System and method include luminaires, control switches, occupancy detectors, and photocells connected to central control module for setting up, testing, commissioning and maintaining the system. Memory card interface and associated memory card provided for loading, saving and/or transferring configuration, update firmware, and log system operation data, which can be automatically recognized to perform appropriate actions. System and method provide switching between different mutually exclusive lighting modes where lighting of each mode is sequenced such that second lighting mode is initiated before first mode is terminated, resulting in continuity of lighting in controlled area. Other features include daylight harvesting control with multiple zone dimming and switching, programmable attack and decay dimming rates, ability to return system to previous dimming level after lights have been turned off, and ability to start controlled lights at full light level then dim down to previous level to ensure lighting ballasts have sufficient start up voltage.