Standard Savings Estimation Protocol for Lighting Measures
Submitted to
REGIONAL TECHNICAL FORUM (RTF)
Submitted by
ERS
120 Water Street, Suite 350
North Andover, MA 01845-2648
Approved by RTF on
DRAFT
Version 8.3.2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PURPOSE............................................................................................................ 1
2. SUNSET CRITERIA ................................................................................................. 1
3. DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS ..................................................................................... 1
4. ELIGIBLE MEASURES .............................................................................................. 3
5. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF PRACTITIONER ................................................... 4
6. DATA COLLECTION REQUIRMENTS ............................................................................ 4
6.1. Pre-Conditions Baseline System Power ............................................................................. 5
6.2. Current Practice Baseline System Power ........................................................................... 5
6.3. Efficient Condition Lighting System Power ........................................................................ 6
6.4. Operating Hours ................................................................................................................. 7
6.5. Lighting Control Savings ..................................................................................................... 8
6.6. HVAC Interactive Effects .................................................................................................... 8
6.7. Provisional Data Collection Requirements ........................................................................ 9
6.7.1. Energy Estimation Using Provisional Data ........................................................................ 10
7. SAVINGS ESTIMATION.......................................................................................... 10
7.1. Savings Algorithms -Pre-Conditions Baseline .................................................................. 11
7.2. Savings Algorithms - Current Practice Baseline ............................................................... 12
8. DELIVERY VERIFICATION ....................................................................................... 12
9. SAMPLING PROCEDURE ........................................................................................ 13
10. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PROTOCOLS AND GUIDELINES ............................................. 14
11. ESTIMATE OF TYPICAL COST ................................................................................ 14
12. SAVINGS CALCULATOR USERS GUIDE ..................................................................... 16
12.1. Pre-Conditions Installations ........................................................................................... 16
12.2. Current Practice Installations......................................................................................... 19
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1. PURPOSE
This protocol establishes the methods for estimating the energy savings of nonresidential lighting
systems efficiency measures where lighting fixtures have been retrofitted or replaced, or energy
efficient fixtures have been installed, and new controls applied1. The protocol specifies the minimum
acceptable data collection required for reliable estimates of energy savings. It also describes the
methods by which those data are used to estimate savings. Energy savings are estimated using the
Lighting Standard Protocol Savings Calculator (Protocol Calculator). Or, savings may be estimated by
using a savings calculator that estimates energy savings using the algorithms and default values
provided in the Protocol Calculator.
This protocol will have provisional status until sufficient data have been collected to demonstrate the
reliability of the estimated energy savings. Programs that use this protocol provide data collected from a
sample of program sites to the Regional Technical Forum (RTF) so that the data can be used to complete
the development of the protocol. Provisional data collection requirements in this protocol pertain
specifically to hours of operation of lighting systems and controls impacts on load or hours of operation.
2. SUNSET CRITERIA
This protocol has been approved for use until September 30, 2015, or until sufficient regional data has
been collected to allow the protocol to be modified using the simplest reliable methods and adopted by
the RTF without provisional data requirements.
3. DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS
as-built system power – The connected load of the newly installed efficient-condition fixtures or the
retrofitted fixtures.
baseline system power, current practice – Categories of measures that would typically require current
practice baseline include but are not limited to the following:

