Harmonization of Wireless Dimming Lighting Controls Research Project

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is currently conducting research into the harmonization of ZigBee, BACnet—or building automation and control network—and DALI—or digital addressable lighting interface—systems in wireless dimming lighting controls. Four proposed modules will enable "plug-and-play" capabilities for all DALI-compatible controls and BACnet-compatible systems.

Project Description

This project seeks to develop "plug-and-play" capabilities for lighting as an integrated component of a whole-building control system. Verified Energy, LLC, attempts to demonstrate the benefits of implementing wireless control in dimming applications using plug-and-play principles.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken by DOE, Verified Energy, LLC, LUMEnergi, Air Products, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and Comverge.

Project Goals

The goals of this project are to enable sophisticated control—from individual light fixtures to grouping of light fixtures—by the building control system through robust real-time two-way communications. Additionally, the project also seeks to help with the following:

Detect pending and occurred failures of lighting fixtures
Deliver maintenance alerts
React to emergency conditions
Illuminate safe routes and evacuation pathways
Reduce energy consumption to avoid grid contingencies.

Benefits and Impacts

Low-cost wireless features of the system should promote widespread adoption of advanced lighting management strategies to maximize energy savings and peak demand reduction. The system will enable building control system detection of lighting levels, associated electricity consumption, location of occupants, and the level of daylight in real-time.

Contact Information

Alan Schroeder
alan.schroeder@ee.doe.gov