Think you know every use for Power over Ethernet (PoE)? Research shows using it to power lighting can provide convenience and reduced utility cost

by Brianna Crandall — March 17, 2017 — A new report from Navigant Research analyzes the global market for Power over Ethernet (PoE) lighting, exploring market issues, codes and standards, and regional trends, while providing forecasts for Power over Ethernet lighting system revenue, through 2025.

For a variety of industries, Ethernet has served as a reliable solution for transmitting data and low-voltage direct current (DC) power through one cable, points out the report. In the lighting industry, the use of PoE is also said to offer an advantage in energy efficiency by eliminating the regularly required alternating current (AC) to DC conversion within individual luminaires.

According to the report, global revenue for Power over Ethernet lighting is expected to grow from an estimated $35.8 million in 2016 to $419.9 million in 2025.

Krystal Maxwell, research associate with Navigant Research, explained:

PoE lighting utilizes a trusted technology that, while new to the lighting industry, has experienced proven success in other applications from phone systems to cameras. By adding Ethernet to the lighting equation, companies are expanding the technology and opening the door to increased benefits in connected lighting systems.

While PoE’s success has not yet materialized for the lighting sector as it has in other industries, a number of market players support the technology’s potential. According to the report, technology companies and lighting manufacturers have begun partnering to further advance PoE lighting offerings and increase the integration of building systems.

The Power over Ethernet Lighting report, available for purchase from Navigant research, examines the global market for PoE lighting. The study provides an analysis of the market issues, including drivers and barriers, codes and standards, and regional trends, related to PoE lighting. Global forecasts for PoE lighting system revenue, segmented by building type and region, extend through 2025.

The report also examines the key technologies related to PoE lighting, such as LEDs, networked lighting systems, and DC power, as well as the competitive landscape. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research Web site.