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Energy efficiency features, including lighting systems and controls, associated with entirely new
buildings where the baseline power is the prevailing construction code for lighting power density,
technology and controls.
Estimation and documentation of the cost and non-energy benefits of non-residential lighting efficiency measure installation,
using this protocol, should follow the RTF Guidelines for the development and maintenance of Incremental measure costs and
benefits estimates (March 2012). Under this protocol, the estimation and documentation of useful life of the lighting system
or components, where the estimated useful life varies by system or fixture type, should conform to the RTF Guidelines for the
development and maintenance of measure lifetimes (May 2012).
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
Energy efficiency features, including lighting systems and controls, implemented as part of major
renovation of existing buildings where the baseline power is subject to requirements of the
prevailing construction code for lighting power density or allowances, technology and controls.
baseline power, pre-conditions baseline - is appropriate where replaced lighting equipment has
remaining useful life and does not trigger compliance with prevailing construction codes. The baseline is
defined by existing conditions found at the site, or the following as applicable:
For lighting systems where the existing lamp and ballast type are determined to be obsolete, the preconditions baseline should be based on either the minimally code-compliant fixture with an equivalent
efficacy or light output or the otherwise applicable jurisdiction code or performance requirements (e.g.,
FEMP, municipal code). For example, the default power for an existing fixture with 40 W T12 lamps may
be set equal to the power of a fixture with 34 W T12 code-compliant lamps or 32 W T8 code-compliant
lamps.
lighting controls – Mechanisms installed on lighting systems that dim or turn fixtures off through the
use of occupancy sensors, photocells, or timers.
Lighting controls can affect the operating hours (and system power) of lighting systems. They save
energy by either reducing the power draw of a system or by reducing the operating hours. Dimming
systems and bi-level controls reduce the power to the system either by reducing the power to all the
fixtures or by switching off a portion of the lamps/fixtures of the system. Occupancy sensors, timers,
and photocell controls reduce the operating hours of a lighting system in response to occupancy, time
of day, or presence of sunlight. Controls can be used in combination to effectively control the lighting
for a single use area. Advanced lighting controls provide building occupants with individual lighting
control by tuning ballasts to a lower ballast factor. They use wireless remote light switches or wireless
photocells for daylight harvesting. They also provide the ability to easily reconfigure control settings to
meet changing occupancy or space needs, can be accessed remotely, track energy savings, and enable
other types of advanced controls strategies (e.g., automated demand response) to be easily deployed.
efficient condition - The as-built energy efficient specifications of the fixtures, lamps, ballasts, lamps
with integrated drivers and/or controls, operating schedule and sequence of controls are those
observed after measure installation and/or appropriate commissioning is complete.
exterior lighting – Lighting installations on building facades or building grounds, including pathways,
streets, and parking lots.
HVAC interactive effects – The impact of the installation of high efficiency lighting systems on a
building’s heating and cooling systems. Energy efficient lighting measures reduce the internal heat load
of conditioned spaces. The reduction in heat load reduces the cooling energy consumption and
increases the heating energy consumption. How much depends upon many factors, including the
location of the lighting, lighting operating hours, HVAC equipment/system type, building envelope, and
climatic conditions. Based on various studies (primarily using building energy simulation software) the
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overall energy savings achieved by a lighting measure may be significantly (0%-40%) reduced or
increased due to the heating and cooling interactions.
lighting power density (LPD) – Total lighting watts per square foot of floor area. LPD does not include
lighting exempted by code, such as emergency lighting. LPD is expressed in watts per square foot.
lighting power allowance (LPA) – Maximum LPD allowed by code for a given use type. LPA is typically
expressed in watts per square foot, but may be expressed in other units (e.g., watts per lineal feet) for
exterior lighting.
obsolete equipment - includes fixtures, ballasts, fixture components or controls equipment that has
failed catastrophically, or

equipment is old and due to increasing frequency and difficulty of repairs and maintenance, or
compatible components are unavailable, the customer has firm plans to replace the equipment, or

equipment must be replaced due to regulatory requirements, such as those promulgated by the U.S.
Department of Energy.
operating hours – The equivalent full-load hours per year that a lighting system is on for a given use
area. For a single-use space with simple on/off controls, it is equal to the total hours per year that the
lights are on. For a lighting system serving a variety of end use areas or containing multiple control
points, it represents the weighted average of the combined operating hours. For fixtures with variable
wattage, such as dimming or bi-level switching, it is equal to the fixture annual energy use divided by the
fixture rated kW.
lighting system- Combinations of lighting fixtures, ballasts, lamps, reflectors, diffusers, integrated driver
lamps, switching, dimming, timer, photocells or other controls comprise lighting systems that can have
energy use defined by power capacity and hours of operation and any effect that controls have on
capacity or hours of operation.
fixture retrofit –lamp and ballast or a combination of lamp and ballast and reflector or lens replacement
within an existing light fixture
4. ELIGIBLE MEASURES
Use of this protocol is limited to nonresidential lighting installations. Eligible measures include:

Interior lighting fixture retrofits or fixture replacements, including lamp and ballast replacement,
fixture de-lamping and appropriate ballast re-wiring, and fixtures/lamps with integrated drivers.

Exterior lighting fixture retrofits or fixture replacements, including lamp and ballast replacement
and fixture de-lamping with appropriate ballast re-wiring, and fixtures/lamps with integrated
drivers.

