The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in November 2008 to work cooperatively toward improving the efficient use of energy by lighting equipment and systems. The MOU emphasizes the importance of minimizing the impact of energy use on the environment in support of DOE SSL programs on lighting quality.

IALD is an internationally recognized organization comprising independent and esteemed professionals dedicated to the very highest standards in lighting design. DOE's collaboration with IALD further strengthens its commitment to developing innovative, energy-efficient lighting solutions.

The MOU highlights four key areas on which the IALD and the U.S. DOE will collaborate:

-Promoting lighting design principles and technologies that improve lighting quality, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

-Developing and disseminating technical information to assist the lighting design community in the assessment and specification of SSL and other efficient technologies to support DOE programs on lighting quality such as ENERGY STAR® and SSL Quality Advocates.

-Jointly facilitating forums in which lighting designers can exchange ideas and information with DOE and provide input to DOE lighting program planning.

-Encouraging professional lighting designers to participate in DOE lighting projects, such as GATEWAY demonstrations, with particular attention to helping DOE assess lighting quality.

2008 Activities

The IALD is already working closely with DOE on several fronts. In March 2008, DOE and IALD, along with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), co-hosted a Lighting Designer Roundtable in Chicago to solicit the designer perspective on solid-state lighting market and technology issues. To learn more, see the Roundtable Report.

In addition, IALD and IESNA are co-sponsors of the new DOE Next Generation LuminairesTM Design Competition, which recognizes excellence in the design of energy-efficient LED commercial lighting luminaires. IALD members also contribute to DOE GATEWAY demonstration activities, including a recent tour and roundtable discussion on the LED roadway lighting for the new I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota.