The new L-Prize® competition, launched in 2021, is designed to catalyze transformative LED lighting innovation, products, and impact. The L-Prize is primed to unlock the full potential of LED technology—to combine high luminaire efficacy with exceptional lighting quality, data-driven control and functionality, and sustainable design and construction for the future of illumination in commercial buildings. In addition to these technical innovations, the L-Prize also prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in how luminaires or lighting systems can benefit communities that have been historically disadvantaged.
Watch video of Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm announcing the L-Prize at the Better Buildings Summit.
3 Phases + Teaming Opportunities
Concept Phase: 4 winners selected ($20,000 each) COMPLETE
Invited innovative concept proposals, providing competitors with an opportunity to receive feedback on their proposals and potential for cash award.
Watch video of Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm announcing the L-Prize Concept Phase winners at the 2022 DOE Solid-State Lighting Workshop, and read the DOE winner announcement.
Prototype Phase: Up to 6 winners ($2,000,000 prize pool) OPEN NOW
Seeks prototype systems, emphasizing technological innovation and challenging entrants to think outside standard forms, materials, and price points of commercially available products.
To view the full competition details, visit the L-Prize website.
Manufacturing & Installation Phase: Up to 4 winners ($10,000,000 prize pool)
Rewards production and installation of real products meeting the L-Prize technical requirements, with incentives to manufacture and install these products in the U.S.
Teaming opportunities will connect potential entrants with manufacturing partners, materials or component suppliers, end-user installation host sites, utilities, energy service companies, installation contractors, and others interested in teaming with or supporting L-Prize teams in the Manufacturing and Installation Phase of the competition. Learn more.
60W L-Prize Competition
The first L-Prize, awarded in 2011, recognized breakthrough performance in an LED replacement for the common 60-watt light bulb. The technology innovations in the winning product—including more efficacious LED chips, electronic miniaturization, better heat transfer, improved optics, and remote phosphors—have had a lasting impact, finding their way into millions of subsequent products that continue to save massive amounts of energy each year. Learn more about the 60W competition.
