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NC-v4 EQc6:Interior lighting

EQ CREDIT: INTERIOR LIGHTING

Hi Every one

I’m looking for some support and expert opinions regarding LEED requirements.
“For all regularly occupied spaces, use light fixtures with a luminance of less than 2,500 cd/m² between 45 and 90 degrees from nadir. Exceptions include wallwash fixtures properly aimed at walls, as specified by manufacturer’s data, indirect uplighting fixtures (provided there is no view down into these uplights from a regularly occupied space above), and other specific applications (e.g. adjustable fixtures).”

Based on my research, this luminance limit falls under LEED v4 – EQ Credit: Interior Lighting (Glare Control Requirements) and is applicable to project types such as NC, Schools, Data Centers, Warehouses & Distribution Centers, and Hospitality.

However, in real-world Warehouse / Factory projects, I am wondering how luminaires such as Highbay or LED waterproof battens can realistically comply with this requirement (luminance < 2,500 cd/m² between 45–90° from nadir).

Thank you very much

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Wed, 01/07/2026 - 20:03

Ha Van LamYou should use the 4.1 version of the credit, which you can do even if the project is registered as a 4.0 project.https://www.usgbc.org/credits/new-construction-schools-new-construction-retail-new-construction-data-centers-new-2?return=/credits/New%20Construction/v4.1/Indoor%20environmental%20qualityThe 2500 cd/m2 was a mistake in LEED 4.0 and is basically impossible to comply with. The limit is 7000 cd/m2 in LEED 4.1

Wed, 01/07/2026 - 20:27

You may also wish to review the v4.1 criteria as it provides the following caveat for select warehouse spaces.  This may help if you can demonstrate these project conditions. (please see page 256 of the July 2023 v.1 Reference Guide): 
  • Exclude shipping and receiving, warehouse, and distribution centers where projects need to meet IES recommended foot-candles while maintaining clearance for forklifts and other tall equipment.  
Beyond this, our team has recognized that typical industrial "shop lights" will not comply with glare control if they have "bat-wing" shields on only the two long parallel sides, however, lensed fixtures with end caps can meet the requirements.  It takes some study and careful lighting design.  Best of luck. 

Thu, 01/08/2026 - 03:34

Thank you @Glenn Heinmiller However, in this case, the project’s lighting consultant is still strictly requiring compliance with LEED v4, rather than LEED v4.1.At this stage, I am seeking technical justification and expert arguments to support the position that the luminance control requirement of < 2,500 cd/m² (between 45–90° from nadir) is not appropriate or not practically applicable to Highbay luminaires in industrial warehouse or factory environments.

Thu, 01/08/2026 - 04:01

Hi Denise BevilaquaCould you please share the guideline file for download ?
In addition, I would like to clarify my understanding that the LEED requirement for luminance < 2500 cd/m² at viewing angles between 45° and 90° is evaluated based on the intrinsic optical characteristics of the luminaire (as defined in the .IES file), regardless of the mounting height.
Kindly confirm whether this interpretation is correct

Mon, 01/12/2026 - 16:10

Philipp,   Depending upon your project's registration date, you will be obligated to comply with the latest v4.1 addenda (should you choose to substitute your Interior Lighting credit to v4.1).  The most recent Guides can be found at this link - scroll to the bottom : https://www.usgbc.org/leed/v41Regarding your note about luminance (expressed in cd/m²) - the IES file must be specific to the Model of the fixture (for example the exact lumen package and lens type).  The IES file is typically pulled into a program such as Photometrics Toolbox which will produces the required data.  It is sometimes shown as "Average Luminance" and must be expressed in cd/m².   Please note that v4 criteria did not provide exceptions for warehouse or high bay conditions, however, those were addressed in the v4.1 addenda.  The v.1 criteria denotes no value between 45 and 90 degrees from Nadir may exceed 7000 cd/m², and includes the (warehouse/ distribution center) exception noted above.  

Mon, 01/12/2026 - 16:10

Philipp,   Depending upon your project's registration date, you will be obligated to comply with the latest v4.1 addenda (should you choose to substitute your Interior Lighting credit to v4.1).  The most recent Guides can be found at this link - scroll to the bottom : https://www.usgbc.org/leed/v41Regarding your note about luminance (expressed in cd/m²) - the IES file must be specific to the Model of the fixture (for example the exact lumen package and lens type).  The IES file is typically pulled into a program such as Photometrics Toolbox which will produces the required data.  It is sometimes shown as "Average Luminance" and must be expressed in cd/m².   Please note that v4 criteria did not provide exceptions for warehouse or high bay conditions, however, those were addressed in the v4.1 addenda.  The v.1 criteria denotes no value between 45 and 90 degrees from Nadir may exceed 7000 cd/m², and includes the (warehouse/ distribution center) exception noted above.  

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