Inside Look at ENERGY STAR Luminaires Spec 2.0

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary testing and labeling program that verifies that energy-efficient lighting products provide comparable performance as incumbent-technology products while saving energy. ENERGY STAR is used as a qualification for product rebates by a number of utilities.

On June 1, the EPA released the new (final) Luminaires v2.0 spec, which will replace v1.2 on June 1, 2016.

All previously certified products must recertify by that time.

While ENERGY STAR is focused on residential product, it also covers commercial accent, downlight, undercabinet task and portable task lighting.

With v2.0, EPA set out to streamline and simplify requirements, testing and certification. Efficacy levels were also increased to keep pace with advancing technology.

Here are some significant changes:

• Distinction between residential and commercial luminaires eliminated
• Surface-mounted LED retrofit products, both wall sconce and ceiling mounts, now included (but not self-ballasted lamps or products that use an existing ballast)
• Outdoor category expanded with differentiation between directional and non-directional luminaires
• Cove and undercabinet luminaires, now a combined category, must operate at a minimum of 50 lumens/W instead of 29 lumens/W. Light output is simplified to 125 lumens/linear ft. Asymmetrical distribution is no longer required.
• Downlights must operate at a minimum of 55 lumens/W instead of 42.
• LED downlight retrofits must operate at a minimum of 60 lumens/W instead of 42. The retrofit must tested within a luminaire.
• Accent lights must operate at a minimum of 55 lumens/W instead of 35. Wider beams are now allowed.
• Outdoor luminaires must operate at a minimum of 60 lumens/W instead of 35. Luminaires must be certified to IDA or carry their seal of approval.
• Portable desk task lights must operate at a minimum of 50 lumens/W instead of 29.
• For omnidirectional products (including wall sconce and surface-mounted downlight retrofit products), minimum efficacy has been established at 65 lumens/W. Most luminaires must produce at least 450 lumens, while decorative pendants, wall sconce luminaires and retrofits, and single-head bath vanity lights must emit at least 250 lumens. Surface-mounted ceiling retrofits must produce at least 800 lumens.

Click here to download the spec and learn more.

Craig DiLouie

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