Multi-Protocol IoT Lighting Gains Ground
Lighting is increasingly a node in complex, multi-protocol building networks, with new products supporting Zigbee, LoRaWAN, and cellular standards simultaneously. Recent launches from Fonda Lighting, including a Zigbee lamp controller and a smart pole platform, show how multi-protocol readiness is becoming table stakes for specifiers who need to integrate with diverse building automation systems.
The global smart lighting market is projected to grow from USD 27.52 billion in 2026 to USD 67.83 billion by 2031, a compound annual growth rate of nearly 19.8%. This growth is fueled by new net-zero building codes, utility-funded retrofits covering 30-50% of capital costs, and the maturation of standards that unify connectivity. This integration of multiple protocols is a strategic response to varied operational needs. Zigbee is ideal for creating reliable, low-latency mesh networks for localized control in spaces like offices, while LoRaWAN provides long-range, low-power connectivity for large-scale applications such as smart cities. Cellular IoT offers high-bandwidth, low-latency communication for real-time applications like traffic management and security systems. Beyond simple connectivity, the focus is shifting to human-centric lighting that supports natural circadian rhythms. Specifications now call for tunable white technology that adjusts color temperature and intensity to mimic the sun's daily progression, which can improve sleep patterns and daytime alertness. This has led to new metrics like Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML), a standard used in WELL Building certifications to quantify the biological effects of light on humans. Architectural publications like ArchDaily emphasize that lighting is a critical design element that shapes user experience and defines the ambiance of a space. The ability to control and adapt lighting is no longer just a functional requirement but a key component of creating responsive, human-focused environments. As a result, architects are increasingly specifying systems that integrate seamlessly with building automation for dynamic control. The DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) protocol has evolved to meet these new demands. While the original DALI focused on basic fixture control, DALI-2 introduced a mandatory certification program to ensure true interoperability between manufacturers' products, and expanded to include sensors and other control devices. The latest DALI+ standard builds on DALI-2 by enabling control over wireless and IP-based networks, eliminating the need for dedicated wiring and allowing for building-wide scalability. Sustainability is also a major driver of innovation, with a push toward a circular economy in the lighting industry. This involves designing products for disassembly, servicing, and remanufacturing to keep materials in use for as long as possible. Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) are becoming standard practice to evaluate the environmental impact of a product from "cradle to cradle," challenging the industry to move beyond a simple focus on operational efficiency.