New fixtures and ballasts, and fixture/lamps with integrated drivers installed in newly constructed or
renovated buildings.
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
Lighting control installations including re-wiring for switching or control variation for individual
fixtures groups of fixtures or whole building automated control.
5. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF PRACTITIONER
The practitioner responsible for entering data into a savings calculator to develop project-specific
energy savings must possess the following:

Understanding of the appropriate range of key variables and values required to accurately input
lighting system data used to calculate lighting energy savings.

Knowledge of data elements necessary for calculating energy savings.
The practitioner responsible for data collection must be able to successfully perform the following tasks:

Identify, by inspection, the different lighting, lamp, and ballast types and control configurations and
types.

Correctly interpret and record the site-specific data required to estimate energy savings using a
savings calculator.

Conduct all field work according to appropriate safety procedures for work involving lighting and
electrical system audits and the measurement equipment required by this protocol.
The practitioner responsible for collecting measured data in the field must be able to:

Follow appropriate electrical safety procedures for work involving lighting circuits.

Supervise and direct a qualified electrical worker to take power measurements and install data
loggers.

Install and operate light loggers.

Analyze and interpret measured data to verify lighting system energy saving characteristics.

Access, or direct facility or contractor staff to access, lighting control systems through the control
system interface to determine control strategies and schedules.
6. DATA COLLECTION REQUIRMENTS
This section describes the data collected to determine reliable nonresidential lighting energy savings
estimates.
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6.1. Pre-Conditions Baseline System Power
The following data is collected to determine baseline system power for installations where preconditions determine the baseline:

Fixture quantity and type – For each use area, obtain the quantity and type of fixture.

Fixture lamp and ballast quantity – For each fixture, obtain the number of lamps and number of
ballasts.

Lamp type and ballast type – For each fixture, collect information about the type of lamp and
ballast. For lamps, obtain technology type, size, and rated power input. For ballasts, determine type
and ballast factor.
A default list of fixtures may be the source of the fixture data. The default list is based on actual
manufacturer data, data published by the U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (ENERGY STAR) or the Design Lights Consortium. The default list of fixtures includes, at a
minimum, the following elements to accurately describe the fixture:

Description of the fixture type – The description, or nomenclature, defines the fixture by technology,
size, and number of lamps.

Fixture power, watts/fixture

Lamp nominal wattage

Lamps per fixture

Ballast type

Ballast factor

Efficacy, lumens per watt
The Protocol Calculator provides the default list of baseline fixtures that may be used to determine
baseline system power. Alternatively, lighting fixture manufacturer data specification sheets are used to
determine baseline system power. From the specification sheets, determine the fixture’s rated power
based on the quantity and type of lamps and ballasts found in the fixture.
6.2. Current Practice Baseline System Power
Lighting system efficiency and controls projects subject to current practice baseline may require new
construction and major renovation projects to comply with local construction codes, or for the baseline
to be determined by the practitioner where current practice exceeds minimum code requirements.
Total baseline system power in code-impacted installations is calculated using the state or local building
energy code required LPA multiplied by the area of the illuminated space. For fixture replacements
where the occupancy type is unchanged, existing lighting levels are within industry standards,and the
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pre-retrofit lighting system LPD is less than the building energy code LPA, the pre-retrofit LPD is used to
establish the baseline.
Building energy codes may set maximum LPA values for exterior lighting areas, which include uncovered
parking areas, building grounds, building entrances and exits, and outdoor sales areas. They also contain
requirements for on/off operation of specific exterior lighting uses, including the use of photocells or
astronomical timers. The impact of code required controls on the hours of operation or average lighting
system power during the hours of operation are also considered part of the baseline system.
Data collected to determine baseline power for current practice installations includes:

Lighting power allowances – The LPA is determined from the applicable state or local energy
building code. A table of LPA values is provided based on whole building, space, or exterior lighting
zone type.

Use area – The area, in square feet, of the whole building or space within a building served by the
lighting system.
For fixture replacements, pre-retrofit fixture data is also collected:

Fixture quantity and type – For each use area, obtain the quantity and type of fixture.

Fixture lamp and ballast quantity – For each fixture, obtain the number of lamps and number of
ballasts.

Lamp type and ballast type – For each fixture, collect information about the type of lamp and
ballast. For lamps, obtain technology type, size, and rated power input. For ballasts, determine type
and ballast factor.
6.3. Efficient Condition Lighting System Power
The following describes the data collection for determining the efficient condition lighting system
power. The efficient conditions of the affected systems and equipment are those observed after
measure installation and/or appropriate commissioning is complete. This period is also referred to as
the post-period.
The following data is collected to determine the lighting system power:

Manufacturer data specification sheets – Obtain manufacturer data specification sheets for the
installed energy-efficient fixture, lamp, and ballast. From the specification sheets, determine the
fixture’s rated power based on the quantity and type of lamps and ballasts used in the installed
fixture

Fixture quantity – For each use area, confirm the quantity of fixtures installed.

Fixture lamp and ballast quantity – For each fixture, determine the number of lamps and ballasts
installed.
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Efficient condition fixtures, lamps, and ballasts are entered into a savings calculator. The fixture power
input is entered and is based on the rated power for the combination of lamp and ballast installed in the
fixture.
A default list of fixtures may be the source of the fixture data. The default list must be based on actual
manufacturer data, data published by the U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (ENERGY STAR) or the Design Lights Consortium. The default list of fixtures shall include the
following elements to accurately describe the fixture:

Description of the fixture type – The description, or nomenclature, defines the fixture by technology,
size, and number of lamps.

Fixture power, watts/fixture

Lamp nominal wattage

Lamps per fixture

Ballast type

Ballast factor

Efficacy, lumens per watt
6.4. Operating Hours
This section describes the data collection necessary to estimate lighting operating hours. If the data is
unavailable or incomplete, the default list of operating hours provided in the Protocol Calculator is used
to estimate operating hours.
All information collected regarding lighting and occupancy operating hours is documented as supporting
evidence for the operating hours used in the energy savings estimates.
For exterior lighting, the following data is collected:

Lighting control type – Determine the type of lighting control (time clock, photocell, manual, other,
or none).

For time clock control, obtain the lighting control schedules.

For photocell, obtain photocell type (daylight, occupancy) and control strategy.

For manual or other, obtain control strategy employed or typical lighting schedule used.
For interior lighting with automated controls:

Determine control capabilities and programmed control schedules (by controlled zone).

For photocell, obtain photocell type and control strategy

If overrides are allowed, obtain estimates of typical override uses and duration.
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For interior lighting with manual controls:

Daily and weekly occupancy schedule - To determine daily lighting operating hours, obtain the
average hours per day the building is occupied. If daily schedules vary, determine the average hours
per day for each day of the week.

Holiday schedules - Determine the number of annual holidays observed and typical holiday
occupancy schedules.

Determine whether there are seasonal variations to the weekly schedule. If so, determine the
average hours per day for each day of the week for each seasonal variation.

Occupancy schedules, typical lighting system operation, and controls schedules are verified by use
area, fixture group(s) or tenancy by interviewing one or more of the building operators with at least
one year of experience with the occupancy and use of the lighting systems.
6.5. Lighting Control Savings
The Protocol Calculator provides a default list of control savings factors by use area and control type.
The following data is collected and entered into the savings calculator to estimate control savings for
each group of controlled light fixtures:

Type of controls installed (the calculator options for control types are: occupancy, daylight sensor,
bi-level switching, dimmers or wireless on/off, advanced, or occupancy and daylight).

Use area type.
6.6. HVAC Interactive Effects
The Protocol Calculator provides a default list of HVAC interactive effects factors that are used in
estimating lighting energy savings. The default list is the Northwest Power and Conservation Council’s
factors used in most recent regional resource plan. The factors estimate HVAC interactive effects by
building type, climate zone and HVAC system type, and are based on DOE 2 thermodynamic models of
the Councils prototype non-residential buildings. The percent adjustment factors are based on the
building type and the manner in which the building space is conditioned. The following data is collected
to estimate HVAC interactive effects:

