The Next Generation Luminaires competition is a joint venture of the US Department of Energy, the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), and the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA). Its goal is to promote effective LED lighting by answering the market’s critical concerns about product performance and quality and by recognizing those LED luminaires that meet these market needs today.
Over two days, judges from the design and energy community evaluate and measure products that are currently on the market or ready for introduction. The judges examine lighted samples in their intended applications, as well as photometric and other documentation, looking at the quality and quantity of illumination, energy, and serviceability, among other criteria. Importantly, Next Generation Luminaires is inclusive: all products that meet minimum criteria are recognized; from this group, the judges can select those deemed best in class.
Products that are recognized (either generally or as best in class) are awarded certificates. The results – including the manufacturer’s identity – are published by NGL and publicized at industry events around the country.
The 2008 Next Generation Luminaires competition featured 68 products, 22 of which were recognized, with three named best in class.
In the 2009 Next Generation Luminaires competition , 126 products were judged with 43 recognized and four named best in class. Winners were announced at the 2009 Strategies in Light conference in California. .
How to participate in Next Generation Luminaires 2010
Full rules can be found on the Next Generation Luminaires website. Intent to Submit forms are due by August 18, 2010, and final forms and documentation should be submitted by September 15, 2010. Actual product submission takes place on October 1, 2010. Judging will occur on October 28-29, 2010, with the results announced in February 2011. There is no fee for participation or limit on the number of products entered.
