Rebate programs can be a great resource for growers looking to convert their grow lighting to LED technology by helping offset the large costs associated with lighting installation. Energy companies like to offer these programs because LEDs use less energy than traditional horticultural lighting, thus reducing the impact on the electrical grid. To help you find what programs are available, we have outlined ways for growers in the USA and Canada to identify and take advantage of programs.
For more information, please download our Rebate and Energy Incentive Guide.
DLC Listing
The DesignLights Consortium© (DLC) was created to provide reputable, independent validation of the performance, quality, and efficiency claims of lighting products. Although DLC has been around for several years, they have only recently added horticultural luminaires to their database. It is important to note that the program applies to LED lighting ONLY.
Many utilities require luminaires to be DLC-listed to qualify for energy conservation incentive programs. LED luminaires that have earned DLC certification are proven to deliver high quality and energy efficiency. The organization’s stringent standards allow growers to validate and compare the performance of horticultural lights―eliminating the need for thorough vetting and due diligence otherwise necessary when considering a lighting system.
To find a specific DLC horticultural product listing, you will need to visit the Qualified Product List database (QPL) and enter either the manufacturer or product name e.g. “P.L. Light Systems” or “TriPlane Linear” in the general search field. Alternatively, you can filter by manufacturer for a complete list of qualified products by that manufacturer.
Opting to install DLC-listed luminaires will allow for quicker and easier qualification for energy conservation incentive programs.
Energy Incentive Programs in the USA
If located in the USA, you can search the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) website. This tracks all current energy incentive programs so you can determine which energy incentive programs you may qualify for. Visit www.dsireusa.org to begin, where you will see a map that lets you select what state you are located in.
From there you need to apply any relevant filters to find the local incentive programs for which you may qualify.
Filter Examples:
Eligible Sectors> Non-Residential>Business > Agricultural
Technology>Energy Efficiency>Lighting>Lighting/LED Lighting
Energy Incentive Programs in Canada
If you are a Canadian grower, contact your local electrical provider and their energy conservation team for available programs. Some utilities allow customers to access program applications on their websites to simply complete and submit. Others may require an assessment by one of their energy auditors. Letting the utility’s conservation team know your LED lighting products have DLC and CSA certification will help in assessing your eligibility for programs.
Get started today by contacting your local sales manager!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an energy/utility rebate program?
Energy or utility rebate programs are financial incentives offered by governments, utility providers, or environmental agencies that returns a portion of your money when you purchase or install energy-efficient products, equipment, or upgrades. In CEA and horticulture, energy rebate programs are typically available for upgrading LED lighting, ventilation, or controls and timers.
How do I find utility rebate programs for my region?
If located in the USA, you can search the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) website. If you are a Canadian grower, contact your local electrical provider and their energy conservation team for available programs. You can also contact your P.L. Light Systems regional sales manager for support and more information on rebate programs in your area.
How do I apply for energy rebate programs?
In most cases, pre-approval is required by the program implementor, where the customer must apply for and receive approval on their project, prior to certain project milestones. This is to confirm the project’s eligibility, evaluate rebate metrics and establish the potential rebate amount. Application processes and requirements vary amongst regions and programs. Check with your regional utility to confirm the specific requirements and application process for their program. If you are looking for support on rebate programs, P.L. Light Systems can assist with your calculations, applications, and supplying necessary paperwork.
Which products qualify for energy rebate programs?
There will be certain standards and/or metrics the utility company will look for when deciding if the LED luminaires qualify for the rebate (individual utility company’s standards will vary). Some qualifying data your provider may require includes current DLC listing, PAR light output of the luminaires, efficacy of the luminaire, the duration of the product warranty, and potential kWh savings as a result of the upgrade. Many utilities require that luminaires be DLC listed to qualify for energy conservation incentive programs.
Why should I apply for utility rebate programs?
Rebate programs can help offset installation, product, and labour costs. What a program may cover is subject to its own terms.
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