New 2020 NYCECC: what’s changed?
The 2020 NYCECC took effect on May 12, 2020, and came with some substantial changes from the 2016 NYCECC. We answer some commonly asked question about the most significant updates in the 2020 NYCECC and which projects can still follow the 2016 NYCC.
Climate change, Local Law 97, and regulations the 2020 NYCECC
New York City has long been a leader in building standards. But the new 2020 NYCECC lays out of the tightest regulations yet. According to Urban Green Council, the 2020 NYCECC is almost 44% stricter than it was a decade ago.
Some of those strict regulations are in response to climate change and the city-wide goal of reducing carbon footprint. (With a 2050 goal of net zero carbon emissions.) In May of 2019, the city entered into record Local Law 97 of 2019. The law sets new emission requirements that take effect in 2024. New York City's 2020 energy conservation code makes headway toward those goals. (And even tighter codes are expected in the next version.)
Key changes for 2020
As the NYCECC evolves and works toward lowering emissions, we see a shift away from prescriptive codes. More than individual requirements, the city focuses on performance code, or how a whole building performs on its overall energy expenditure.
Increased testing to ensure accountability
Under the 2016 code, buildings of 25,000 square feet or more were required to test for air leakage. Now, structures of 10,000 square feet or larger must determine air leakage via sample testing.
Changes to envelope
In 2020, there are a number of changes to envelope for walls, floors, heated slabs, and more to help improve whole-building energy conservation and limit air leakage. One of these changes involves balconies and parapets. To reduce thermal envelope interference, continuous insulation must meet the minimum R-value for type of wall or R-3 thermal break.
Updated lighting requirements
The 2020 NYCECC further reduces the amount of energy lighting can use. Previously, three-quarters of lighting in a building needed to be energy-efficient. Now, 90% or more of lighting must comply. There are also tighter regulations on occupancy censors and daylight controls.
Controls on HVACs
Updates to HVAC reflect the trend toward whole-building performance and carbon reduction. HVAC systems face new energy-efficiency requirements and greater controls.
Creating plans and supporting documentation for the 2020 NYCECC
When submitting plans, be specific about the number and type of elements and components in the building. To show compliance with the 2020 NYCECC, create supporting documentation to be detailed yet clear. We can help.