Lighting Controls: A Roadmap for Retrofits
Part 1: Why Are Managers Specifying Lighting Controls?
Part 2: Lighting Controls: Biggest Specification Challenges
Part 3: Lighting-Control Retrofits: Wireless Technology Lowers Project Cost
Part 4: Lighting Controls: Commissioning, Training Critical
Part 5: Lighting Controls: Take Advantage of Rebates, Tax Deductions
Part 6: The Role of Lighting Controls in Demand Response
Part 7: PRODUCT FOCUS: Lighting Controls
Why Are Managers Specifying Lighting Controls?
By Chris Matt, Managing Editor - Print & E-Media - April 2010
Maintenance and engineering managers specify lighting controls for a host of reasons.
Is code compliance a driver? Yes. How about using lighting controls as a means to becoming a more sustainable facility? That, too. Does improving energy efficiency play a role in that decision? Absolutely.
Whether those three reasons or something more specific to an individual organization drive the specification process, manufacturers of lighting-control technology know managers in commercial and institutional facilities are considering controls more than ever. That development means manufacturers are positioning themselves to have the solutions for managers' lighting-control needs.
"In today's economy, more than ever, facility managers are being held accountable for operating budgets," says Eric Fournier, director of product marketing with WattStopper. "One piece of a manager's operational puzzle is to provide energy-efficiency improvements with demonstrated performance and new ways to improve the return on investment (ROI).
"Other important reasons include: energy savings; code compliance; sustainable building practices; convenience to building managers, as well as occupants; safety and security for occupants and visitors; and more flexibility in controlling lighting throughout the space."
