## What is DesignLights Consortium (DLC)?
The DesignLights Consortium (DLC) is a non-profit organization that promotes the use of energy-efficient lighting products. It was founded in 1997 by the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), and the American Lighting Association (ALA). The DLC’s mission is to improve the energy efficiency of the lighting industry by providing information, tools, and resources to help end-users make informed decisions about lighting products.
The DLC’s primary activity is to develop and maintain a Qualified Products List (QPL) of energy-efficient lighting products. The QPL includes products that meet the DLC’s technical criteria, which are based on the latest energy efficiency standards. Products that are listed on the QPL are eligible for incentives and rebates from a variety of organizations, including utilities, state and local governments, and energy efficiency programs.
The DLC also provides a variety of other services to the lighting industry, including:
* **Technical assistance:** The DLC provides technical assistance to lighting manufacturers, distributors, and end-users on a variety of topics related to energy-efficient lighting.
* **Education and outreach:** The DLC develops and delivers educational materials on energy-efficient lighting to a variety of audiences, including architects, engineers, contractors, and end-users.
* **Advocacy:** The DLC advocates for energy-efficient lighting policies at the state and federal levels.
## Benefits of Using DLC-Listed Products
There are a number of benefits to using DLC-listed lighting products, including:
* **Energy savings:** DLC-listed products are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional lighting products. This can lead to substantial savings on energy bills.
* **Rebates and incentives:** Many utilities, state and local governments, and energy efficiency programs offer rebates and incentives for the purchase of DLC-listed products.
* **Improved environmental performance:** DLC-listed products help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts associated with energy use.
* **Increased lighting quality:** DLC-listed products typically provide better lighting quality than traditional lighting products. This can improve visibility, reduce eyestrain, and create a more comfortable and productive environment.
## How to Find DLC-Listed Products
DLC-listed products can be found through a variety of channels, including:
* **The DLC website:** The DLC website includes a searchable database of DLC-listed products.
* **Lighting distributors:** Many lighting distributors stock DLC-listed products.
* **Energy efficiency programs:** Many energy efficiency programs offer rebates and incentives for the purchase of DLC-listed products.
## Conclusion
The DesignLights Consortium is a valuable resource for the lighting industry. The DLC’s Qualified Products List is a reliable source of information on energy-efficient lighting products. Using DLC-listed products can help end-users save energy, earn rebates and incentives, and improve the environmental performance of their facilities.