Building type

Whether the interior space being served by the lighting is heated and/or cooled

Predominant space-heating source (electric, heat pump, or gas/oil/biomass)
The alternative approach to using the Protocol Calculator’s default HVAC adjustment factor is to
estimate site-specific HVAC interactive effects through the use of an industry-standard, whole building
energy simulation software program using Typical Meteorological Year weather data for the site’s
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specific climate zone. In lieu of individual site modeling, program operators may use HVAC adjustment
factors modeled by building type for climate zones specific to their service territory.
6.7. Provisional Data Collection Requirements
This protocol will have provisional status until sufficient data has been collected to demonstrate the
reliability of the estimated lighting energy savings. Provisional data collection requirements are specific
to lighting system hours of operation and controls impacts on load or hours of operation. Provisional
data is to be collected at all sites where this protocol is applied. Programs that use this protocol provide
the data collected to the RTF so that it can be used to complete the development of the protocol.
Sampling within a site for provisional data collection is described in Section 9 of this protocol.
Provisional data collection requirements consist of collecting data to estimate energy savings and
lighting operating hours. Data is collected using either one or both of the following methods:
1. Using light loggers – Light loggers are used to trend lighting operating hours. They record on/off
status by sensing fixture light levels. A sample of light fixtures, or controlled fixtures, that are
representative of the space-use types within the building are monitored (see Section 10 for site
sampling techniques). The as-built lighting system is monitored for a minimum of 2-4 weeks;
however longer monitoring periods may be required to capture seasonal variations. For control
measures2, monitoring periods should be a minimum of one month.. The monitored data is then
downloaded into logger software or spreadsheets for analysis.
2. Using current loggers – Current loggers are used to trend lighting time of use and power
consumption over time. A sample of light fixtures, or controlled fixtures, that are representative of
the space use types within the building are monitored at the circuit level. Spot power
measurements using true power instrumentation are taken to determine amperage and
connected kW of the monitored fixtures. Current loggers are installed to monitor amperage at the
circuit level. Sampling frequencies are typically no less than 1 minute and no greater than 5
minutes. Light fixtures are monitored for a minimum of four weeks; however longer monitoring
periods may be required to capture seasonal or scheduling variations where monthly seasonal
hours of operation variation is determined to be greater that 20% from one month to another
month. In that case, four weeks of monitoring for each month type shall be completed and data
annualized. For control measures, monitoring periods should be a minimum of one month. The
monitored data is then downloaded into spreadsheets for analysis. Where daylighting dimming
control systems are employed, lighting loggers are used to collect space lighting levels.
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For monitoring dimming controls or dimmable light fixtures, light loggers should be used in conjunction with current loggers.
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6.7.1. Energy Estimation Using Provisional Data
There are a number of acceptable approaches for using measured data to estimate lighting energy use,
savings, operating hours, and/or control measure savings. The most appropriate approach is often
dictated by the type of retrofit, sampling strategy, and other site-specific considerations. The following
approach is provided as a guideline for using measured data to estimate energy savings.
To estimated operating hours, the logger data for the monitored period is averaged to develop hourly
weekday and weekend percent time-on profiles for each space type. The total wattage for each space
type is then multiplied by the percent time-on profile to develop an 8,760 hours load profile. The load
profile is adjusted, as necessary, for seasonal occupancy variations. Hourly energy use is summed to
estimate energy use for either baseline type and efficient condition. Annual savings is the difference
between the annual energy usage of the baseline and efficient condition. To determine operating hours,
the annual energy use is divided by the total wattage.
To estimate control savings, logger data (amperage) for the monitoring period is used to develop hourly
weekday and weekend percent time-on profiles for the controlled fixtures. If both controls and energy
efficient lamps and ballasts were installed, three use profiles are created: one for either the current
practice or pre-conditions baseline, one for efficient lighting system condition with controls disabled,
and one with the controls enabled.
