As New York City continues its commitment to environmental sustainability, building owners face the imperative of complying with Local Law 87. Designed to enhance energy efficiency, this legislation mandates energy audit and retro-commissioning measures for covered buildings. In this post, we provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to navigate compliance.
Understanding Local Law 87
Local Law 87, enacted in 2009, mandates energy efficiency assessments for buildings over 50,000 square feet, requiring owners to conduct energy audits and retro-commissioning every ten years. Compliance with these requirements serves as a strategic move toward a more sustainable and cost-effective operation, and helps build a path toward decarbonization in preparation for Local Law 97. Here we outline a series of basic steps to become compliant.
1. Identify Covered Buildings
Determine whether your building falls under the purview of Local Law 87. Covered buildings include those over 50,000 square feet or with multiple buildings on a single tax lot totaling 100,000 square feet or more.
2. Energy Audit
Initiate an energy audit, a critical step in compliance. This comprehensive assessment evaluates your building’s energy usage and identifies opportunities for improvement. Engage qualified professionals to conduct the audit, ensuring compliance with Local Law 87 standards.
3. Retro-Commissioning
Following the energy audit, undertake retro-commissioning activities. This process involves optimizing existing building systems to operate more efficiently. It includes the review and adjustment of equipment, systems, and processes to improve overall performance. Our team at Big Shine Energy consists of certified energy auditors and certified building commissioning professionals who have helped clients comply with their compliance requirements.
4. Compliance Filing
Prepare and submit the Energy Efficiency Report (EER) detailing the findings of the energy audit and retro-commissioning. This filing must be submitted to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) every ten years.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Be aware of the potential penalties for non-compliance. Failure to adhere to Local Law 87 requirements may result in fines, violations, and possible legal actions. Proactive compliance not only avoids penalties but also positions your building as a leader in energy efficiency.
Navigating compliance with Local Law 87 is a journey toward a more sustainable and efficient future. By adhering to the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging the support of industry experts, building owners can not only meet regulatory requirements but also unlock the long-term benefits of enhanced energy efficiency. At Big Shine Worldwide, we are dedicated to helping you navigate this path seamlessly, ensuring your building thrives in the era of sustainable operations.
