Henson Architecture can help you prepare for Local Law 97 Compliance
In a 2020 interview with the New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Scott Henson highlighted Henson Architecture’s commitment to retrofitting existing buildings and minimizing their carbon footprints.
As we progress through 2024, retrofitting your building to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions is essential. Buildings account for over one-third of global energy use and in New York City buildings contribute to over two-thirds of all carbon emissions.
Henson Architecture is here to guide you through compliance with Local Law 97 (LL97), which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by 40% by 2030 and to Net Zero by 2050.
Understanding LL97 Compliance
The Climate Mobilization Act (CMA), which passed into law in 2019 by the NYC City Council, includes Local Law 97 (LL97), one of the most ambitious building emissions legislations globally to date. LL97 mandates that most buildings with a gross floor area larger than 25,000 gross square feet adhere to strict greenhouse gas emission limits, impacting over 50,000 buildings in the city. To avoid penalties, building owners must submit an annual emissions intensity report, prepared by a registered design professional, detailing the amount of energy the building used per square foot.
Measuring Carbon Emissions Under LL97
The greenhouse gas emissions released during a building’s operation, and emissions factors and limits are set based on building occupancy type. Local Law 97 (LL97) sets annual carbon emission caps, with fines for exceeding these limits.
Penalties and Fees
- $268 for each metric ton over the cap, and $0.50 per square foot per month for failing to file a report.
- Providing false information can incur penalties of up to $500,000.
Compliance with LL97 requires a comprehensive approach, including detailed engineering calculations and verification of greenhouse gas emissions. By embracing energy-efficient practices and investing in modern technologies, property owners can reduce financial risks and support a greener urban environment.
Lower Energy Costs and Avoid Fines
At Henson Architecture, we combine our passion for retrofitting historic buildings with sustainability initiatives. While preserving older buildings is inherently sustainable, enhancing their efficiency through deep energy retrofits ensures compliance with LL97. Owners can expect significant reductions in heating and cooling costs post-retrofit.
Are You Prepared?
Buildings that exceed their permitted carbon emissions in 2024 will be fined in 2025 and annually, and emissions limits will lower in 2030, so proactive measures are crucial. Our team can assess your building’s energy inefficiencies and create a tailored plan that fits your schedule and budget. We will also help you navigate state and federal incentives to meet your energy efficiency goals, optimizing your systems and maximizing your return on investment.
Collaborating with our trusted energy consultants, we will conduct a comprehensive energy analysis of your building systems, identifying sustainable solutions such as insulating, air sealing, HVAC optimization, electrical conversions and upgrades, lighting improvements, mechanical system enhancements, and window improvements.
Henson Architecture is Your Solution
Reducing operating emissions and improving energy efficiency are vital components of our decarbonization strategy. Compliance with LL97 doesn’t have to be daunting. Henson Architecture offers the tools and resources you need to meet LL97 requirements and lower your carbon footprint while being financially prudent. If you’re a building owner in NYC looking to cut emissions and avoid fines contact us today to learn how Henson Architecture can assist you.
