NYC Green Laws
Buildings over 50,000 SF account for 45% of New York City’s energy consumption. NYC’s Greener Greater Building Plan, a core part of PlaNYC 2030, includes four new laws passed in December 2009 specifically to reduce energy use, and increase the energy efficiency of New York City’s existing buildings.
These laws make the energy code stricter; require installation of lighting upgrades and tenant meters in non-residential spaces; and require most buildings over 50,000 SF to undertake benchmarking and audits, and implement retro-commissioning measures. The plan will ultimately save New Yorkers $700 million in annual energy costs, create thousands of construction-related jobs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 5%, the largest single component of the citywide goal of 30%.
Meeting the requirements of these laws usually results in lower building operating expenses. The Cotocon Group’s team of engineers, architects and LEED APs are experienced in addressing all aspects of NYC’s Greener Greater Building Plan. Cotocon also advises its clients on strategic planning and taking advantage of financial incentives in implementing measures to comply with these laws.
These laws apply to New York City buildings have been rolled out one by one to make it easier for buildings to comply. We have listed them below in order of required compliance.
Greener, Greater Buildings Plan – Extended Summary
New York City Energy Code Local Law 85 (LL85)
Benchmarking – Local Law 84 (LL84)
Energy Audits and Retro-Commissioning – Local Law 87 (LL87)
Lighting Upgrades and Sub-Metering – Local Law 88 (LL88)
Greener, Greater Buildings Plan – One Page Matrix
