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    Energy Code Analysis for Interior Renovations - Lights use Energy Too

    With the implementation of the 2010 New York City Energy Conservation Code, almost any interior renovation job requires an Energy Code analysis of some magnitude. The NYCECC adopts all aspects of the 2010 New York State Energy Conservation Code except Chapter 1, Administration. The City has written their own administrative section which is much more restrictive in terms of types of buildings and types of renovations that are exempt from following the Code. As a result almost any filing requires some sort of Energy Code Analysis.

    A typical energy code analysis consists of three parts – analysis of the Building Envelope, the Mechanical Systems and Lighting.

    For a partial renovation (as opposed to a new building or a gut rehab) a tabular analysis must be provided for Building Envelope and Mechanical Systems. This tabular analysis is done manually and addresses only areas and items being renovated – it does not address existing conditions. Either a Com Chek analysis or tabular analysis can be used for the Lighting portion of the partial renovation.

    An interior renovation job, by definition, should not impact any portion of the building’s exterior and therefore an Envelope analysis will not be required. Any modification or installation of ductwork or replacement or installation of HVAC or other mechanical equipment will trigger a Mechanical Systems analysis. For most office renovations, the Mechanical Analysis will be required. For most residential renovations, it will not.

    The Lighting analysis seems to affect the vast majority of interior renovations, both residential and commercial. Applicants must submit a reflected ceiling plan showing both ceiling and wall mounted lighting and switching, as well as a complete lighting schedule indicating the wattage of the lamps to be used in each fixture. The Lighting analysis is straightforward and relatively easy to perform. Our experience has shown that lighting layouts normally do not change due to the Analysis although specified bulbs often do (as in the case when fluorescents replace incandescent bulbs).

    The DOB does not accept electrical drawings for approval, therefore the lighting and switching must be shown on the architectural plans. Section 505 of the NYSECC provides reference Table 505.5.2 which lists the maximum wattage per square foot allowable based on occupancy. An analysis must demonstrate that the proposed lighting does not exceed the maximum wattage allowed based on the size of the space.

    Commercial spaces often need to modify lighting controls, also covered in Section 505. Frequent modifications include the installation of occupancy sensors or timers for the lighting. A major design issue is the requirement to provide most rooms and areas with dual switching, meaning that the users of the space have the ability to turn on only half of the lights at any one time.

    Designers must carefully review the controls requirements of Chapter 5. Failure to design and build in compliance with these requirements will make it impossible for Special Inspectors to sign off the related Energy inspections at the end on the job. If the Special Inspectors cannot sign off, then the DOB application cannot be closed out.

    Failure to close out applications can put the design professionals at risk of sanctions from the Department of Buildings. It also can affect a building owner’s ability to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy.

    Posted By Austin Regan

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