Previously, we covered the basics of lighting control rebates. We reviewed how utilities categorize and incentivize all kinds of lighting controls. We’ve hit the simple “widget” approach to controls, and the more complex “systems” approach.
As we discussed in Part I, there are a number of methods the utilities use to incentivize controls. We are going to take a look at the easiest method...Fixed
Fixed rebates, where the utilities has set a fixed amount per sensor, can have some additional requirements set in order to get the rebates. The most common requirement is a minimum controlled watts. The utility to achieve a certain amount of energy savings using the control, and the more fixtures that are controlled by the sensor, the higher the energy savings.
Another requirement can be a minimum wattage reduction, again for achieving a certain level of energy savings. A further common requirement is that the control is “automatic." Meaning that if an occupant can easily override the control, then the potential for savings is reduced. Particularly, the hard requirement is that automatically turning a light off or down is not able to be impacted by a human.
In the US & Canada, the range of incentives for this control is $90-$3.
This is illustrated in the following map.
The state is represented by the average highest occupancy control incentive for simple Fixed type rebates. Many of these programs with the highest incentives have different tiers based on the amount of wattage controlled, so check your program documentation.
Photocells for outdoor lighting are worth looking at as well. They are required by code in many jurisdictions, so there are less utilities that offer incentives for photocells, as illustrated in this map
Similar to the map above, the state is represented by the average highest outdoor photocell incentive for simple Fixed type rebates. Many of these programs with the highest incentives have different tiers based on the amount of wattage controlled, so check your program documentation.
In summary, we’ve had a long journey and covered a lot of ground. We’ve seen the variety of approaches and economics for lighting control incentives throughout the US & Canada. Generally, lighting control incentives can be a great way to afford to increase energy savings and generate a better ROI for your project!