What is the bi-level switching requirement?
Switches that simply turn luminaires “on” and “off” do not count as bi-level switching. Bi-level switching is defined as manual or automatic control, or a combination of both, that provides two levels of lighting power in a space, not including off. A space is defined as an area enclosed by 4 or more floor-to-ceiling walls. Bi-level switching can be as simple as a split-ballasting system able to control ½ of the lamps or fixtures, bi-level ballasts, multiple ballasts, dimming ballasts, manual switches or dimmers or photo sensors and other strategies. The exceptions to the bi-level switch requirement are hotel/motel guest rooms, store rooms, restrooms and public lobbies. Remember that you must also comply with local codes. Some state energy codes define what can be considered bi-level switching, so be sure and check the local codes to make sure you are in compliance.
