Benchmarking Information and Resources
Provided by the NYC Mayor's Office of Long Term Planning + Sustainability

1. Date for Penalties:  While compliance with Benchmarking is due on May 1, the City will accept the 2010 Benchmarking Compliance Report up to August 1, 2011 without the issuance of any penalty.

2. Benchmarking Hotline:  A hotline is available to answer general benchmarking questions and the use of Portfolio Manager.  It can be accessed Monday through Friday, 10:00am-4:00pm, by dialing 311.  This resource has been made available through a partnership between The City University of New York (CUNY), New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), and the City of New York. 

3. Benchmarking Training:  The Association for Energy Affordability is offering in person training on the Portfolio Manager tool.  The training also covers how to comply with Local Law 84.  For class dates and to register visit their website: http://www.aeanyc.org/site/c.dhJJJTOzFoH/b.6441573/k.5FCE/Benchmarking_Training.htm

4. Updates on the City’s Website:  Please regularly visit the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan website for more information and continual updates on Local Law 84: www.nyc.gov/GGBP

5. Presentations on the Greener, Greater Buildings Plan: The Urban Green Council is providing free presentations on New York’s four new energy efficiency laws. To book a presentation, go to: http://www.urbangreencouncil.org/education/ggbp-education/

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Energy Benchmarking Grace Period
Issued Until August 1st

At the NYC Dept. of Buildings hearing on proposed rule amendments to Local Law 84, held on March 21, 2011, there were numerous requests for an extension of the energy benchmarking deadline of May 1, 2011. The city has responded favorably to those requests.

While the official deadline is still May 1, the city is allowing a three-month grace period before it will issue violations for non-compliance.

However, experts advise buildings not to put off their compliance efforts:

1. Apply for rebates and subsidies now, while they last.
2. Score high, to bypass energy audits and retro-commissioning later.
3. Know your score sooner, to avoid backlogs and to give your building an edge in the marketplace.