Updated GSA Requirements For Lighting In Federal Buildings

In October, 2021, the GSA published updated rules for the construction and renovation of federal buildings (excluding military buildings). The “P100” is a 316-page document outlining construction and renovation guidelines.

Last year’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the bi-partisan infrastructure law, authorized funding to significantly increase both new construction and renovations of federal buildings. Here are some of the new requirements that impact lighting:

• The use of DLC-approved products to secure all available utility rebates for the GSA
• The use of domestic construction materials (Buy American Act) for construction contracts performed in the United States (excepting waivers granted or per FAR 25.2)
• A Gold rating in LEED certification for new construction and major renovations
• Overall building energy efficiency that’s at least 30% higher than ASHRAE 90.1 E.C.L
• Mandatory daylighting wherever possible

Lighting controls also figure prominently: “The GSA intends to lead the Govt. in owning and operating Smart Buildings.” An article by CREE Lighting provides additional details on changes involving: controls, exterior lighting, parking structures, and LED retrofits. Read the full article here.

David Shiller

David Shiller is the Publisher of LightNOW, and Senior Business Development Consultant at Capacity Consulting, a North American consulting firm providing business development services to advanced lighting manufacturers. The ALA awarded David the Pillar of the Industry Award. David has been co-chair of the ALA’s Engineering Committee since 2010. David established MaxLite’s OEM component sales into a multi-million dollar division. He invented GU24 lamps while leading ENERGY STAR lighting programs for the US EPA. David has been published in leading lighting publications, including LD+A, enLIGHTenment Magazine, LEDs Magazine, and more.

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