The Value of Embedded Lighting Controls by Acuity Brands

April 13, 2023

Rachael Jernigan

Lighting control solutions are in a continuous state of evolution. At the beginning, controls were panel-based that evolved to room-based analog occupancy sensors then transitioned to distributed digital devices.

Today, lighting controls are moving to embedded controls within the luminaire. An installed control is designed by the luminaire manufacturer to have the controls device as part of the luminaire – and the beauty of the embedded luminaires is they are manufactured, tested, and shipped with the control already present in the luminaire, eliminating field installation of the control.

The Transition to Embedded Controls

Several factors have led to the emergence of luminaire integrated controls, and it begins with the lighting industry transition to LED lighting and the advancements it brings. A few of the key advancements are the availability of DC power, in-luminaire digital networks, shrinking component sizes, and the increased controllability of LEDs, and have each fed into this transition to embedded controls.

Additionally, the market has continued to demand luminaire integrated controls due to the advanced configurability in complex designs and increasingly strict energy codes. The simplification of installation with fewer components and fewer interoperability challenges, along with user comfort advances in a smarter building, have fueled the transition to embedded controls.

The benefits of embedded controls luminaires are numerous. These include lower total installed cost, easier lighting controls designs, addressing energy code compliance, superior interoperability, and enhanced aesthetics.  

To learn more about embedded lighting controls, take our free e-learning Continuing Education Course.* To view the complete offering of over 500 embedded controls luminaires from Acuity Brands, go to Controls Enabled Lighting | Acuity Brands.

*Continuing Education Credits: This course is registered with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for (1) LU and with the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE) for (1) PDH. This course may also be suitable for Continuing Education Credits with other organizations that accept self-reported CEU/PDH. Please check with the organization from which you are seeking credit for their criteria.

More information available here

Related Product

Aculux Enhances Industry-leading AX3 and AX4 Series of Architectural Downlights with Gentle Light Gradients and More

Improved WarmDim® and Tunable White options offered for AX3 and now available for AX4 series. Aculux announced enhancements to the AX series, its highest-performing family of architectural recessed downlights that provide industry-leading cut-off and glare control to create quiet ceilings.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Feb 26, 2026 - CDm2 LIGHTWORKS Announces a New Partnership with Omnify

    CDm2 LIGHTWORKS Announces a New Partnership with Omnify

    CDm2 LIGHTWORKS is pleased to announce a new partnership with Omnify, a Canadian expert in high-quality, custom LED backlighting solutions. With more than 20 years of experience and a portfolio of patented, UL-certified light engines and fixtures, Omnify is trusted by designers and builders to transform architectural surfaces into luminous features. Read More…

  • Feb 25, 2026 - Lumenwerx Welcomes Justin Castellano as Their New Midwest Regional Sales Manager

    Lumenwerx Welcomes Justin Castellano as Their New Midwest Regional Sales Manager

    Lumenwerx is excited to welcome Justin Castellano as their new Midwest Regional Sales Manager! Justin brings over 10 years in architectural and commercial lighting, 15 years of consultative sales, theatrical lighting design expertise, and a background in acting. His career has given him a well-rounded perspective across the lighting ecosystem—from specification and sales to production… Read More…


Design


New Products

  • SATCO|NUVO: LED Beam Selectable Linear Highbays

    SATCO|NUVO: LED Beam Selectable Linear Highbays

    SATCO|NUVO’s new LED Beam Selectable Linear Highbays deliver powerful, configurable illumination for high-ceiling commercial and industrial environments. Each fixture features selectable beam distributions of 45°x100°, 65°x95°, or 90°x90°, providing precise control for aisle, general, or wide-area lighting layouts. All models offer 3CCT selectability modes (3000K/4000K/5000K), multiple wattage options across four lumen packages, and universal 120–347V… Read More…

  • Cooper Lighting: PrentaLux Decorative High Bay Gen 2

    Cooper Lighting: PrentaLux Decorative High Bay Gen 2

    PrentaLux is making advancements in lighting innovation and sustainability with 3D-printed luminaires like the Decorative High Bay Gen 2. This new generation offers more versatility with upgraded warmer CCTs (3000K and 3500K) and field adjustable optical distributions. The Decorative High Bay Gen 2 pairs an elegant and customizable aesthetic with the robust output needed for… Read More…