Where daylighting dimming control systems are employed, the hourly weekday and weekend load
profiles are determined using a combination of light level logger data and current logger data. The
measure data over the sample period is calibrated with the natural lighting conditions for the same
period of time. Natural lighting data is obtained either from a weather file or through measurements
taken on site. The calibrated hourly weekday and weekend profiles are then extrapolated to an annual
load profile which account for variations in natural lighting availability and occupancy variations.
7. SAVINGS ESTIMATION
Lighting system energy savings are estimated using the Protocol Calculator. Or, savings may be
estimated by using a savings calculator that estimates energy savings using the algorithms and default
values provided in the Protocol Calculator.
Lighting system data is collected and entered into the savings calculator. Lighting fixtures are grouped
and entered into the calculator based on use area and control type. For each group of fixtures entered,
the appropriate use area (building type, space type) and HVAC type are selected. Operating hours are
manually entered. If not available, the savings estimate is based on the default operating hours for the
building type.
The baseline fixture data is then entered into the calculator. For pre-condition baseline, the fixture data
is either selected from the default list of fixture data or the fixture description and wattage is manually
entered. The quantity of fixtures is entered and, if applicable, the type of existing control is entered. For
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current practice baseline, the code LPA is entered. For fixture replacements, both the code LPA and
existing fixture data are entered.
For the as-built lighting system, the fixture description, quantity, and wattage are entered into the
calculator. For control measures, the control type is selected from the default list.
Savings, measure life and cost estimates should be consistent with the RTF Guidelines for Measure Cost
and Benefits (3/19/2012) and RTF Guidelines for the Development and Maintenance of Measure
Lifetimes (6/01/2012) http://www.nwcouncil.org/energy/rtf/measures/support/Default.asp)
For estimation of the duration of savings of the efficient condition, where the pre-existing condition
baseline applies, the remaining useful life of the efficient condition should be determined using the
estimated lifetime for both the new and existing components.
7.1. Savings Algorithms -Pre-Conditions Baseline
The following formula is used by Protocol Calculator to determine fixture power:
Wattage𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒
x Quantity
1000
Wattage𝑒𝑒
=
x Quantity
1000
kW𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 =
kW𝑒𝑒
The following formula is used to adjust operating hours for control measures:
𝑂𝐻𝑐 = 𝑂𝐻 − (OH × OHR)
The following formula is used to calculate fixture baseline energy use:
kWh𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 = kW𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 × OH × HVACf
The following formula is used to calculate as-built fixture energy use:
kWh𝑒𝑒 = kW𝑒𝑒 × OHc × HVACf
The following formula is used to calculate fixture annual energy savings:
kWh = kWhbase − kWhee
where,
Wattagebase = Pre-retrofit fixture rated power
Wattageee = As-built fixture rated power
Quantity
= Number of fixtures
OH
= Operating hours per year
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OHc
= Operating hours per year, adjusted for as-built control measures
OHR
= Control operating hour percent reduction factor
HVACf
= HVAC interaction factor
7.2. Savings Algorithms - Current Practice Baseline
The following formulas are used by the Protocol Calculator to determine fixture power:
kW𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛⁡
kW𝑒𝑒 =
kW𝑒𝑒 =
LPD ee
1000
LPA base
Wattage𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒
× Area ,
x Quantity
1000
1000
× Area
Wattage𝑒𝑒
x Quantity
1000
The following formula is used to adjust operating hours for control measures:
𝑂𝐻𝑐 = 𝑂𝐻 − (OH × OHR)
The following formula is used to calculate fixture baseline energy use:
kWh𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 = kW𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 × OH × HVACf
The following formula is used to calculate as-built fixture energy use:
kWh𝑒𝑒 = kW𝑒𝑒 × OHc × HVACf
The following formula is used to calculate fixture annual energy savings:
kWh = kWhbase − kWhee
where,
LPDee
= Lighting power density of the energy-efficient lighting fixture
LPAbase
= Lighting power allowance as required by code
Area
= Total floor area, in square feet, of the space use area. For exterior lighting, the area
that is designated on building plans to be illuminated.
8. DELIVERY VERIFICATION
The following data verification and delivery steps are taken by the program operator to ensure the
lighting measures operate as intended and are capable of achieving energy savings:
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
All large projects (over 100,000 kWh) should be pre- and post-inspected. For smaller projects, a
sample of projects should be selected for pre- and/or post-inspection.

