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, 2024. No NLC systems will be delisted from the QPL due to this update.

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.

If you have questions about NLC5.1, please email info@designlights.org. Thank you for your input and participation in the DLC’s networked lighting controls program. We look forward to continued collaboration as we work toward a future where integrated controls are ubiquitous.