Energize Denver Lighting Requirements: New Standards for Energy Efficiency

Denver’s ambitious climate action plan includes the Energize Denver program, which aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions from buildings. A key component of this initiative focuses on lighting requirements for existing structures. These standards are designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact across the city.

Buildings 5,000 square feet and larger must comply with prescriptive lighting or solar requirements as part of the Energize Denver Ordinance. This effort targets a wide range of properties, from small businesses to large commercial complexes, ensuring a comprehensive approach to energy conservation.

Property owners and managers should familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties. By understanding and implementing these lighting standards, you can contribute to Denver’s sustainability goals while potentially reducing your energy costs.

What Are the Energize Denver Lighting Requirements?

The Energize Denver ordinance sets specific lighting requirements for buildings to improve energy efficiency. These requirements cover lighting power allowances, control systems, and exceptions for certain situations.

Lighting Power Allowances by Space Type

The Energize Denver ordinance establishes maximum lighting power densities for different space types. You must ensure your building’s lighting meets these allowances. For example, office spaces may have limits that are different from retail areas or warehouses.

To comply, you can:

• Install more efficient light fixtures
• Reduce the number of fixtures
• Use lower-wattage bulbs

Calculating your current lighting power density and comparing it to the requirements for your specific space type is crucial. Check out our cost savings calculator to calculate how much you could save.

Controls, Sensors, and Daylighting Requirements

You must implement advanced lighting controls to meet Energize Denver standards. These include:

• Occupancy sensors in frequently unoccupied areas
• Daylight-responsive controls near windows and skylights
• Time-based scheduling systems

These controls help reduce energy waste by automatically adjusting lighting levels based on occupancy and natural light availability. You should also consider installing dimming capabilities for further energy savings.

Exceptions and Alterations

Some exceptions to the lighting requirements exist:

1. Historic buildings may have modified standards
2. Specialty lighting (e.g., for medical procedures) may be exempt
3. Small alterations affecting less than 10% of the lighting load

When making alterations, including lighting retrofits, you must bring the affected areas up to code. This includes upgrading to LED lighting or meeting the 2019 Denver Building and Fire Code for lighting power density.

Remember to document any exceptions or alterations for compliance reporting. Consult with a lighting professional to ensure your building meets all Energize Denver requirements while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.

Which Properties Are Covered?

The Energize Denver program applies to specific types of buildings based on size and use. Understanding which properties fall under these requirements is crucial for building owners and managers in Denver.

Building Size Thresholds

Covered buildings under the Energize Denver program are divided into two main categories based on size:

1. Buildings 5,000 to 24,999 square feet
2. Buildings 25,000 square feet and larger

Each category has distinct requirements and deadlines. If your property falls within these size ranges, you’ll need to comply with specific benchmarking and energy performance standards.

Covered Property Types

The Energize Denver program encompasses a wide range of property types, including:

• Commercial offices
• Retail spaces
• Hotels
• Multifamily residential buildings
• Industrial facilities
• Educational institutions
• Healthcare facilities

You’re likely subject to the program’s requirements if you own or manage any of these property types within the specified size thresholds.

Exemptions

Some properties may be exempt from Energize Denver requirements. Exemptions typically include:

• Buildings used primarily for manufacturing or industrial purposes
• Properties that have been vacant for at least 12 months
• Buildings undergoing major renovations or demolition

You should check with the Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency to confirm if your property qualifies for an exemption. It’s important to note that exemptions are not automatic and may require documentation or approval.

Compliance and Reporting

Building owners in Denver must adhere to specific lighting requirements and report their progress. The city has established deadlines, reporting procedures, and a checklist to ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Deadlines for Lighting Upgrades

You must complete lighting upgrades by certain dates based on your building’s size. For buildings 25,000 square feet and larger, upgrades are required by 2025. Buildings between 5,000 and 24,999 square feet have until 2027 to comply.

These deadlines ensure a phased approach to improving energy efficiency across Denver’s building stock. You should plan your upgrades well in advance to meet these timelines.

Reporting Lighting Efficiency Measures

You are required to report your building’s lighting efficiency measures through the Energize Denver program. This reporting helps the city track progress toward its energy goals.