For new construction and major renovation projects (current practice baseline), the building area(s)
used in a savings calculator should be verified against building plans or building construction
documentation.

The appropriateness of the building and space type used in a savings calculator should be verified.
Verification methods include interviewing lighting contractors or facility personnel, reviewing
building plans, reviewing building energy code compliance documentation, or conducting site visits.

Fixture descriptions and power capacity used in a savings calculator should be verified by
comparison to manufacturer’s specifications sheets. If the default fixture data is entered in the
calculator, verify the data accurately represents the pre-retrofit fixtures.

Reported operating hours should be checked for reasonableness. As part of the operating hour
validation, compare reported operating hours against the savings calculator default values – if the
operating hours differ by more than 10%, then facility operators should be re-interviewed to
confirm the reported operating hours.

The HVAC description entered in the savings calculator should be verified during any pre- or postproject inspections.

Efficient condition lighting systems should be operated a minimum of 100 hours before any field
measurements are taken. The intent is to ensure the lighting systems have been fully commissioned
and normal occupancy patterns have resumed before any field measurement data is collected.

Collect any completed control commissioning reports or start-up tests. The reports can be used to
verify that the control and control sensor application are appropriate, commissioning was
completed, and that any issues discovered during testing have been resolved.

For daylighting controls, obtain documentation detailing system design ( such as window-to-floor or
skylight-to-floor area ratios)
9. SAMPLING PROCEDURE
This section describes site sampling procedures for collecting provisional data. Program impact
evaluation and sampling procedures are not defined in this protocol. Refer to the RTF (4/22/2012) draft,
Appendix E Program Impact Evaluation Protocol for program sample selection
http://www.nwcouncil.org/energy/rtf/subcommittees/customprotocol/meetings.htm
Sampling may be used to collect provisional data at a site where this protocol is applied. Fixture sample
sizes for a given site should be selected to achieve a relative precision of 20% at the 90% confidence
level. Fixtures should be sampled so that all affected fixture types and a variety of space types (or usage
profiles) are represented. The sample design (random, stratified ratio estimation) should ensure that the
fixtures (or controls) representing the majority of the estimated energy savings are included in the
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sample. Sampling units should be based on last point of control or based on use area types. This allows
fixtures to be grouped and measured at a point with common operating characteristics. Section 10
provides references to relevant protocols and guidelines for industry standard sampling procedures.
.
10. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PROTOCOLS AND GUIDELINES
The following industry guidelines are applicable to instrumentation, power measurement, and sampling:
Draft RTF Guidelines for RTF Savings Estimation Methods, Appendix E – Program Impact Evaluation
Protocols (6/19/12) http://www.nwcouncil.org/energy/rtf/meetings/2012/06/
Standard Measurement and Verification Plan for Lighting Retrofit Projects for Buildings and Building
Sites - 2011, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. See Section 2.4 for power measurements at the
circuit level.
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol - 2012, Efficiency Valuation
Organization.
The California Evaluation Framework - 2004, California Public Utilities Commission.
Sampling Reference Guide, BPA. See sampling of fixtures for on/off measurement.
RTF Guidelines for the Development and Maintenance of Measure Lifetimes
http://www.nwcouncil.org/energy/rtf/measures/support/Default.asp
11. ESTIMATE OF TYPICAL COST
The following tables present the typical cost of applying this protocol to a lighting retrofit project. The
first table is for a 300 fixture retrofit with no control measures, and the second table is for a 1,000
fixture retrofit with control measures.
Table 12-1
300 Fixture Retrofit Project
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Item
Equipment
Power meters
Current loggers
Light loggers
Labor
Practitioner
Travel
Scheduling, planning
Interviews
Install/remove light loggers
Verify counts, types
Analysis & report
Qualified electrical worker
Travel
Power measurement
Total
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Quantity
$/hour
Rental
Total Cost
1
100
15
50
$100
$0
$750
2
2
2
2
4
10
110
110
110
110
110
110
$220
$220
$220
$220
$440
$1,100
1
1
90
90
$90
$90
$3,450
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Table 12-2
1,000 Fixture Retrofit Project with Control Measures
Item
Equipment
Power meters
Current loggers
Light loggers
Labor
Practitioner
Travel
Scheduling, planning
Interviews
Install/remove light loggers
Verify counts, types
Analysis & report
Qualified electrical worker
Travel
Install/remove loggers
Sport measurement
Total
Quantity
$/hour
1
20
5
Rental
100
50
50
Total Cost
$100
$1,000
$250
4
5
2
4
6
16
110
110
110
110
110
110
$440
$550
$220
$440
$660
$1,760
2
14
2
90
90
90
$180
$1,260
$180
$7,040
12. SAVINGS CALCULATOR USERS GUIDE
This section describes the data input for the nonresidential lighting protocol energy savings calculator.
The calculator is a Microsoft Excel 2010 spreadsheet consisting of eight tabs. The first tab contains an
input table for estimating energy savings using a pre-conditions baseline. The second and third tabs
provide input tables, both for estimating energy savings using a current practice baseline. The fourth tab
contains the default values (look-up tables) used for operating hours, control savings factors, and HVAC
interactive effects factors. The fifth tab provides a worksheet for estimating operating hours. The sixth
