If you’re planning an energy efficiency project in New York, time is officially running out.
Starting January 1, 2026, New York’s commercial and industrial (C&I) energy efficiency programs will evolve to support statewide electrification and weatherization goals.
That means some traditional efficiency measures, like certain lighting and equipment upgrades, may no longer qualify for incentives after 2025.
For Upstate New York businesses, National Grid currently offers significant financial incentives across a wide range of upgrades; many of which can cover up to 100% of total project costs when bonuses and stackable measures are applied.
But these opportunities are changing soon.
What’s the Bonus?
Through the Shine Bright 25 in ’25 program, you can stack an additional 25% incentive onto any qualifying lighting project. That includes:
- Prescriptive lighting
- Custom lighting
- Lighting Express fast-track upgrades
- Illuminating Excellence for new construction/renovation projects
Key Deadlines
Secure 2025 Incentive Levels
If your electric or natural gas project will begin in 2025 and wrap up in 2026, meeting the deadlines below is essential to lock in 2025 incentive rates:
By December 31, 2025
- Submit a signed Customer Report (electric) or Offer Letter (gas) to National Grid.
- This confirms your commitment to proceed and ensures eligibility for current incentive levels.
By October 31, 2026
- Complete all project installations.
- Ensure all measures are operational and all required signatures submitted.
By December 15, 2026
- Submit final documentation, including paid invoices for labor and materials, and complete a post-inspection (if required).
Note: Deadlines are firm. Projects that miss these milestones will be re-evaluated under the 2026 program structure, where incentive amounts may be significantly reduced or eliminated entirely.
How Much Can Clients Actually Get?
Here’s a peek at current prescriptive incentive rates — before the bonus is applied:
| Fixture Type | Incentive per DLC Standard Fixture | Incentive per DLC Premium Fixture |
|---|---|---|
| LED Interior 1×4, 2×2 and 2×4 Luminaires and Retrofit Kits | $10 – $30 | $15-40 |
| LED Direct Linear Ambient Fixtures | $15 | $20 |
| LED Display Case Fixtures: Includes Cooler, Freezer or Refrigerated Shelving Unit | $30-$40 | $35-$50 |
| LED Interior High and Low Bay Fixtures and Retrofit Kits | $60-$180 | $70-$200 |
| LED Exterior Garage and Canopy Fixtures and Retrofit Kits | $100-$150 | $110-$160 |
| LED Bi-Level Stairwell and Corridor Fixtures | $45 | $55 |
| LED Exterior Wall/Pole/Arm Mounted Area and Flood Luminaires and Retrofit Kits | $25-$265 | $35-$275 |
| Control (Standalone and Networked) | Incentive |
|---|---|
| Remote Ceiling/Wall Mounted Occupancy and/or Daylight Harvesting Sensor | $10 |
| Bi-Level Occupancy Dimming | $25 |
| Wall Switch Occupancy or Vacancy Sensor | $8 |
| Integral Occupancy and/or Daylight Sensor for Interior Luminaires | $20 |
| Luminaire Level Lighting Control (LLLC, Integrated) and Networked Lighting Control Systems | $30 |
Custom incentives pay $0.25 per kWh saved, capped at 65% of total installed cost — making complex or large-scale upgrades more feasible than ever.
Fast Track Your Project with PEC
Our team can handle:
- Pre-approval paperwork
- Lighting audits and fixture counts
- Control system design (including LLLC)
- Timeline and budget management
- Turnkey installation + final incentive submission
