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Local Law 97 - Climate Mobilization Act

Matt F.
  • Updated

What is Local Law 97?

"Local Law 97 is a key piece of legislation that was passed as part of NYC’s Climate Mobilization Act. LL97 establishes and enforces stringent carbon emission limits for existing buildings, which account for roughly 70% of the total GHG emissions in NYC."

NYC Climate Mobilization Act and Local Law 97 - Steven Winter Associates, Inc.

To reach the city-wide goal of reducing total carbon emissions by 80% by 2050, buildings will need to meet specific emissions targets defined by their occupancy type. Owners that do not meet their targets will incur potentially substantial fines beginning in 2025.

Please note that Buildings subject to Local Law 84 will also be required to submit Carbon usage reports to the city.

How do I determine my Carbon Footprint?

Your carbon footprint is determined by your building's total energy usage, which includes building systems and tenant usage.

Examples of energy usage include - Natural Oil, Natural Gas, Electricity, Fuel Oils, and District Steam.

How do I lower my building's energy usage?

The city has provided an Operations & Maintenance Best Practices guide - A Guide to Achieving Operational Efficiency. You can find the guide attached to the bottom of this article or here.

Small operational changes can lead to energy savings; however, building owners should bring in a licensed consultant to conduct an audit for larger cuts to carbon emissions. The consultants will identify equipment (i.e., heating, lighting, and cooling systems) that should be replaced or upgraded.

Rent Regulated Housing - "Prescriptive" Options

  • Installing heating system sensors & boiler controls
  • Adjusting temperature setpoints for heat and hot water
  • Repairing all heating system leaks
  • Maintaining the heating system
  • Installing individual temperature controls on all radiators
  • Insulating all pipes for heating and/or hot water & steam.
  • Replacing or preparing all steam traps
  • Installing or upgrading steam system master venting
  • Upgrading lighting to comply with current standards
  • Weatherizing and air sealing
  • Installing times on exhaust fans
  • Installing radiant barriers behind all radiators

District Steam heat has also been found to reduce emission levels significantly.

It's important to note, each building is unique, so steps taken to reduce emissions at one property may not necessarily work for all properties. We recommend utilizing the city's educational resources for more information, or working with a consultant (like Steven Winter Associates) to help understand how your buildings can stay compliant.

How do I pay for these extensive upgrades for my building?

Please visit the city’s Retrofit Accelerator Program website. This a free program for building owners who need assistance updating their building's energy usage. Their efficiency advisors can help plan the sequence of work and explain financing options.

Along with Local Law 97, the City passed Local Law 96 - Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing. PACE loans fund energy efficiency and renewable energy project, and they are repaid through a building’s property tax bill.

NYC’s PACE program is sponsored by the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability (MOS) and administered by the New York City Energy Efficiency Corporation (NYCEEC) and the New York City Department of Finance. Read more about the PACE program, including eligibility and terms, on the NYCEEC website.

Climate Mobilization Act SiteCompli Webinar

Please see the attached Local Law 97 Checklist referenced in the above webinar.

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