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Local Law 84 & 133

What are Local Laws 84 and 133

Local Law 84 is a part of New York City’s effort to reduce the carbon intensity of buildings in the city. This law, passed in 2009, originally required buildings larger than 50,000 sq. ft. to benchmark their energy and water usage. Local Law 133 expanded the law to cover buildings larger than 25,000 sq. ft. Benchmarking is a process of measuring energy and water usage and having it compared to other buildings, thus producing an energy intensity rating.

Importance of accurate Energy Benchmarking

Benchmarking goes beyond compliance—it helps building owners understand energy performance, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability. Tracking energy use reveals inefficiencies, lowers utility expenses, and boosts property value. More importantly, consistent benchmarking provides a clear energy performance history, making it easier to plan for Local Law 97 and avoid future penalties.
Who needs to comply:
Most buildings in New York City larger than 25,000 sq. ft.
Deadline:
Filings required by May 1 every year.
Fines:
Failure to submit the annual Benchmarking report by May 1st incurs a $500 fine, with additional $500 fines each quarter, up to a $2,000 maximum per year.

NYC Local Law 84/133 – Benchmarking for Energy Efficiency

Overview of NYC’s Energy Benchmarking Law

The NYC energy benchmarking law, Local Law 84/133, mandates annual energy use monitoring for buildings meeting specific size criteria. This requirement applies to both residential and commercial properties. The purpose of this law is to provide transparency regarding energy consumption. By making this information publicly available, the city encourages property owners to implement energy efficiency improvements. This initiative supports New York City's environmental goals.

Why Benchmarking Matters for NYC Buildings

Benchmarking under Local Law 84/133 NYC provides multiple advantages. It allows property owners to identify energy inefficiencies and areas for improvement and compare their building’s energy performance against similar properties. It helps to increase property value and tenant appeal through energy-efficient upgrades. Benchmarking helps with Local Law 84/133 compliance requirements and supports NYC’s broader sustainability initiatives, including reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2050.
Benchmarking under Local Law 84/133 also plays an important role in compliance with Local Law 97, which sets strict carbon emission limits for buildings starting in 2024. Benchmarking provides the necessary data on energy consumption and emissions, which helps property owners understand their current carbon footprint. By identifying inefficiencies through benchmarking, building owners can do upgrades to reduce emissions and stay within Local Law 97 limits.

Local Law 84/133 Compliance Requirements

To meet Local Law 84/133 compliance, owners will need to collect their energy and water usage data. Then, they must report it every year.
If you fail to do it, it will result in fines. This makes it essential for property owners to follow the Local Law 84/133 compliance solutions available.

Which Buildings Must Comply?

The Local Law 84/133 covered buildings list includes:

  • -Any single building over twenty-five thousand square feet
  • -Two or more buildings on the same tax lot exceeding one lac square feet
  • -Two or more condominium buildings governed by the same board exceeding one lac square feet
  • -NYC-owned buildings that meet the above criteria
Annual Reporting Deadlines & Submission Process

The deadline for Local Law 84/133 compliance is May 1 of each year. Building owners must:

  1. Gather energy and water usage data for the previous calendar year
  2. Enter the data into the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
  3. Submit the report to the NYC Department of Buildings before the deadline

Buildings that fail to submit their reports on time face penalties, starting at $500 per quarter, with a maximum annual fine of $2,000.

How to Benchmark Your Building's Energy Use

Benchmarking under Local Law 84/133 New York City can be a straightforward process with the right approach. Following a structured method ensures compliance and minimizes the risk of violations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Compliance

  1. Determine if Your Building Qualifies: Check the Local Law 84/133 Covered Buildings List to see if your property meets the size criteria.
  2. Collect Utility Data: Gather data on electricity, gas, and water usage for the whole year.
  3. Use EPA’s Tool: Enter your building’s data into the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
  4. Verify & Submit Data: Double-check accuracy before submitting the report to NYC.
  5. Display the Energy Label: Post your energy efficiency score visibly within the building.
Tools & Resources for LL84 Benchmarking

For property owners aiming to meet LL84 benchmarking requirements, several resources are available to simplify the process:

  • -ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager: This is the designated platform for inputting and submitting benchmarking data.
  • -NYC LL84 Compliance Consulting Services: These professional services offer assistance to ensure accurate reporting.
  • -Automated Data Collection Software: This software reduces manual errors and makes data management simple.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with Local Law 84/133

Here are the fines you will have to pay if you do not follow the rules:

  • -$500 per quarter for late filings. The maximum amount is $2,000 per year
  • -Additional $1,250 fines for failing to display energy ratings
  • -Continued non-compliance can lead to further penalties and enforcement actions
Benefits of Local Law 84/133 Compliance

Compliance with Local Law 84/133 Benchmarking benefits building owners and NYC as a whole:

  • -Cost Savings: Identifying inefficiencies helps reduce energy costs
  • -Higher Property Value: Energy-efficient buildings attract tenants and investors
  • -Regulatory Compliance: Avoid fines and legal issues
  • -Sustainability Leadership: Contribute to NYC’s environmental goals
Local Law 84/133 Consultant Services – How We Can Help

Understanding Local Law 84/133 compliance can seem difficult, but with expert guidance, the process can be simplified.
Our Local Law 84/133 compliance consulting solutions will make sure your building remains compliant.

Expert Assistance for Compliance & Reporting

Our Local Law 84/133 compliance consulting services provide:

  • -Complete benchmarking assistance
  • -Error detection and correction
  • -Customized energy performance strategies
Avoiding Fines & Improving Energy Performance

By choosing our Local Law 84/133 compliance consulting services, property owners can:

  • -Avoid penalties by ensuring timely submissions
  • -Improve their building’s energy score with targeted efficiency measures
  • -Receive ongoing support for long-term compliance and sustainability

FAQs About Local Law 84/133

How Do I Submit My Energy Benchmarking Report?

Use the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to input data and submit your report before May 1.

You will receive a $500 fine per quarter, up to $2,000 per year. Additional penalties apply for failing to display energy labels.

Buildings over twenty-five thousand square feet, multiple buildings on the same lot exceeding one lac square feet, and city-owned properties.

Fines start at $500 per quarter for late filings. The maximum amount is $2,000 (annually).

If you miss the May 1 deadline, a $500 fine is issued every quarter until compliance.

Fines must be paid, and compliance must be ensured for future deadlines. There is no way to retroactively correct missed filings.

We can help

With over a decade of experience in building energy management, benchmarking and compliance, The Cotocon Group with our team of engineers, architects, planners and consultants can help with Local Laws 84 and 133 compliance. Get in touch with us today so that you can comply, avoid fines, save money and run your building efficiently.

Contact us (212) -889 6566
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