A Guide to Lighting and Sub-metering Compliance
In the bustling metropolis of New York City, sustainability is a top priority. Among the many regulations for greener living and net zero by 2050, Local Laws 88, 132, and 134 are vital components of the city's energy conservation efforts. These laws mandate lighting upgrades for larger buildings and installing sub-meters for commercial tenants. Let's explore these regulations and what they mean for building owners and tenants alike.
Understanding Local Laws 88, 132, and 134
What Are These Laws?
Local Law 88 of 2009 and subsequent revisions, Local Law 132, and Local Law 134 are regulations governing New York City's commitment to energy efficiency. They require building owners to upgrade their lighting systems to be more energy-efficient and to install submeters for certain commercial tenant spaces.
Who Is Affected?
These laws apply to any building exceeding 25,000 square feet in size. They also encompass situations where two or more buildings on the same lot or under condominium ownership together exceed 100,000 square feet.
What Are the Key Requirements?
By January 1, 2025, building owners must do three main things:
1. Upgrade their lighting systems to meet current NYC energy code standards.
2. Install sub-meters for non-residential tenant spaces that occupy over 5,000 square feet.
3. Work with a licensed expert like Solo Energy to submit compliance reports to DOB
What's the Next Step?
Building owners looking to comply should act now to avoid disruptions for tenants and residents. To navigate these requirements smoothly, consider enlisting the help of experts like Solo Energy. Our team can assist in creating a compliance plan tailored to your building's needs.
Exceptions
1. Lighting Upgrade Exceptions (Note: Report submission is still required):
- Areas that have upgraded lighting using the energy code in effect at the time after July 2010.
- Lighting within dwelling units of occupancy group R-2 or R-3.
- Lighting within houses of worship.
2. Building Type Exceptions:
- Properties classified as class one according to section 1802 of the real property tax law.
- Properties that are three stories or less, consisting of attached, detached, or semi-detached dwellings, where each unit owner holds ownership and responsibility for HVAC and hot water systems, with no systems serving more than two units.
For detailed information and guidelines, refer to the official documents:
- LL88 Lighting and Submetering
To help owners understand these new requirements, our experts at Solo Energy can assist with mapping out a path to compliance.
