In 2019, New York City introduced the NYC LL97 in an attempt to cut down emissions. This law came into effect after buildings were recognized as the key culprit behind emitting greenhouse gasses all over the city. It concerns all establishments with an area greater than 25,000 square feet.
Around 50,000 properties all over the city come under the influence of this law. Therefore, it can be considered a highly ambitious policy undertaken by NYC. Let’s take a deep dive into this informative guide to understand more about this law and how it is on the right path to creating a greener future for the city.
Goals and Implications
Carbon intensity lies at the core of LL97. Building size and usage come into account while determining emission limits. With time, these numbers are going to become stricter.
The initial attempt is to bring down GHG emissions by 40% within 30%. The overarching goal is to make 80% reduction possible by 2050. Property owners have to embrace renewable power sources and follow energy efficiency measures to get closer to these targets.
The state understands that encouraging establishments to undertake environment-friendly initiatives to comply with LL97 is not easy. That’s why NYC incentivizes building owners to use renewable energy systems and work on renovations to reduce power usage. It facilitates increased sustainability by ensuring that older buildings are retrofitted.
Additionally, the state offers financial and technical aid for complying with NYC Local Law 97. By helping building owners in disadvantaged communities more, this legal policy attempts to maintain equity. One unique type of aid available is the C-PACE, providing the opportunity to make loan payments over the duration of the asset.
Also Read: Understanding Green Building Regulations
Carbon Caps for Different Establishment Types
LL97 is about determining the per-square-foot emission limits of properties on the basis of their size, type, and compliance year. Currently, the legal policy has different carbon caps for 60 categories, according to the Energy Star Portfolio Manager. The limits for every category are specified for five compliance periods.
The limit goes down with each compliance period. Therefore, buildings are expected to emit less energy with the passage of time.
The carbon footprint of an establishment can be based on its energy usage across different fuel types. Every type comes with a different carbon coefficient or a specified carbon content as per NYC Local Law 97. Determining the annual emissions requires multiplying the energy usage for each fuel type with its respective carbon coefficient.
In terms of electricity usage, the emissions will go down with the grid becoming cleaner over time. Under LL97, the assigned electric power carbon coefficient for 2030 will be 50% cleaner than that for 2024. This cap goes pretty well with the attempt to deploy renewable power sources across the state.
Some properties still rely on fossil fuels to meet their energy requirements. Naturally, these traditional sources are associated with higher carbon emissions. But adhering to this particular law will enable the electrification of building systems to reduce greenhouse gasses.
Also Read: Retrofitting Your Building to Comply with NYC Local Law 97
How Will Compliance Be Possible?
Property owners can focus on undertaking power-efficiency initiatives to adhere to NYC Local Law 97. A switch to lower-carbon fuels can be a valuable step in meeting the requirements of the law. Another method is to leverage credits from GHG reduction and renewable energy generation projects. Installing solar panels can be an efficient measure of meeting the policy targets.
Detailed Steps for Compliance
The basic steps to comply with the law include:
- Checking the Building Size: Compliance efforts should begin with assessing the size of your property. If your establishment meets the threshold for this legal mandate which is 25,000 sq.ft., you will have to understand the requirements thoroughly.
- Assessing Emissions: The next step is about understanding the current amount of GHGs emitted by your property. Without knowledge about the present quantity, you won’t be able to set realistic targets for reduction.
- Focus on Upgrades: You will have to figure out what improvements can help you meet the requirements. At times, installing more energy-efficient systems on your property is all you need to fulfill the stringent requirements of the legal policy.
- Obtain Financing: Installing upgrades can be expensive, and you might need financial assistance. Look for different options, including state, federal, city, and utility-based funding.
- Become Aware of DOB Rules: You should completely focus on understanding the DOB rule package to become familiar with enforcement mechanisms and compliance guidelines. It is necessary to have clear knowledge about the DOB regulations to avoid penalties.
- Implement Upgrades: Finding out areas of improvement isn’t enough. You will have to successfully install upgrades in your property to achieve the desired targets for reducing greenhouse gasses.
- Supervise GHG Release: After implementing upgrades, you must be constantly monitoring the new energy systems. This continued supervision will enable constant compliance and highlight other areas of improvement for you.
- Submit Annual Reports: You will have to provide detailed reports on a yearly basis to comply with LL97. This reporting is essential for tracking progress and maintaining transparency. The first report in this regard is due on 1st May, 2025.
- Remain Aware of Updates: NYC is introducing new changes to the law and other related policies. You need to remain aware of these changes to ensure that you continue to comply with the modified requirements and don’t have to bear the consequences of non-compliance.
Benefits of LL97 for New York City
As NYC is looking forward to welcoming sustainability in every nook and corner, NYC Local Law 97 promises a new dawn for its residents. With carbon caps, the legal policy will help improve the quality of air in the city and better public health. Therefore, the impact of climate change will be tackled efficiently.
The law will also encourage investments in cleaner technologies to foster a greener economy. Additionally, this regulation will also help fulfill NYC’s goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050. So, LL97 in NYC is an example of cities all over the globe trying to handle the crisis of global climate change.
Conclusion
Does this particular policy targeted to safeguard the environment apply to your establishment? If so, seek NYC Local Law 97 compliance consulting service from a professional. With extensive expertise and in-depth understanding, NYC LL97 Compliance Consultants can be a valuable ally for property owners. Get in touch right now!
FAQs:
Which properties need to comply with LL97?
LL97 concerns properties with an area of more than 25,000 square feet. But historic establishments and those with landmark status usually have special provisions for compliance.
What is the timeline for Local Law 97?
This particular legal policy in NYC comes with a phased compliance schedule. By beginning in 2024, LL97 attempts to decrease carbon limits significantly over time. Therefore, the law is expected to come with more stringent measures in the upcoming years.
Is any financial aid available to comply with LL97 requirements?
Building owners qualify for state, city, and federal financing options to comply with the requirements surrounding Local Law 97. Moreover, incentive programs are available for properties abiding by the regulations.