To report, you’ll need to benchmark your building’s energy use and provide details on lighting upgrades. The reporting process includes:

1. Documenting the types of lighting installed
2. Calculating energy savings from upgrades
3. Providing proof of installation or purchases

Submit your report annually through the Energize Denver portal.

Energize Denver Lighting Checklist

The Energize Denver program provides a lighting checklist to help you ensure compliance. Key items on this checklist include:

• Inventory of all lighting fixtures
• Verification that all lighting meets 2019 Denver Building and Fire Code for lighting power density
• Confirmation of LED installation where applicable
• Documentation of any renewable energy used to offset lighting energy use

Use this checklist as a guide when planning and implementing your lighting upgrades. It will help you stay on track and ensure you meet all requirements.

Understanding Energize Denver Benchmarking and Energy Performance Requirements

Denver’s energy efficiency program sets specific targets for buildings to reduce energy consumption and increase sustainability. The requirements vary based on building size and type, with different timelines and compliance methods.

Compliance Guide for Buildings 25,000 Square Feet and Greater

Buildings 25,000 square feet and larger must meet energy performance requirements as part of the High-Performance Existing Building Program. You need to address existing building performance through energy efficiency and renewables.

Key compliance steps:

• Benchmark your building’s energy use
• Determine your building’s Energy Use Intensity (EUI) target
• Implement energy-saving measures
• Consider on-site or off-site renewable energy options

You can choose from multiple pathways to meet the requirements, including achieving your EUI target, reducing energy use by 30%, or demonstrating high performance.

Requirements for Buildings between 5,000 and 24,999 Square Feet

Smaller buildings face different requirements focused on lighting upgrades. You must comply with new lighting density standards to reduce energy use.

Compliance deadlines:

• December 31, 2025: 15,001-24,999 square feet
• December 31, 2026: 10,001-15,000 square feet
• December 31, 2027: 5,000-10,000 square feet

You can meet requirements by upgrading to efficient lighting or demonstrating equivalent energy savings through other measures.

Disclosure Requirements for All Buildings 5,000 Square Feet and Larger

All covered buildings must participate in energy benchmarking. You’re required to:

• Annually report your building’s energy use
• Use the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool
• Submit data by June 1st each year

The city provides a public benchmarking map showing building performance. This transparency encourages energy efficiency and helps potential tenants or buyers make informed decisions.

Energize Denver Rules and Regulations Enforcement and Penalties

Compliance with Energize Denver is mandatory. Failure to meet requirements can result in penalties.

Potential consequences:

• Fines for non-compliance
• Legal action by the city
• Difficulty selling or leasing your property

To avoid issues, familiarize yourself with your building size’s specific rules and regulations. The city offers resources and support to help you understand and meet your obligations.

Proactive compliance not only avoids penalties but can lead to energy cost savings and improved building value.

Steps to Achieve Compliance

Building owners in Denver must follow specific lighting requirements to meet Energize Denver standards. These include upgrading to LED lighting, adhering to power density limits, and completing proper documentation.

Mandatory LED Lighting Standards

You must replace all non-LED lighting fixtures with LED alternatives to comply with Energize Denver. This applies to interior and exterior lighting in commercial and multifamily buildings.

LED upgrades should focus on high-use areas first:

• Common spaces
• Hallways
• Parking garages
• Exterior lighting

Choose LED products with Energy Star or DesignLights Consortium (DLC) certification for optimal energy efficiency and performance. Consider factors like color temperature and dimming capabilities when selecting new fixtures.

Power Density Requirements

Your building must meet specific lighting power density (LPD) limits set by Energize Denver. LPD is measured in watts per square foot and varies by space type.

Common LPD limits:

• Offices: 0.64 W/sq ft
• Retail: 0.84 W/sq ft
• Warehouses: 0.45 W/sq ft

To calculate your building’s LPD:

1. Determine the total wattage of all lighting fixtures
2. Divide by the total square footage of the space

Implement lighting controls like occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting to further reduce power consumption. This can help you meet or exceed the required LPD limits.

