Local Law 88 requires covered buildings to upgrade lighting to meet current energy code standards, and to install electrical submeters for non-residential tenant spaces over 5,000 sq ft. Submeters allow landlords to bill tenants based on actual electricity use. The lighting upgrade and submetering compliance deadline for most buildings was 2025.
Covered buildings must upgrade lighting in common areas, service spaces, and parking areas to meet current NYC Energy Conservation Code standards. This typically means transitioning to LED fixtures with occupancy sensors and daylight controls where applicable. The requirement is for upgrades when systems are replaced, not a forced immediate replacement of all existing fixtures.
If a non-residential tenant occupies more than 5,000 sq ft, the building owner must install a dedicated electrical submeter for that tenant space. After installation, the tenant must receive monthly statements showing actual electricity consumption.
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Failure to comply with lighting upgrade requirement | $1,000–$5,000/year |
| Failure to install required submeters | $1,000–$5,000/year |
| Failure to provide monthly consumption statements to tenants | $1,000/year |