NYC Local Law 88 (LL88), enacted as part of the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, plays a critical role in enhancing energy efficiency across New York City. Targeting large (>50,000 SF) non-residential buildings, LL88 mandates two major requirements: upgrading lighting systems to meet the current version of the NYC Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) (Learn more about the NYCECC standards), and installing electrical sub-meters for tenant spaces. These updates are designed to reduce energy consumption and provide tenants with greater transparency through monthly energy statements.
With a compliance deadline of January 1, 2025, building owners must ensure that lighting systems are modernized and that sub-metering is properly installed to avoid penalties. This blog will walk you through the key requirements of LL88 as it pertains to lighting design, which buildings and tenant spaces are covered, and how to meet the requirements on time.
Not only will the lighting require upgrades, but electrical sub-meters must be installed for all covered tenant spaces. Please see Article 310 of Chapter 3 of Title 28 and Article 311 of Chapter 3 of Title 38 of the NYC Administrative Code for more detailed requirements.
Lighting Upgrade Requirements
LL88 will require owners, of covered buildings, to make upgrades in accordance with the requirements of Article 310. They will also have to install electrical sub-meters in accordance with the requirements of Article 311. For the purposes of LL88, a “covered building” is defined as:
As it appears in the records of the Department of Finance: (i) a building that exceeds 50,000 gross square feet (4645 m2 ), (ii) two or more buildings on the same tax lot that together exceed 100,000 gross square feet (9290 m2 ), or (iii) two or more buildings held in the condominium form of ownership that are governed by the same board of managers and that together exceed 100,000 gross square feet (9290 m2 ).
Key Exceptions to LL88 Covered Building Lighting Upgrade Requirements:
The term “covered building” shall not include real property classified as class one pursuant to subdivision one of section 1802 of the real property tax law.
Also,
There will be no lighting system upgrade required for lighting systems that are in compliance with the standards of the New York City Energy Conservation Code or standards for new systems installed on or after July 1, 2010. Also, in any space with permanent floor-to-ceiling partitions and/or closable doors that meet the standards of the NYCECC new systems installed on or after July 1, 2010.
And,
No upgrade is required for the lighting system within dwelling units classified in occupancy group R-2 or R-3 or spaces serving such dwelling units, including but not limited to, hallways, laundry rooms, or boiler rooms. No upgrade is required for the lighting system within a space classified in occupancy group A-3 that is within a house of worship.
So What is Required?
The stated requirement is simply to comply with the latest version of Section 805 of the New York City Energy Conservation Code for new systems. However, this compliance path is far from simple. All aspects of the lighting systems must either be replaced or upgraded to meet the new system standards. This includes, lighting fixtures, lighting controls, light reduction controls and automatic lighting shutoff, tandem wiring, exit signs, interior lighting power density requirements, and similar criteria for all exterior lighting. Bottom line, this means a near total replacement of any system installed prior to July 1, 2010.
Doing this effectively will require a well thought out plan. One that takes into consideration not only the energy conservation features of the new lighting system but also the aesthetic, operational, and functional impacts. This presents an opportunity to building owners to modernize, update, and improve the performance of their facilities in ways that can create and add value beyond just reducing energy bills and carbon emissions. It is an opportunity to breathe new life into older buildings and highlight their unique features in a creative way, driving higher occupancy and higher rents in the process.
Who can do This Work?
These upgrades should be designed by qualified, highly trained, and experienced Lighting Designers, assisted by Registered Design Professionals, to ensure maximum value for the money spent. A lighting upgrade of this magnitude warrants careful planning, accurate calculations, and a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of the lighting systems to ensure that the end product does more than just save energy.
With the January 1, 2025 deadline approaching, it’s essential to begin planning and executing these upgrades as soon as possible, to avoid last-minute rushes and potential fines.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your lighting system upgrades and sub-metering requirements, Light Plan Design is here to help. Our team of experts are ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your building meets LL88 standards and provides a lifetime of high quality lighting. This is truly an opportunity to see your project in a whole new light! Contact Light Plan Design today to get started on your path to compliance.