Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)

The IES builds upon a century of excellence to create a premier lighting community dedicated to promoting the art and science of quality lighting to its members, allied professional organizations, and the public. We offer online education, live webinars, technical standards and research publications and so much more.

At IES we believe Light is vital to life; it is as important as air, food, water and shelter. Light and the absence of light affect human vision, health, and behavior. Lighting should enhance comfort and aesthetics, important components of the built environment. Lighting designs should respond to human needs, while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

Lighting quality should be a priority at the onset of any design and be maintained throughout the construction process. Sustained research is necessary to quantify lighting benefits that improve the quality of life. Lighting Standards and policies should be based on the consensus of topic experts informed by scientifically validated data. Lighting quality encompasses the appropriate use of light and darkness for human needs, achieving the optimum balance of the practical and aesthetic issues of the built environment.

As the lighting authority, the IES believes that collaboration with other non-lighting organizations on lighting policies and regulations is essential for the benefit of the public interest. Global collaboration and member participation are vital to the long-term viability of the lighting community.

Education is critical to maintaining a robust, dynamic lighting community and for continued professional growth.