Power over Ethernet for Smaller Spaces
By Harry Aller, Innovative Lighting President
In a recent article titled “There Are No AC Outlets on Spaceships,” Joel Lorentzen makes a compelling observation about modern power infrastructure: “The people who design spaceships are the best and brightest technical minds on the planet…They know that collecting, storing, and deploying electrical energy to useful work is most efficient in the DC realm.” The point is that this insight extends far beyond spacecraft design – it’s increasingly relevant to how we should approach power distribution in our everyday spaces.
While Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology often makes the news in large commercial installations, its true potential lies in smaller spaces. Consider this: 95% of commercial buildings in the United States are 50,000 square feet or less. Add to that the thousands of new homes built each year using electrical infrastructure over a century old in design, and we begin to see an opportunity for significant change.
Rethinking Power Distribution for Modern Needs
Due to advances in energy efficiency, today’s devices predominantly operate on DC power. Our phones, laptops, LED lights, and smart devices all require DC power to function. Yet we continue to build our distribution systems and physical spaces with AC infrastructure, requiring extra power conversions that, as Lorentzen emphasizes, create unnecessary waste and inefficiency.
In smaller spaces, this inefficiency is especially noticeable. Take LED lighting as an example. Traditional AC-powered LED bulbs require built-in conversion electronics that generate heat and reduce longevity. A PoE-based approach eliminates these conversion points, delivering DC power directly to simplified, more reliable fixtures with extended longevity.
The Right Fit for Your Space
How do you know if PoE is right for your space? Consider these questions:
- Do you want automated lighting that responds to your presence?
- Are you interested in scene control and dimming capabilities?
- Would you benefit from lighting that automatically adjusts throughout the day to support your circadian rhythm?
- Do you value local control over your systems without relying on third-party cloud services?
- Are you comfortable with IT networking concepts?
If you answered yes to several of these questions, particularly regarding automated control and customization, PoE might be your ideal solution. For those with IT backgrounds, software development experience, or general technical skillsets, PoE provides a familiar framework for managing your space’s infrastructure.
How Does This Work in the Real World?
Consider the Midwest homeowner finishing their basement. Traditional electrical work might seem daunting, but PoE offers a more approachable solution for a moderately tech-savvy DIYer. Or think about the inconvenience of arriving home with your hands full of groceries, unable to reach for a light switch in a dark hallway. With PoE-powered automated lighting, your space can recognize your presence and respond accordingly, no hands required.
Since the concept of using PoE for powering and controlling devices came on the scene nearly two decades ago, we’ve seen PoE succeed in countless smaller installations. From home offices to retail spaces, the technology has proven itself especially valuable in environments under 50,000 square feet. The key to this success? Understanding that it’s not about implementing technology for technology’s sake – it’s about matching the right solution to your daily needs and comfort level.
Looking Forward
Like the spaceship designers Lorentzen references, we need to think practically about power distribution in our spaces. While PoE might not be the answer for every situation (if you just want simple on/off lighting control, traditional solutions work fine), it offers significant benefits for those seeking more from their spaces.
The technology exists today to create safer, more efficient, and more responsive environments. Whether you’re planning a new build, renovating an existing space, or simply exploring options for better control over your environment, consider challenging the norm. After all, if it’s good enough for spacecraft, perhaps it’s worth considering for your next project too.
Further Reading
Want to learn more about whether PoE might be right for your space? Consider these key questions:
- What level of control do you want over your environment?
- How comfortable are you with networking technology?
- Are you planning to integrate automation features?
- Do you value local control over cloud-based solutions?
- Are you looking to future-proof your space’s infrastructure?
Your answers to these questions can help guide you toward the most appropriate solution for your needs.
Author Bio:
Harry Aller is the President of Innovative Lighting, bringing over 20 years of experience in the LED lighting industry. Passionate about quality and innovation, Harry leads the team in developing cutting-edge lighting solutions made in Iowa. Connect with Harry on LinkedIn.