Regulations

DLC: Final Version of Networked Lighting Controls Technical Requirements Version NLC5.1

The DLC is pleased to release the final version of Networked Lighting Controls Technical Requirements Version NLC5.1 ahead of the annual NLC listing update in August 2024. NLC5.1 is a minor revision that contains updates to the policy’s cybersecurity requirements and is effective on August 1,…

Published by LED professional ·

DLC: Final Version of Networked Lighting Controls Technical Requirements Version NLC5.1

When properly applied, networked lighting controls increase the energy savings of a lighting project by roughly 50% compared to a transition from legacy lighting to LEDs alone. However, lighting projects that involve networked lighting controls are still under-represented in the market. This missed opportunity limits our ability to not only capture energy savings but also to help future proof our investments in LED upgrades.

The DLC NLC program has helped energy efficiency programs enable incentives for networked lighting controls by creating technical requirements that improve cybersecurity, energy reporting, and interoperability. Version NLC5.1 includes minor updates in key areas.

NLC5.1 Updates

Based on stakeholder comments from the public comment period, the Energy Monitoring section of the Technical Requirements remains virtually unchanged. This section will be updated after the ANSI C137.9 standard has been published, to align more closely with the ANSI C137.5 and C137.9 standards.

Version NLC5.1 includes the following updates.

Cybersecurity Updates:

  • Now accepts PSA-certified chip level 1
  • Includes updated criteria for acceptance

Other Updates:

  • A new section clarifies Primary Use Designations, such as “Whole Building” and “Portfolio”.
  • The “Requirements Other Than Control Capabilities” section is now formatted as Table 0, rather than as text.
  • The words “Interior” and “Exterior” were changed to “Indoor” and “Outdoor” to align with other DLC documents.

View NLC5.1 Technical Requirements

If you have questions about NLC5.1, please email info@designlights.org.

Did you like this article?

Share this article

You could also like this

Regulations

IEC 60598-2-24:2026 published — updated requirements for limited-surface-temperature luminaires

The new edition of IEC 60598-2-24:2026 has been officially published. It specifies essential safety requirements for luminaires intended for use where combustible dust or flammable materials are present, necessitating strict control of enclosure surface temperatures to prevent fire or ignition. The revision aligns test methods and construction requirements with recent developments in industrial and specialist lighting and with the latest edition of the general standard CEI EN 60598-1:2024. Publication of the EN and subsequent CEI standard will follow as formal steps, after unanimous positive votes. ASSIL members can contact the Technical Area for clarification.

Regulations

The EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) Is Coming

Europe aims to become climate-neutral by 2050 under the European Green Deal. A key pillar of this initiative is the revised European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), which all 27 EU Member States are required to implement beginning in 2026.

Regulations

DLC NLC v5.2: What the Latest DesignLights Consortium Technical Requirements Mean for Networked Lighting Controls - Action Services Group

DLC NLC v5.2 provides a clearer framework for evaluating modern networked lighting controls standards for manufacturers, specifiers, facility managers, and utility program administrators, and improves alignment with smart building initiatives and energy efficiency programs.

Regulations

DLC Released Updated Networked Lighting Controls Technical Requirements

Reinforcing the role of lighting controls as the foundation for deeper energy savings through connected commercial lighting, the DesignLights Consortium (DLC) finalized updates to its Networked Lighting Controls (NLC) Technical Requirements. NLC systems that apply for and meet the requirements are…

LuminusEdison optoLTF TechnologyLoreos

The latest Press Releases

Explore All

Stay current with our monthly Update from the lighting industry

LEDprofessional Newsletter

You will receive a confirmation e-mail. Unsubscribe anytime.