New York City has implemented Local Law 97 to combat greenhouse gas emissions from buildings. Energy audits and retro-commissioning are key components of this groundbreaking legislation, helping building owners identify energy-saving opportunities and achieve compliance with the law. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of energy audits and retro-commissioning as the building blocks of NYC Local Law 97 compliance.

Understanding NYC Local Law 97

Enacted in 2019, NYC Local Law 97 sets ambitious carbon emissions limits for buildings larger than 25,000 square feet. The law aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, compared to 2005 levels. Building owners are required to meet specific emissions intensity limits based on their occupancy type. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties and fines.

The Role of Energy Audits

Energy audits play a crucial role in achieving Local Law 97 compliance. An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of a building’s energy usage, systems, and operations. The purpose of an audit is to identify inefficiencies, areas of improvement, and potential energy-saving measures. In the context of Local Law 97, energy audits enable building owners to evaluate their current energy performance, benchmark it against the established emissions limits, and develop strategies to meet or exceed those targets.

During an energy audit, a team of professionals assesses various aspects of the building, including insulation, lighting systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), electrical systems, and water usage. The audit may include a detailed analysis of energy bills, on-site inspections, and the use of advanced technologies, such as thermal imaging and data loggers. Based on the findings, the auditors provide recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades, operational improvements, and potential renewable energy solutions.

The Importance of Retro-Commissioning

Retro-commissioning is another critical component of Local Law 97 compliance. It involves the systematic examination and optimization of a building’s existing systems to ensure they operate efficiently. Retro-commissioning is particularly valuable for older buildings that may have outdated equipment or suboptimal performance.

During the retro-commissioning process, experts review and test various systems, including HVAC, lighting controls, and building automation systems. They identify and address issues such as malfunctioning sensors, incorrect settings, or substandard equipment maintenance. By fine-tuning the systems and resolving inefficiencies, retro-commissioning helps improve overall energy performance, reduces waste, and enhances occupant comfort.

Achieving Compliance and Beyond

Energy audits and retro-commissioning provide building owners with a roadmap to Local Law 97 compliance. Armed with the audit results and retro-commissioning recommendations, owners can implement energy-saving measures and system improvements to meet the emission limits set by the law. This may include upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems, installing energy-efficient lighting, improving insulation, implementing demand response strategies, and adopting renewable energy sources like solar panels.

Beyond compliance, energy audits and retro-commissioning offer long-term benefits for building owners. By optimizing energy usage and reducing operational costs, building owners can enhance their financial performance, increase asset value, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Additionally, energy-efficient buildings often provide better indoor air quality, improved occupant comfort, and increased productivity.

Every 10 years, NYC Building owners with buildings that are 50,000 square feet or larger have to comply with NYC Local Law 87 that include conducting and Energy Audit and a Retro-Commissioning. You will also be ensuring your compliance with this law.

Conclusion

NYC Local Law 97 represents a significant step toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. Energy audits and retro-commissioning are fundamental elements in achieving compliance with this groundbreaking legislation. By conducting energy audits and implementing retro-commissioning measures, building owners can identify energy-saving opportunities, optimize building systems, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to a greener New York City. Investing in energy audits and retro-commissioning is not only a legal requirement but also a strategic decision that brings economic, environmental, and social benefits to building owners and occupants alike.