Question 1

What does OSL actually handle in the rebate process?

Accepted Answer

We handle program research, pre-approval documentation, DLC-confirmed fixture specifications, photometric calculations, submission-ready documentation packages, and portfolio-level tracking for owners with multiple properties. It is built into the project from the start, not added at the end.

Question 2

Why do so many projects leave rebate money behind?

Accepted Answer

The most common reason is sequencing. Most utility rebate programs require pre-approval before any product is purchased or installed. When rebate management is treated as a closing task rather than a design input, pre-approval windows close, DLC qualification gets missed, and documentation assembled after the fact doesn't meet program submission standards.

Question 3

What is DLC qualification and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The Design Lights Consortium maintains a Qualified Products List that most utility rebate programs use to confirm fixture eligibility. If a fixture isn't on that list, it doesn't qualify for the rebate, regardless of how efficient it is. OSL confirms DLC listing on every fixture we specify before the specification is finalized.

Question 4

How does rebate management connect to OSL's other services?

Accepted Answer

The specification we produce for the design is the same documentation utility programs require for rebate approval. The DLC confirmation built into design is the same confirmation that determines eligibility. Rebate tracking across properties feeds warranty management, optimization, and future upgrade cycles.

Question 5

Is there a cost to finding out what our portfolio qualifies for?

Accepted Answer

No. An initial conversation costs you nothing. If the numbers don't support moving forward right now, we'll tell you that. The conversation is worth having before a program closes or a budget cycle passes.

utility rebate commercial lighting

Why OSL Builds Rebate Capture Into the Lighting Project From the Start

One Lighting Standard Across a Grocery-Anchored Retail Portfolio

Past Project: Shipping Dock and Yard Lighting for Overnight Operations

A Grocery-Anchored Parking Field Where Safety and Rebates Were Designed In Together

Exterior and Patio Lighting That Works as Hard as the Sports Bar Inside

The Photometric Redesign That Removed Five Poles and $50,000 From One Project

Even Light Across a Retail Anchor Store Parking Field