“Mastering NYC LL84 Compliance: Your Ultimate Guide to Benchmarking Reports”

Introduction

New York City not only boasts of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Statue of Liberty but also considered as a green city. To maintain its green status, the NYC government has passed several laws and regulations to reduce energy consumption in buildings. One such regulation is Local Law 84 (LL84) that makes building owners and managers submit benchmarking reports annually. But, what is LL84? How does benchmarking work? Why is it important? How can one master LL84 compliance? This ultimate guide will answer these questions and provide a complete guide to mastering NYC LL84 compliance.

Section 1: Understanding NYC LL84 Compliance

New York City passed LL84 in 2009, which required owners of buildings with more than 50,000 square feet of space to report annual energy and water consumption data of their buildings. This law is part of New York’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency in buildings. Since then, the law has expanded to include buildings as small as 25,000 square feet.

Section 2: What is Benchmarking?

Benchmarking is the process of comparing the energy use of your building with similar buildings to identify areas of improvement. It allows building owners to see how their building’s energy use compares to others and how they can improve their efficiency. Benchmarking helps owners identify opportunities to improve their building’s energy performance, reduce costs, and improve overall sustainability.

Section 3: Why is Benchmarking Important?

Benchmarking is an essential tool that helps building owners and managers to:

• Identify areas of improvement, energy savings, and cost savings
• Reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
• Increase building efficiency and performance
• Comply with local and national regulations
• Improve the market value of the building

Section 4: How to Conduct Benchmarking

To conduct benchmarking, you need to follow these three simple steps:

1. Collect Energy Consumption Data: Collect energy data for the last 12 months, including electricity, gas, and oil consumption.
2. Upload Data to Portfolio Manager: Use the EPA’s Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool to input your energy data and compare it with other similar buildings.
3. Submit Data and Compliance Report: After reviewing your data, submit it to the City of New York Department of Buildings (DOB) and receive a benchmarking report indicating your building’s energy performance and any potential areas for improvement.

Section 5: Tips for Mastering NYC LL84 Compliance

Here are some tips to help you master LL84 compliance:

• Start Early: Begin collecting energy consumption data as early as possible to avoid last-minute rush and to ensure data accuracy.
• Use Online Tools: Use Portfolio Manager to collect and submit your data, as it is the most convenient tool available.
• Get Professional Help: It is always advisable to consult a professional energy auditor or consultant to identify areas of improvement and assess the building’s energy performance.
• Stay Up-to-Date with Regulations: Keep updated with any changes to regulations and be aware of any upcoming deadlines.
• Take Action: Use the benchmarking report to identify potential areas of improvement and take action to improve energy efficiency in your building.

Section 6: FAQs

Q1. What types of buildings are covered under LL84 compliance?
A1. Buildings in New York City that are 25,000 square feet or larger must comply with LL84 regulations.

Q2. What is the deadline for submitting benchmarking reports?
A2. The deadline for submitting benchmarking reports is May 1st of every year.

Q3. How can I collect energy consumption data?
A3. Energy consumption data can be collected from utility bills, meters, or sub-meters.

Q4. What is the Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool?
A4. The Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool is an online tool provided by the EPA that helps building owners and managers track their energy consumption and benchmark their building’s energy performance.

Q5. Why is my benchmarking report important?
A5. Your benchmarking report helps you identify areas of improvement, energy savings, and cost savings while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Q6. What consequences can a non-compliant building owner or manager face?
A6. A non-compliant building owner or manager can receive a penalty of up to $5000.

Q7. Can I get professional help for benchmarking?
A7. Yes, you can hire a professional energy auditor or consultant to help you with benchmarking.

Section 7: Conclusion

LL84 compliance is essential for building owners and managers in New York City. Benchmarking helps to reduce energy consumption, costs and comply with the law. Therefore, mastering NYC LL84 compliance is crucial. We have learned that benchmarking is the process of comparing energy use, and it helps identify areas of improvement. We have discovered the tips for mastering LL84 compliance, timeline, benefits, and consequences of non-compliance. It is always advisable to consult a professional energy auditor or consultant to ensure compliance with the law.

Section 8: Call-to-Action

Are you a building owner or manager in New York City? Are you unsure about LL84 compliance? Contact us to get professional help and ensure your building is compliant with local laws. We can help you conduct benchmarking, identify areas for improvement, and take action to reduce energy consumption and costs.