. Wiring was run for a Data Communications Link and the WebLink, and scheduling is now performed in a convenient location on a PC running the WinControl software.
Watt Stopper/Legrand’s Project Management Team studied the old scheduling program and consulted with Bill Hodges, Lander’s energy manager, about how the campus spaces are used. With this information, they recommended the new control strategy and input the basic scheduling program, which is much simpler than what had been used previously. Hodges commended the team and the start-up technician who completed the conversion on a job well done.
 Results
Retrofitting the old relay system allowed Lander University to continue using the portion of the controls with the longest service life while replacing parts that were obsolete. Because the panels themselves did not have to be replaced, installation costs were minimal and the project didn’t even require the services of an outside contractor.
Lander University engineers are delighted with the upgrade. The controls have been brought back to 100% operation and the existing system has been fully documented by Watt Stopper/Legrand. Strict control of energy use, which in 2004 was a scant 67.42 kBtu/sf – well below the state average of 123.93 kBtu/sf for campuses with housing, is now much easier and Bill Hodges expects to be able to achieve additional savings in the future using the many options afforded by the new controls.
Watt Stopper Products used:
PLC to CC Relay Controller Upgrade, CC Upgrade Kit, PLC to CC Switch Module Upgrade, Lighting Integrator Data Communications Link, WinControl Software, Lighting Integrator WebLink, Factory Programming and Lifetime Factory Support, On Site Commissioning of Control Panels
Benefits of the lighting control upgrade:
- Replace only obsolete parts
- Minimize installation costs
- Restore 100% functionality
- Enjoy up-to-date controls
- Schedule quick turnaround
- Extend life of equipment
- Reduce waste
- Save 90% over cost of new system
For more information about Watt Stopper/Legrand, visit www.wattstopper.com.
By Lighting Controls Association, on November 18, 2007
Latest electrical, lighting technologies on display at International Builders Show® home
 Square D® Clipsal® lighting control products from Schneider Electric were key components in a retrofit project at Fay Herron Elementary School near Las Vegas, Nev., that was honored as a Best of 2007 project by Southwest Contractor magazine. The award program, which honored the Fay Herron Elementary School Rehabilitation and Modernization project as winner of the Mechanical/Electrical category, recognizes construction and design excellence in Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico. The project was one of 218 entries submitted from Nevada, among more than 700 total entries from the tri-state area.
“The Square D Clipsal lighting control solution employed at Fay Herron Elementary School has made a significant impact on both energy savings and student learning,” said Scott Jordan, product marketing manager, Schneider Electric. “It’s expected the measures will reduce the electrical load dedicated to lighting by 50 percent at the school, along with providing easy-to-use technology to create a more effective, and brighter, learning environment for students and faculty.”
The Square D Clipsal lighting control solution at Fay Herron Elementary School employs light-level and occupancy sensors, along with attractive Neo™-style keypads. At the start of the day, when a teacher enters a classroom, an occupancy sensor near the door triggers overhead lighting and opens a damper, allowing in natural light. Then, light-level sensors determine if there is enough natural light in the room to turn off half, or all, of the artificial lights. The Square D Clipsal system turns off the artificial lights and closes the damper for an hour to accommodate video presentations, and can be easily turned back on if the presentation is less than an hour. All activity is coordinated via a Square D Clipsal Area Lighting Panel.
An eight-person jury composed of design and construction professionals judged all Best of 2007 project nominations on quality of design and construction, innovation, contribution to the community, challenges overcome and overall excellence. The Fay Herron Elementary School Rehabilitation and Modernization project will be featured in the December 2007 issue of Southwest Contractor.
For more information about Square D’s lighting control products, call 1-888-SQUARED or visit www.squaredlightingcontrol.com.
Headquartered in Palatine, Ill., the North American Operating Division of Schneider Electric had sales of $3.7 billion (U.S.) in 2006. The North American Operating Division is one of four operating divisions of Schneider Electric, headquartered in Paris, France, and markets the Square D®, Telemecanique® and Merlin Gerin® brand products to customers in the United States, Canada and Mexico. In the United States, Schneider Electric is best known by its flagship Square D brand, with Telemecanique becoming increasingly known in the industrial control and automation markets and supported by many Square D distributors. For 100 years, Square D has been a market-leading brand of electrical distribution and industrial control products, systems and services. Schneider Electric is a global electrical industry leader with 2006 sales of approximately $17.2 billion (U.S.).
By Lighting Controls Association, on April 18, 2007
 Schneider Electric announced that its Square D® Clipsal® line of lighting control products is being incorporated into a major energy retrofit project at Fay Herron Elementary School in North Las Vegas, Nev. The school, part of the Clark County School District, is the subject of a project that includes HVAC replacement and installation of new insulated walls and dropped ceilings, in addition to lighting control. Eight of the 12 buildings on the Fay Herron Elementary School campus have been completed; the entire project should conclude in summer 2007.
“Energy conservation is extremely important for schools and school districts, and at Fay Herron Elementary School, Square D Clipsal keypads and occupancy sensors reduce the electrical load, while at the same time introduce more natural light,” said Scott Jordan, Square D Clipsal Product Marketing Manager. “This helps create the best learning conditions for students and increases convenience for teachers and administrators.”
Classrooms feature Square D Clipsal four-key Neo™ lighting control keypads that are used to open dampers that admit natural light through solar reflective tubing, and close them as well. One of the two top buttons on a Neo keypad turns off the lights in the room and closes the solar reflective tubing for one hour, creating optimal conditions for a video or overhead presentation. The opposite button executes normal operating conditions if the presentation ends early.
The state of Nevada requires 55 footcandles of light in a room, plus or minus 10 percent. As soon as someone enters a classroom, the solar reflective tubing automatically opens. If the natural light does not meet 55 footcandles, the lighting control system will bring up one of the two light banks, and possibly both. As the day wears on, the system turns off one bank of lights, and then the other, if necessary.
In addition to the Neo keypad, each room also includes an occupancy sensor above the main entrance, which activates when teachers or students enter; a multilight occupancy sensor, which activates the room’s light banks and the solar reflective tubing; and a voltage-free changeover relay that connects the solar reflective tubing and the multilight occupancy sensor.
Las Vegas-based Control Contractors, Inc., won the bid to complete the renovation project and chose the Square D Clipsal product line, which was subsequently approved by the school district. Two phases of the project remain — one involving the building that houses the Fay Herron Elementary School main office, and the other covering the library, multi-purpose building and cafeteria.
For more information about Schneider Electric, visit www.squaredlightingcontrol.com.
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