LUNA Program: Transforming Outdoor Lighting Efficiency and Distribution

The DesignLights Consortium (DLC) has received recognition for its efforts to promote energy efficiency and reduce light pollution in the lighting industry through the Luna Program. Initially, the DLC focused on encouraging the use of LED lighting and expanding its market use. Over time, the mission expanded to include developing guidelines for improving light quality, energy efficiency, and proper light distribution. Their work now covers networked lighting controls and integrated building systems.

DLC’s Role in Industry Standards

In a July 2024 article, DLC program director Liesel Whitney-Schulte discussed how the DLC helps to create and apply industry standards. DLC relies on these standards to ensure LED lighting is consistently tested and evaluated. Whitney-Schulte highlighted that DLC also contributes to the creation of new standards to support their vision of a net-zero future, where lighting systems promote energy savings, decarbonization, and environmental sustainability.

Government Recognition and Requirements

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), which manages federal public buildings, recognizes DLC’s contributions. The GSA has incorporated DLC’s LUNA (Light Usage at Night) program into its 2024 P100 Facilities Standards. These standards require that outdoor lighting in government buildings meet Luna Program guidelines, in addition to previous energy efficiency requirements. LUNA ensures outdoor lighting is used only where and when necessary, reducing both energy consumption and light pollution.

LUNA Program’s Impact

The LUNA program sets technical requirements for outdoor lighting products, which are included in the DLC’s Qualified Products List (QPL). These products must meet standards for energy efficiency and light pollution reduction. Key features of LUNA-qualified products include lower levels of blue light, reduced uplight, shielding, and controllability.

DLC’s CEO, Tina Halfpenny, praised the GSA’s adoption of LUNA requirements. Stating that the program helps public facilities use outdoor lighting efficiently while minimizing environmental impact.

Recent Study Findings on the LUNA Program

In the summer of 2024, the DLC, in collaboration with VH Lighting Services and Lighting Research Solutions, conducted a study comparing two types of lighting. Those that meet only energy efficiency standards and those that also meet Luna Program’s light pollution guidelines. The study, using a high school parking lot and a main street in Fort Collins, Colorado, found that:

Reducing light levels and using fixtures with lower color temperatures in the parking lot reduced light pollution.
This approach also saved more energy and lowered costs compared to focusing solely on energy efficiency.
In the street application, the team similarly reduced light pollution, though energy savings varied based on the type of fixture selected.

The DLC’s LUNA program plays a key role in setting lighting standards that balance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. With recognition from federal agencies like the GSA, LUNA’s guidelines are helping shape the future of outdoor lighting by minimizing light pollution and promoting smarter energy use.

EcoCentricNow Advocates for prioritizing Environmental Sustainability

EcoCentricNow LLC (ECN) distributes interior and exterior LED property lighting, handheld lighting, and an assortment of batteries. ECN’s mission is to promote environmental stewardship by distributing well-designed, long-lasting, energy-efficient LED lighting products and supplies that foster ecological sustainability and human well-being.

References

DARK SKIES | LUNA program seeks to advance acceptance of targeted outdoor lighting usage, Carrie Meadows

Addressing Light Pollution Alongside Energy Savings