Summary of report
Multiple codes, including energy, fire, and electrical regulations, outline the requirements for lighting in industrial, commercial, and multifamily residential buildings in Minnesota.
Lighting must be controlled by ASHRAE 90.1-2019, the energy standard adopted into code in Minnesota, at the start of 2024. Compliance drives cost-effectiveness by improving building performance, reducing electric bills, and improving occupant comfort.
The Minnesota State Fire Code and Minnesota's electrical code consists of the National Electrical Code® (NEC) as published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and references the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code®, all of which require emergency lighting be provided and maintained to enable safe paths of egress for building occupants.
Lighting controls turn on lights where they are needed, when people require electric light in buildings including during loss of power, fires, and other emergencies, enabling safe egress. They also turn lights off or dim them to a low level when areas are vacant or where ample sunlight illuminates the space. When they are implemented correctly, codes ensure our buildings meet Minnesotan’s needs and reduce costly waste of resources.