What is Local Law 87 Energy Audits & Retro-commissioning?

Posted on 4 April, 2023 by The Cotcon Group

Local Law 87 (LL87) is a regulation passed by the New York City Council in 2009 that requires all buildings over 50,000 square feet to undergo energy audits and retro-commissioning every 10 years.

An energy audit is an evaluation of a building's energy performance and the identification of potential energy-saving measures. It includes a review of the building's energy consumption patterns, building systems (such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and building envelope. The audit report provides recommendations for energy efficiency improvements that can be made to the building.

Retro-commissioning is the process of optimizing and improving the performance of existing building systems. It involves testing and adjusting building systems to ensure they are operating at their maximum efficiency. Retro-commissioning can include activities such as identifying and correcting equipment malfunctions, adjusting control systems, and improving maintenance procedures.

The LL87 energy audit and retro-commissioning requirements are intended to help building owners and managers identify energy-saving opportunities and reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The audits and retro-commissioning must be performed by qualified professionals and submitted to the New York City Department of Buildings for review and approval.