Documentation and Certification Process

You must provide detailed documentation to prove compliance with Energize Denver lighting requirements. This process involves several steps:

1. Conduct a comprehensive lighting audit of your building
2. Create an inventory of all lighting fixtures, including wattage and type
3. Calculate the current LPD for each space type

Submit the following to the city:

• Completed lighting compliance form
• Detailed lighting plans showing fixture locations and types
• Product specifications for new LED fixtures
• Calculations demonstrating LPD compliance

Retain all documentation, including receipts and contractor invoices, for potential audits. The city may request on-site inspections to verify compliance with reported upgrades and power density requirements.

Implementation Best Practices

Implementing Energize Denver’s lighting requirements effectively involves careful planning, product selection, and learning from successful projects. These key steps will help you achieve compliance while maximizing energy savings and building performance.

Conducting an Energy Audit

Begin by assessing your building’s current lighting systems. Identify areas with inefficient fixtures and calculate energy usage. Evaluate lighting quality, occupancy patterns, and natural light availability.

Create an inventory of existing fixtures, including type, wattage, and quantity. Measure illumination levels to ensure new lighting will meet required standards.

Contact us for a professional energy assessment. Our expert team can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your lighting and energy systems, offering detailed recommendations tailored to your specific needs. We’ll help you prioritize upgrades for maximum impact and energy savings, ensuring you get the most value from your investment in energy-efficient solutions.

Selecting the Right LED Products

We choose LED products that meet Denver’s energy performance requirements and look for fixtures with high lumens per watt and long lifespans.

We consider these factors when selecting LEDs:

• Color temperature (warm vs. cool light)
• Color rendering index (CRI)
• Dimming capabilities
• Compatibility with existing controls

Opt for ENERGY STAR or DesignLights Consortium (DLC) certified products to ensure quality and performance. These certifications can also help you qualify for rebates or incentives.

Resources and Support

The Energize Denver program offers various resources to help building owners meet lighting requirements. These include financial incentives, dedicated support, and practical tools to guide implementation.

Incentives and Rebates

Sun Bright LED stands out in the industry by simplifying the rebate process for our clients. Unlike other companies, we handle all aspects of rebate writing and application, saving you time and hassle. 

What’s more, we offer an unparalleled benefit: the rebate amount is deducted from your project cost upfront. This means you don’t have to wait for reimbursement or worry about paperwork. 

Our expertise in navigating the Energize Denver incentives ensures you receive the maximum possible rebate for your lighting upgrades. 

With Sun Bright LED, you can immediately enjoy the financial benefits of energy-efficient lighting without the typical delays associated with rebate programs. Act now to take advantage of our streamlined process and start saving on your lighting upgrade today.

Contacting the Energize Denver Help Desk

The Energize Denver Help Desk is your go-to resource for questions about lighting requirements. You can reach them by phone at (844) 536-4528 or email at energizedenver@denvergov.org.

The help desk staff can assist with:

• Interpreting ordinance requirements
• Guidance on compliance pathways
• Technical questions about lighting upgrades
• Help with rebate applications

Response times are typically within 1-2 business days. For complex inquiries, they may schedule a consultation with a program expert.

Additional Tools and Guides

Energize Denver offers several tools to support your lighting upgrade process:

1. Building Performance Forecasting Calculator: Estimate energy savings from lighting improvements.
   
2. Lighting Audit Template: A spreadsheet to inventory your current lighting and plan upgrades.
   
3. Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful lighting projects in Denver buildings.
   
4. Vendor Directory: A list of qualified contractors for lighting installations.
   

You can access these resources on the Energize Denver website. The program also hosts regular webinars and workshops covering lighting topics. Check the events calendar for upcoming sessions.

Navigating the Energize Denver lighting requirements is essential for property owners and managers committed to energy efficiency and sustainability. By understanding and implementing these standards, you not only comply with the city’s ambitious climate goals but also benefit from reduced energy costs and improved building performance. 

Upgrading to efficient lighting, utilizing advanced controls, and adhering to power density limits can significantly impact your property’s energy use. With the support and resources available through the Energize Denver program, achieving compliance is a streamlined process that offers long-term advantages for both the environment and your bottom line. Contact Sun Bright LED for expert guidance and solutions to meet these standards effectively.