Online Lighting Calculator

The Online Lighting Calculator (OLC) is BPA’s newest tool for reporting non-residential lighting projects. In March 2025, BPA will begin to replace the spreadsheet-based Nonresidential Lighting Calculator (LC6.0) with the cloud-based Online Lighting Calculator, which will enhance user experience, reliability, and cybersecurity.

Key Dates and Requirements: LC6.0 will officially retire in September 2025. All projects using LC6.0 must be completed and invoiced through BPA Energy Efficiency Tracking System (BEETS) by then. BPA will announce a specific date in September. As each utility completes online training and transitions to the OLC platform, BPA requests that utilities use the OLC exclusively and refrain from submitting applications using LC6.0. BPA staff will be available to support migrating projects from LC6.0 to the OLC platform. To ensure timely responses, we ask that you begin submitting your requests at your earliest convenience.

Access the OLC: Coming soon. OLC in final stages of testing.

  • Utilities: BPA will create one administrator account for each utility. The administrator will be able to create standard user accounts or view-only accounts for other staff within their organization.

  • Trade Allies: To request access to the tool, please email lighting@bpa.gov. Be sure to include the name and email address of the individual who will act as your organization's account administrator, along with the company and website URL.

Live Training

Throughout the spring, BPA will hold live, online training sessions for separate user groups. If you’re interested in attending these sessions, please email lighting@bpa.gov to confirm space is available. Additional training may not be available beyond the dates listed. However, training videos will be posted and available as well as Office Hours to respond to questions and provide additional guidance.

  • Utilities: Trainings are scheduled for the weeks of 3/10, 3/24, 4/7, 4/21, 5/5, 5/19.
  • Trade Allies: Trainings are scheduled for the weeks of 3/17, 3/31, 4/14, 4/28, 5/12, 5/26. 

Training will be split into two parts, plus optional office hours: 

  • OLC Training Part 1: Held Tuesdays 2-3:30 p.m., provides a high-level introduction to the tool, including benefits of the new system, general layout, user roles, and workflows. Click here to join, or save to your calendar (Note: This is a recurring training invitation).
  • OLC Training Part 2: Held Wednesdays 2-3:30 p.m., covers the steps to create a new lighting project in the OLC from beginning to end. Click here to join, or save to your calendar (Note: This is a recurring training invitation). 
  • Office Hours: This optional open-ended working session held each Thursday 2-3:30 p.m., provides hands-on assistance with logging in, using the tool, and troubleshooting issues. Bring your questions! Click here to join, or save to your calendar (Note: This is a recurring training invitation). 

Additional Resources