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Energy Code 2020: start by properly zoning the lighting

2020 Energy Code: Properly Zoning Lighting Controls | Speclite In the Speclite Sphere Codes and Regulations 2020 Energy Code: Start by Properly Zoning the Lighting Before selecting sensors and automation, determine which zones will be controlled, by what, and from where. Part 1 of 6Reading time: about 7 minutesFor contractors, electricians, and designers On a lighting project, automation often gets all the attention: motion sensors, photocontrols, dimming, and programmed schedules. Yet the first decision is much more fundamental: how will the lighting be divided into zones and controlled? When this question is settled too late, a simple decision on the plans can turn into circuit changes, control relocations, or reprogramming on site. Proper zoning from the design stage helps create an installation that is clearer, easier to implement, and better prepared for energy-saving strategies. The right sequence: identify the space type, define the controlled areas, locate the manual controls, coordinate the circuits, then select the automation. A requirement now in force in Quebec The update to Chapter I.1, Building Energy Efficiency, of the Quebec Construction Code came into force on July 13, 2024. It adopts the 2020 National Energy Code for Buildings, as amended for Quebec. Following the transition period, any building whose construction began after January 12, 2025, must comply with this version. The requirements apply in particular to new construction and additions to commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings. Certain categories of residential buildings are also covered. According to the overview published by the RBQ, renovation, maintenance, and repair work is generally not subject to this chapter. Four decisions to make before laying out the circuits 1 Identify the space type Open office, warehouse, workshop, corridor, meeting room, or sales area: the actual use determines which controls apply. 2 Measure the controlled area The area of the space determines the maximum size of the areas that each manual control can serve. 3 Group the luminaires The boundaries shown on the plans must match the luminaires and circuits that will operate together on site. 4 Locate the controls The control must be readily accessible and allow the occupant to see the lighting it controls, subject to the applicable exceptions. Area limits to keep in mind Article 4.2.2.1 of the 2020 NECB, as amended, requires at least one manual control device for each space type. This control must be capable of controlling all lighting within the area concerned. ≤ 250 m²per controlled area when the entire space is 1,000 m² or less ≤ 1,000 m²per controlled area when the entire space is more than 1,000 m² Controls should normally be located in an accessible place from which occupants can see the lighting they control. A control may be installed remotely for safety reasons, but it must then include an indicator light and a clear label identifying the lighting controlled. Real-world example: a 900 m² open area Consider a 30 m by 30 m commercial or industrial area. Its total area is 900 m². Since the space is 1,000 m² or less, no controlled area may exceed 250 m². 900 m² ÷ 250 m² = 3.6→ at least 4 zones Illustrative diagram: four 225 m² zones. For an actual project, boundaries should be adapted to the space’s use, partitions, circuits, access points, and occupancy schedules. Four equal zones meet the limit, but they are not automatically the best layout. In a warehouse, zones might instead follow receiving, order picking, storage aisles, and shipping. In an office, they might correspond to teams, enclosed rooms, circulation areas, and perimeter areas with natural light. What the plans should show clearly ✓ The type or use of each space ✓ The boundaries of zones Z1, Z2, Z3, etc. ✓ Controls C1, C2, C3, etc. ✓ The luminaires assigned to each zone ✓ The corresponding circuits ✓ The intended operating sequence ✓ Required sensors and photocontrols ✓ Exceptions or operational requirements Clear coordination between the designer and the construction team reduces misinterpretations during wiring and commissioning. Three mistakes that cost time on site 1Defining zones after the circuits The circuits may then need to be split or reorganized, increasing rework and complicating coordination. 2Dividing zones based on floor area alone The layout must also account for actual use, traffic flow, partitions, and occupancy schedules. 3Choosing sensors before defining the sequence First, determine what turns on, at what level, and for how long. Then choose the right sensor. Next: choosing the right control strategy In Part 2, we’ll look at manual-on switching, partial automatic-on switching, bi-level control, and automatic shutoff when a space is unoccupied. Tell us about your project → View the official source → Official sources Quebec Construction Code, Chapter I.1, and amended NECB 2020 RBQ - Overview of regulations for buildings other than small residential buildings This article provides a general summary for informational purposes. Requirements, exceptions, and conditions specific to each project should be verified with the relevant professionals and authorities. SPECLITE | Expertise · Quality · AvailabilityLighting Specialist · info@speclite.ca · 1 855 533-8818