What is Local Law 97?
Local Law 97 is a key component of New York City’s Climate Mobilization Act, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from large buildings. It sets strict carbon emissions limits for buildings over 25,000 square feet, with deadlines starting in 2024. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines, driving a push for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Who is impacted by Local Law 97?
Local Law 97 impacts owners of large buildings in New York City, including the following. These properties must meet reporting and carbon emissions limits or face penalties:
- Buildings over 25,000 square feet
- Buildings on the same tax lot with a combined area exceeding 50,000 square feet
- Condominium buildings governed by the same board that collectively exceed 50,000 square feet
How do I comply with Local Law 97?
In order to comply with Local Law 97, designated building owners must:
- Assess current building performance with a carbon emissions audit in order to benchmark
- Submit regular emissions reporting that is certified by a Registered Design Professional, such as Ecosave
- Implement building system and energy efficiency upgrades, such as upgrading HVAC or lighting, to decrease carbon emissions.
Key Compliance Dates for LL97
There are three main compliance periods for Local Law 97 that building owners should be mindful of. 2024 marked the beginning of the first compliance period, which continues through 2029. The initial phase establishes baseline emission limits targeting the most carbon-intensive buildings. These limits will affect approximately 20% of buildings covered by the law.
Subsequent compliance periods will become stricter and building owners will need to be proactive in order to address stringent guidelines and avoid future penalties.
- May 1, 2025: First compliance report due – reports must be certified by third party parties
- 2030: 40% reduction in building emissions required
- 2050: 80% reduction to meet city’s goal of carbon neutrality
What happens if I don’t comply with LL97 guidelines?
Building owners who fail to comply with Local Law 97 face significant financial penalties. Fines are calculated based on the amount of carbon emissions exceeding the building’s limit, at a rate of $268 per metric ton. Additional fines may apply for failing to file required emissions reports. Non-compliance also risks reputational damage and missed opportunities for long-term energy savings.
- Non-compliant buildings face annual fines of $268 per metric ton of emissions exceeding their prescribed limit
- Building owners could face substantial penalties if they fail to meet requirements or file reports
How Ecosave can support LL97 compliance?
Ecosave can help building owners comply with Local Law 97 by offering tailored energy efficiency solutions and third-party emissions reporting.
- Emissions reporting with EcosaveWatch: Ecosave is certified as a third party vendor
- Reduce carbon emissions with energy efficiency projects: starting with an energy audit, Ecosave helps clients reduce carbon emissions and energy costs by up to 50%.
Questions about Local Law 97 or ready to address compliance needs? Contact our team.
Additional New York Legislation
- Local Law 88: As part of New York City’s Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, Local Law 88 requires large buildings to upgrade lighting systems to meet energy code standards and install tenant sub-meters for individual energy monitoring. Compliance deadlines include completing upgrades by January 1, 2025, to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
- Local Law 87: Requires large buildings to undergo periodic energy audits and retro-commissioning every 10 years. These assessments identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Compliance involves submitting an Energy Efficiency Report (EER) to the city by the designated deadline.