Meeting the Demands of a Modern School
Educational environments present unique challenges when it comes to lighting control. Classrooms, corridors, and shared spaces all require different lighting behaviours, while occupancy patterns change constantly throughout the day. The system needed to provide flexible and responsive lighting control while also integrating with the building management system to deliver valuable performance data.
Under the ESFA framework, energy efficiency and building performance were key priorities. The lighting system needed to support accurate occupancy monitoring, provide seamless BMS integration, and contribute to a data-driven approach to energy management and building simulation.
A Smart DALI-2 Lighting Solution
zencontrol implemented a fully addressable DALI-2 system across the entire school, incorporating Application Controllers, LCMs, PIR sensors, and LED-indicated switches. This intelligent combination of devices allows lighting to automatically respond to occupancy and usage patterns, ensuring that energy is only used when and where it is needed.
LED-indicated switches provide clear and intuitive control for staff, while PIR sensors ensure lighting operates efficiently throughout classrooms and communal areas. The system creates a comfortable and well-lit learning environment while reducing unnecessary energy consumption and simplifying day-to-day operation for facilities teams.
Data-Driven BMS Integration
A key feature of the Eden Park High School project is the integration of the lighting control system with the building management system using BACnet over IP. Occupancy data collected by the zencontrol system is shared with the BMS, enabling the creation of detailed energy profiles for the school.
This data is then fed into virtual environment building simulation software, allowing building performance to be analysed and optimised over time. The approach enables more accurate energy modelling, improved operational efficiency, and a deeper understanding of how the building performs in real-world conditions.
By transforming lighting data into actionable insights, zencontrol helped create a smarter, more sustainable educational environment.
Award-Winning Collaboration
The innovative integration between lighting control, BMS, and building simulation software was recognised by CIBSE, earning the project the Building Performance Award 2020 for Collaboration. This recognition highlights the success of the collaborative approach between zencontrol, Derry Building Services, and project partners in delivering a high-performance, data-driven building.
The award demonstrates how intelligent lighting control can play a critical role in improving building performance and supporting sustainability goals within the education sector.
Designed for Long-Term Efficiency
The DALI-2 lighting infrastructure at Eden Park High School has been designed with long-term performance and scalability in mind. The system provides a flexible platform that can adapt to future operational needs while continuing to deliver accurate data and reliable control.
By combining intelligent automation, seamless BMS integration, and advanced energy profiling, the project supports ongoing efficiency improvements and ensures the school benefits from a future-ready lighting solution.
Delivering Measurable Results
Eden Park High School now benefits from a fully integrated and intelligent lighting control system that enhances energy efficiency, improves operational insight, and supports a comfortable learning environment for students and staff. zencontrol has delivered a solution that combines smart DALI-2 technology, data-driven performance monitoring, and award-winning collaboration to create a high-performing educational facility.
Delivered in partnership with Derry Building Services, the project demonstrates zencontrol’s ability to provide innovative and scalable lighting control solutions for modern schools, helping to set new standards for building performance and sustainability.