tab contains the baseline fixture table. The seventh tab shows the formulas used for estimating energy
savings and the last tab provides tables used to control selections provided by the spreadsheet’s drop
down lists.
12.1. Pre-Conditions Installations
The pre-conditions tab contains an Excel table for either selecting a default fixture or entering lighting
fixture data where a default value of that exact fixture, lamp and ballast combination is not provided.
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The following table describes the table inputs and several of the table look-up or calculated values.
Table 13-1
Pre-Conditions Baseline Table
Row Title
Input Description
Notes
ID#
Data record number
Optional input. Any format of
data is acceptable.
Building type
Building type, used for
determining default operating
hours and HVAC IE effect
User selected. Select the most
appropriate description from the
drop-down list.
Space type
Building space use type, used for
determining control savings
User selected. Select the most
appropriate description from the
drop-down list.
HVAC type
Describes the combination of
heating and cooling equipment
used to condition the space
illuminated by lighting
User selected. Nine different
combinations of heating and
cooling sources are available in
the drop-down list.
Operating hours - manual input
Lighting operating hours directly
input by the user
Optional user input. If no value is
entered, the default operating
hours are used to estimate
energy use and savings
Operating hours - default
Default operating hours by
building type
Look-up value. Remains blank if
operating hours are directly
entered.
Baseline lighting fixture
category
Fixture type category
User selected. Required if using
default fixture table
Baseline Lighting fixture subcategory
Fixture type sub-category, based
on category type selected
User selected. Required if using
default fixture table
Baseline Lamp wattage
Available lamp wattages for the
selected fixture type
User selected. Required if using
default fixture table
Baseline Lamp quantity
Number of lamps in the baseline
fixture
User selected. Required if using
default fixture table
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Row Title
Input Description
Notes
Baseline fixture description (MI)
Description of lighting fixture,
lamp, and ballast
User input. Allows user to
manually input lighting fixtures.
Should be left blank if default
fixture table is used
Baseline fixture wattage (MI)
Fixture rated wattage
User input. Allows user to
manually input lighting fixture
wattage. Should be left blank if
default fixture table is used
Baseline quantity
Number of fixtures
User input
Baseline fixture wattage
Fixture rated wattage
Calculated value used in energy
savings calculations. From
default fixture table for selected
fixture or set equal to manual
input fixture wattage
Baseline control type
May be used to account for
baseline controls, such as bilevel switching
Optional, user selected. Select
the most appropriate control
type or leave blank if manually
controlled.
Baseline op hr % reduction
Default value, based on space
and control type
Look-up value
Baseline adjusted operating
hours (OH)
Operating hours, adjusted by the
op hr % reduction factor
Calculated value. The operating
hours are used for estimating
baseline energy use.
As-built fixture lamp & ballast
description
Description of lighting fixture;
may be derived from user
default list of fixtures
User input. The description
defines the fixture by
technology, size, and number of
lamps.
As-built quantity
Number of fixtures
User input. Should match
baseline quantities unless
fixtures removed or added.
As-built wattage
Fixture rated or connected
User input
wattage; may be taken from user
default list of fixtures.
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Row Title
Input Description
Notes
As-built control type
New control measure installed
Optional, user selected. Select
the most appropriate control
type or leave blank.
As-built op hr % reduction
(OHR)
Default value, based on space
and control type
Look-up value
Operating hours (OHc)
Operating hours, adjusted by the
op hr % reduction factor
Calculated value. The operating
hours are used for estimating asbuilt energy use.
12.2. Current Practice Installations
Energy savings from code impacted installations requiring a current practices baseline can be calculated
in two ways: either from a pre-determined LPD calculation for the as-built lighting system or by entering
fixture quantities and type for each building space use type. The current practice baseline v1 tab is
designed for new construction projects where the as-built lighting system LPD has been pre-calculated.
The current practice baseline v2 tab is designed for either new construction or major renovation
projects and allows for entering fixture types and quantities for both baseline and as-built lighting
systems.
The following tables describe the key table inputs for code impacted installations:
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Table 13-1
Current Practice Baseline (V1 and V2) Table
Row Title
Input Description
Notes
Area
Building or space-use type area
(in square feet) served or
illuminated by the fixture
User input
Code LPA (W/sq ft)
Watts per square foot for the
baseline lighting system.
Determined from applicable
code lighting power allowances
User input, code LPA value. For
exterior lighting, code
requirements may be expressed
in different units, such as watts
per lineal feet.
LPDee (W/sq ft)
Watts per square foot for the asbuilt lighting system
User input. Pre-calculated by
user, or taken from energy code
compliance calculations.
Calculated value in V2 table.
Row Title
Input Description
Notes
LPD calc (W/ Sq Ft)
Watts per square foot of preretrofit lighting fixtures
Calculated value, based on
fixture type and space area
Code LPA (W/ Sq Ft)
The applicable building code
lighting power allowance
User input, code LPA value
LPD (W/Sq Ft)
Baseline lighting power density
used in energy savings estimates
Calculated value, equal to the
lesser of the LPA calc or Code
LPA values
Table 13-2
Current Practice Baseline - V2 Table
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