The NYC Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) just got a lot less confusing, thanks to the recent proposed update to Title 1 of the Rules of the City of New York 5000 (1 RCNY 5000-01) by the NYC Department of Buildings. When the 2016 NYCECC went into effect this past October, the RCNY 5000 was not updated as needed. Understandably, this caused confusion for design professionals attempting to file drawings in compliance with New York City’s current energy code requirements. 

On July 20, the DOB proposed an update of the RCNY 5000 to reflect the 2016 NYCECC changes and clear up any misunderstandings. The proposed RCNY 5000 can be found on the NYC Rules website. 

What is the 2016 NYCECC?
Since 1979, new construction and major alterations have been required to comply with the State Energy Code. In July of 2010, New York City initiated its own New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC), applicable to all alterations. The NYCECC has been amended numerous times since it first went into effect and was most recently amended on October 3, 2016. The NYCECC is comprised of a combination of New York City local laws and the current Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State (ECCCNYS). By law the NYCECC must be stricter than the ECCCNYS and applies to all local government energy codes.

What is the RCNY 5000?
The 1 RCNY 5000-01 Title details the requirements for filings and approval of construction documents and progress inspections during construction in accordance with the NYCECC. In other words, this document tells design professionals what must be included or done to comply with the NYCECC—a major part in making the energy code effective. 

How the 2016 NYCECC and RCNY 5000 work together
The RCNY 5000 helps design professionals understand how to comply with the NYCECC. As the NYCECC gets updated over time with changes, additions, and removals, the RCNY 5000 also needs to be updated to reflect those changes, to ensure as much of a hassle-free accordance with the energy code as possible.

For anyone filing drawings in New York City or preparing for energy code inspections, refer to the proposed RCNY 5000 to best avoid confusion and ensure NYCECC compliance. 

Milrose Consultants is knowledgeable and experienced in helping clients reach full compliance with NYC's new energy code. If you have questions or would like our assistance with meeting energy code, contact our Code Department and we will be happy to assist you.