Our project is a multifamily residential building and we would like to verify our approach in meeting the requirements of credit EQ C6.1. Based on the CIR ruling dated 1/29/2008, by providing on/off controls for fixed lighting installed in spaces for individual use (kitchens, bedrooms) and shared multi-occupant spaces, this credit can be achieved. However, it is not clear if providing switched wall receptacles is an acceptable control measure for spaces with no fixed (permanent) lighting installed and hence our query. Our approach to the credit is outlined below 1) For the residential unit bedrooms, kitchen and dining rooms, fixed lighting will be installed, serving the needs of those spaces. On/off controls for the light fixtures will be provided. 2) In addition, the bedrooms will also have switched wall receptacles for the convenience of the tenants individual lighting needs. 3) The living rooms will not have any fixed lighting installed. A switched wall receptacle, allowing the tenant to choose their own light fixture, gives the tenant controllability of the light with an on/off switch. We believe that the intent of the credit to provide \'controllability\' of light is met, even if the actual light fixture is not permanently installed. 4) The living room will also have a junction box for a future fan or ceiling light, at the discretion of the tenant with a separate wall switch to control the fan and light independently. 5) The clubhouse area which can be regarded as a shared multi-occupant space will have occupancy sensors for lighting and also on/off switches for manual over ride. Please confirm that the above approach is acceptable.
The applicant is requesting clarification regarding the use of switched receptacles in residential applications to satisfy the credit requirements. The proposed approach appears to satisfy the credit intent. The LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide states that task lights do not need to be permanently wired and ideally allow the occupant to reposition the lighting fixture. This guidance is also applicable to group multi-occupant residential spaces. The living room, which is not equipped with fixed lighting, has been provided two separate controls: switched receptacles for non-fixed lighting fixtures and a junction box and lighting controls for a possible future fixture. The installation of switched receptacles provides occupants with another level of lighting control. In addition, all of the other spaces have been provided with fixed lighting that satisfies the requirements outlined in the 1/29/2008 CIR. When applying for this credit, the project team should also provide documentation to confirm that a sufficient number of lighting fixtures to provide the required space lighting have been connected to the proposed controls for group multi-occupant spaces.
**Update October 1, 2013: Applicable credits have been updated.