The New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC) has instituted strict requirements to govern electrical submetering in a residential building (including cooperatives, condominiums, and rental facilities).
The rules affect how submeterers (building owners, property management companies, or third-party energy resellers) bill for electricity use — protecting residents while promoting energy conservation.
For owners, a common question is whether they can profit from submetering residential tenants. The rules are clear. Landlords can charge residents up to, but not more than, the direct metered utility rate for electricity. The goal is to reduce electricity use by making those consuming it directly responsible for paying for it.
NYPSC Approved Meters
Multi-unit residential building owners looking to submeter residential tenants in New York State must install and use New York Public Service Commission (NYPSC) listed submeters. A list of approved electrical submeters can be found on NYPSC's website.
