At NYControlled 2025, Randy Reid spoke with Steven Zhou, Executive Vice President of mwConnect, about the company’s latest innovation—a thermostat that communicates with lighting sensors using Bluetooth NLC. This breakthrough solution brings lighting and HVAC systems together through open standards that encourage interoperability.

Bridging Lighting and HVAC
Traditionally, integrating lighting and HVAC required complex and expensive systems like BACnet. mwConnect’s approach eliminates that barrier by using Bluetooth NLC profiles to connect lighting sensors directly to thermostats. Designed for small and medium-sized buildings with rooftop units, this system allows thermostats to respond to occupancy data from lighting sensors, automatically adjusting temperature setpoints when spaces are unoccupied.

Energy Savings Made Simple
Zhou emphasized that the solution is not only efficient but also easy to deploy. “It’s a simple and elegant solution to help save more energy—not only from lighting but also from the HVAC system,” he said. The thermostat is available now through MW Connect’s traditional lighting channels, as well as through HVAC partners like Network Thermostat.

Looking Ahead with AI and Data
When asked what’s next, Zhou shared his excitement for the future of data-driven automation. mwConnect plans to leverage cloud data and AI to further optimize building performance. “The next step is taking data from lighting and HVAC systems, processing it through AI to optimize building automation,” he said.

mwConnect continues to lead with innovation—pioneering seamless connectivity between building systems and setting the stage for intelligent energy management.