Commercial Lighting Compliance
Energy codes, certification programs, and procurement requirements that affect commercial lighting specifications. Plain-language guides for electrical contractors.
California Energy Code — Title 24 Part 6
The most stringent commercial lighting energy code in the US. Required for all new construction and major renovations in California. Covers lighting power density, controls, and photometric requirements.
- ▸Lighting power density (LPD) limits by space type
- ▸Occupancy sensors required in most commercial spaces
- ▸Daylighting controls required in daylight zones
- ▸JA8 product certification required for most luminaires
DesignLights Consortium (DLC) Qualification
The primary qualification program for commercial LED products. DLC listing is required by most utility rebate programs and increasingly required by energy codes for specific product types.
- ▸Required for most utility rebate programs nationwide
- ▸DLC Premium designation for highest efficiency tier
- ▸Luminaire efficacy, CRI, and distribution requirements
- ▸Listed products available at deslignlights.org/qpl
ASHRAE 90.1 — Energy Standard for Buildings
The reference commercial energy standard adopted by most US states. Sets lighting power density limits, control requirements, and exterior lighting zone restrictions for commercial buildings.
- ▸LPD limits by building area method or space-by-space method
- ▸Automatic shutoff controls required in most spaces
- ▸Exterior lighting power limits by zone
- ▸Daylighting controls required in large daylit spaces
Buy America / Buy American Requirements
Federal procurement requirements mandating domestically manufactured products for federally funded projects. Applies to transportation, infrastructure, and many government building projects.
- ▸Required for projects receiving federal funding (transportation, infrastructure)
- ▸Products must be manufactured in the US with domestic components
- ▸Several manufacturers carry Buy America compliant product lines
- ▸Documentation requirements vary by funding source and agency
ENERGY STAR Commercial Lighting
EPA program recognizing the most energy-efficient commercial lighting products. ENERGY STAR qualification unlocks additional utility rebates and may be required by green building programs.
- ▸Stricter efficiency requirements than DLC baseline
- ▸Available for luminaires, LED lamps, and controls
- ▸Qualifies for additional rebate tiers at many utilities
- ▸Recognized by LEED, WELL, and Green Globes programs