NYC’s Ultra-Low Energy Building (ULEB) program is an incentive program for new construction that provides up to 5% additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to projects that meet stringent energy performance standards beyond baseline code requirements. ULEB compliance is closely tied to Local Law 154, the Building Electrification Law, which prohibits the on-site combustion of high-carbon fuels in new buildings and mandates the use of electricity for heating, hot water, and cooking. The building shall comply with the requirements of Local Law 154 of 2021, as such requirements would apply to a new building where an application for the approval of construction documents is submitted to the Commissioner of Buildings after July 1, 2027. ULEB utilizes comprehensive energy modeling to assess performance, incorporating tenant-installed systems, and is a strategy to achieve the city’s climate goals by promoting building energy efficiency and decarbonization.
What is the ULEB Program?
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Incentive:The ULEB program rewards developers with up to 5% more buildable space (FAR) for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency in new buildings.
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Goal:It supports the city’s sustainability goals by encouraging high-performance, low-energy, and all-electric building designs.
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Compliance:To qualify for the ULEB credit, new construction projects must undergo comprehensive energy modeling that demonstrates their performance exceeds code baseline by at least 15%, according to the NYC Energy Conservation Code.
How ULEB relates to Local Law 154:
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LL154’s Role:Local Law 154 (passed in 2021) is the foundational electrification law that prohibits fossil fuel use and sets carbon limits for new construction and major renovations.
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ULEB’s Strategy:The ULEB program encourages compliance with the city’s broader goals, including the electrification mandate of Local Law 154, by providing a tangible incentive for building beyond minimum requirements.
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All-Electric Mandate:LL154 mandates the use of electricity for heating, cooking, and hot water, phasing out fossil fuels like natural gas and oil in new construction.
Key Aspects of ULEB Compliance
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Energy Modeling:A comprehensive energy model is required to demonstrate energy savings against the baseline code.
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Holistic Approach:The modeling includes both regulated and non-regulated end-uses, meaning factors like tenant-installed lighting and appliances, food service, and elevators are considered in the energy calculations.
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Regulatory Approval:A compliant energy model must be submitted to and reviewed by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) to secure the ULEB credit.