Complying with NYC Local Law 87 (LL87) can be a complex and daunting task for many building owners and managers. The law requires regular energy audits and retro-commissioning measures for buildings over 50,000 square feet, with the goal of improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. At The Cotocon Group, we specialize in sustainability consulting services, and we’ve helped numerous clients navigate the intricacies of LL87 compliance. Here, we share expert tips to ensure a smooth compliance process.
Understanding NYC Local Law 87
Before diving into the tips, it’s crucial to understand what Local Law 87 entails. Enacted as part of the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, LL87 mandates that covered buildings undergo energy audits and retro-commissioning every ten years. The primary objectives are to identify energy conservation measures (ECMs) and ensure building systems are operating efficiently.
Key Components of LL87 Compliance
- Energy Audits: Comprehensive assessments of a building’s energy use to identify opportunities for energy savings.
- Retro-Commissioning: A process to ensure building systems are performing as intended and to correct operational inefficiencies.
- Reporting: Submission of an Energy Efficiency Report (EER) to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB), summarizing the findings from the energy audit and retro-commissioning.
Expert Tips for LL87 Compliance
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Early Planning: One of the most critical steps in the LL87 compliance process is to start early. Buildings have a specific year by which they must comply, based on the last digit of their tax block number. It’s advisable to begin planning at least two years before your compliance deadline. Early planning allows ample time for scheduling audits, completing retro-commissioning tasks, and addressing any unexpected issues.
Develop a Timeline: Create a detailed timeline that outlines key milestones and deadlines. Include dates for selecting a consultant, conducting the energy audit, performing retro-commissioning measures, and submitting the EER. This timeline will help keep your project on track and ensure all tasks are completed within the required timeframe.
2. Choose the Right Local Law 87 Consultant Service
Experience and Expertise: Selecting a qualified consultant is paramount to a smooth LL87 compliance process. Look for firms with extensive experience in conducting energy audits and retro-commissioning for buildings similar to yours. The Cotocon Group, for example, has a proven track record in helping clients meet LL87 requirements efficiently.
References and Reviews: Request references from potential consultants and read reviews from past clients. This will provide insights into the consultant’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of work.
Certifications and Qualifications: Ensure your chosen consultant has the necessary certifications and qualifications, such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or Professional Engineer (PE) credentials. These qualifications demonstrate a high level of expertise and commitment to industry standards.
3. Conduct a Thorough Pre-Audit Assessment
Pre-Audit Inspection: Before the official energy audit, conduct a preliminary inspection of your building systems. Identify any obvious issues or inefficiencies that can be addressed beforehand. This step can streamline the audit process and potentially reduce the scope of work required during retro-commissioning.
Gather Documentation: Compile all relevant documentation, such as past energy bills, equipment manuals, maintenance records, and previous audit reports. Providing comprehensive documentation to your consultant will facilitate a more accurate and efficient audit.
4. Engage Building Staff and Stakeholders
Communication and Training: Involve building staff and stakeholders in the LL87 compliance process. Clearly communicate the objectives and benefits of the energy audit and retro-commissioning. Provide training sessions to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
Feedback and Collaboration: Encourage feedback from building staff and tenants. Their firsthand experience and knowledge of the building’s operations can be invaluable in identifying areas for improvement and ensuring successful implementation of ECMs.
5. Focus on High-Impact Energy Conservation Measures
Prioritize ECMs: During the energy audit, prioritize ECMs that offer the highest energy savings and quickest payback periods. Implementing these measures can significantly improve your building’s energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis for each recommended ECM. Consider factors such as initial investment, potential energy savings, and long-term benefits. This analysis will help you make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.
6. Implement Retro-Commissioning Measures Promptly
Timely Execution: Once the energy audit is complete, promptly implement the recommended retro-commissioning measures. Delaying implementation can lead to increased costs and missed opportunities for energy savings.
Monitor and Verify: After implementing ECMs, monitor their performance to ensure they deliver the expected energy savings. Conduct verification tests to confirm that building systems are operating as intended and make adjustments as needed.
7. Prepare and Submit a Comprehensive EER
Accurate Documentation: When preparing the Energy Efficiency Report, ensure all findings from the energy audit and retro-commissioning are accurately documented. The EER must include details of the ECMs implemented, energy savings achieved, and any outstanding issues.
Review and Approval: Have your EER reviewed by a qualified professional before submission. This step can help identify any errors or omissions and increase the likelihood of approval by the NYC DOB.
8. Maintain Ongoing Compliance and Continuous Improvement
Regular Maintenance: LL87 compliance is not a one-time effort. Maintain regular maintenance schedules for all building systems to ensure continued efficiency and performance.
Future Planning: Start planning for the next compliance cycle well in advance. Continuously monitor energy usage and explore new ECMs to stay ahead of regulatory requirements and improve sustainability.
The Cotocon Group: Your Partner in LL87 Compliance
At The Cotocon Group, we understand the challenges and complexities of LL87 compliance. Our sustainability consulting services are designed to guide you through every step of the process, from initial planning to final report submission. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we can help you achieve your energy efficiency goals and ensure a smooth, hassle-free compliance experience.
Why Choose The Cotocon Group?
Tailored Solutions: We recognize that every building is unique. Our team provides customized solutions that address the specific needs and characteristics of your property.
Comprehensive Services: Our services encompass all aspects of LL87 compliance, including energy audits, retro-commissioning, and EER preparation. We offer end-to-end support to simplify the process for you.
Expert Team: Our consultants are highly qualified and experienced professionals with a deep understanding of NYC Local Law 87 and building energy systems. We stay updated on the latest industry trends and regulatory changes to ensure your compliance.
Proven Track Record: We have successfully helped numerous clients achieve LL87 compliance, resulting in significant energy savings and improved building performance. Our satisfied clients are a testament to our expertise and dedication.
Sustainability Commitment: Beyond compliance, we are committed to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. Our goal is to help you create a greener, more efficient building that benefits both the environment and your bottom line.
Conclusion
Navigating the LL87 compliance process can be challenging, but with the right approach and expert guidance, it can also be an opportunity to enhance your building’s energy efficiency and sustainability. By starting early, choosing the right consultant, and focusing on high-impact measures, you can ensure a smooth and successful compliance experience. The Cotocon Group is here to support you every step of the way, providing the expertise and tailored solutions needed to meet NYC Local Law 87 requirements and achieve your energy efficiency goals.
For more information on how The Cotocon Group can assist with your LL87 compliance, please contact us today. Our team is ready to help you achieve a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
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