Page 216 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design
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192 ENERGY CONSERVATION
multilevel switching of outdoor lighting. Such a control strategy allows all, half, or
none of the outdoor lights to be controlled during different times of the day for different
days of the week while ensuring that the lights are turned off during the daytime.
Incidentally, this feature is quite similar to the indoor multilevel astronomical control
with the exception that this control scheme offers a less stringent offset requirement
from sunrise or sunset. Mandatory certification for this device requires the controller
to be capable of independently offsetting on-off settings for up to 120 minutes from
sunrise or sunset.
Installation requirements When using automatic time-switch control devices or
occupant sensors for automatic daylight control, the device must be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Devices also must be installed so that the
device controls only luminaries within daylit areas, which means that photosensors
must be either mounted on the ceiling or installed in locations that are accessible only
to authorized personnel so that they can maintain adequate illumination in the area.
Certified ballasts and luminaries All fluorescent lamp ballasts and luminaries
are regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations certified by the CEC and are
listed in the efficiency database of these regulations.
Area controls The best way to minimize energy waste and increase efficiency is to
turn off the lights when they are not in use. All lights must have switching or controls
to allow them to be turned off when not needed.
Room switching It is mandatory to provide lighting controls for each area enclosed
by ceiling-height partitions, which means that each room must have its own switches.
Ganged switching of several rooms at once is not permitted. A switch may be operated
manually or automatically or controlled by a central-zone lighting or occupant-sensing
system that meets the mandatory measure requirements.
Accessibility It is mandatory to locate all switching devices in locations where
personnel can see them when entering or leaving an area. In situations when the
switching device cannot be located within view of the lights or area, the switch position
and states must be annunciated or indicated on a central lighting panel.
Security or Emergency Lights Such lights within areas required to be lit contin-
uously or for emergency egress are exempt from the switching requirements.
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However, the lighting level is limited to a maximum of 0.5 W/ft along the path of
egress. Security or emergency egress lights must be controlled by switches accessible
only to authorized personnel.
Public areas In public areas, such as building lobbies and concourses, switches are
usually installed in areas accessible only to authorized personnel.