Vert Energy Group

Tag: carbon footprints

  • How Using Energy Benchmarking Can Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

    How Using Energy Benchmarking Can Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

    One of the most important global challenges of our day is climate change. The built environment, which includes office buildings and homes, contributes to carbon emissions. According to the World Economic Forum, about 33% of the world’s carbon emissions come from energy used to power buildings. Therefore, lowering energy use in buildings is essential for climate change mitigation.  

    Energy benchmarking is a useful strategy for lowering building energy use. Energy benchmarking is assessing a building’s energy efficiency and contrasting it with that of comparable structures. This procedure identifies chances to boost energy efficiency and points up areas that need improvement.  

    In this article, we will look at the advantages of energy benchmarking and how it can lower your carbon footprint. We will talk about the benefits, which range from cost savings and higher effectiveness to better building performance and increased sustainability. Additionally, we will look at a few of the typical difficulties with energy benchmarking and offer workable answers to them. You will have a good knowledge of the significance of energy benchmarking and how to successfully apply it in your building by the conclusion of this essay.

    1. Understanding Energy Benchmarking 

    Comparing a building’s energy performance to a standard or set of standards is a procedure known as Energy Benchmarking. The procedure entails monitoring the energy usage of a facility and looking for areas that might be improved. Here are some more specifics:   

    How Energy Benchmarking Works 

    Energy benchmarking involves collecting data on a building’s energy usage, including electricity, gas, and water usage. The data is then compared to a set of standards or benchmarks to determine the building’s energy performance. Some of the common benchmarks used for energy benchmarking include:

    Once the energy performance is determined, building owners and managers can identify opportunities for improvement and develop a plan to reduce energy consumption.

    Types of Energy Benchmarking 

    There are several types of energy benchmarking, including: 

    • Whole building benchmarking 
    • Portfolio benchmarking
    • Targeted benchmarking

    Whole building benchmarking involves comparing the energy performance of an entire building to a set of standards. Portfolio benchmarking compares the energy performance of a group of buildings, while targeted benchmarking focuses on specific areas or systems within a building.

    Importance of Energy Benchmarking 

    Energy benchmarking is important because it enables building owners and managers to make informed decisions about energy usage, reduce energy waste, and save money. By benchmarking energy usage, building owners can: 

    • Identify areas of improvement 
    • Set energy performance goals 
    • Prioritize energy efficiency upgrades 
    • Track progress and measure results 

    Overall, energy benchmarking is a powerful tool that can help building owners and managers reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

    2. How to Implement Energy Benchmarking 

    Energy Benchmarking - Common ChallengesEnergy benchmarking implementation calls for a systematic process that includes conducting energy audits, acquiring energy data, establishing performance targets, and pinpointing areas for improvement.  

    Conducting Energy Audits 

    Conducting an energy audit is the first step in implementing the energy benchmarking process. An energy audit involves evaluating a building’s energy use and identifying potential areas for improvement. The audit can be conducted by an energy consultant or performed in-house by building staff. 

    During an energy audit, the following steps are typically taken: 

    • Review of energy bills 
    • Walkthrough of the building to identify energy systems and usage 
    • Review of maintenance logs 
    • Interview with building staff to identify energy issues

    Gathering Energy Data 

    Gathering energy data is the second step in implementing the energy benchmarking process. Building owners and managers can gather energy data by: 

    • Collecting energy bills 
    • Installing sub-meters to track energy usage by the system or tenant
    • Implementing a building automation system to track energy usage in real-time

    The energy data should be collected regularly, such as monthly or quarterly, to ensure energy usage trends can be identified.

    Setting Performance Goals 

    Setting performance goals is the third step in implementing energy benchmarking. Performance goals should be based on industry standards and best practices. Some of the common performance goals include gaining either: 

    • Energy Star certification 
    • LEED certification 
    • Green Globes certification 

    The performance goals should be challenging yet achievable.

    Identifying Opportunities for Improvement 

    Identifying opportunities for improvement is the fourth step in implementing energy benchmarking. Building owners and managers can identify opportunities for improvement by: 

    • Analyzing energy data 
    • Conducting a cost-benefit analysis of potential upgrades 
    • Prioritizing upgrades based on cost and energy savings potential 

    Some of the areas for improvement include lighting, HVAC systems, and building envelopes. 

    3. Benefits of Energy Benchmarking 

    Energy benchmarking offers several benefits, including cost savings, increased efficiency, improved building performance, and enhanced sustainability. 

    Cost Savings 

    One of the most significant benefits of energy benchmarking is cost savings. By identifying areas for improvement and implementing energy efficiency upgrades, building owners and managers can reduce energy consumption and save money on energy costs. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), buildings that benchmark energy usage can save up to 7% annually on energy costs. 

    Increased Efficiency 

    By locating energy wastage, energy benchmarking also contributes to efficiency growth. Building owners and managers may decrease energy waste and boost the effectiveness of their building systems by adopting energy efficiency enhancements. This can therefore result in enhanced building performance and greater occupant comfort.

    Improved Building Performance 

    Building owners and managers may enhance the efficiency of their building systems by identifying potential areas for improvement and putting those improvements into practice. Numerous advantages may result from this, including better maintenance of building systems, enhanced occupant comfort, and improved indoor air quality. In the end, energy benchmarking may assist property owners and managers in improving the experience for their renters or residents while also lowering their carbon footprint and promoting a more sustainable future. 

    Enhanced Sustainability 

    Enhancing sustainability through energy benchmarking may be beneficial. Reduced energy use may help building owners and managers lower their carbon impact and advance a more sustainable future. Building managers and owners may increase the lifespan of building systems and encourage sustainable practices by installing energy efficiency modifications. These advantages can result in cost savings over the long run and better building performance in addition to having a favorable effect on the environment. In the end, energy benchmarking may assist building managers and owners in meaningfully influencing the future to be more resilient and sustainable. 

    4. Challenges of Energy Benchmarking 

    Energy Benchmarking Implementation - Vert Energy Group

    While there are many benefits to energy benchmarking, there are also some challenges that building owners and managers should be aware of. Some of the common challenges include:  

    Data Collection 

    Accurately gathering energy data can be a challenging task, particularly for buildings with multiple tenants or submeters. Collecting energy data can be time-consuming and expensive when dealing with renters or subcontractors, and building owners and managers may be required to address these challenges. 

    Fortunately, there are several solutions available to simplify the data collection process. For example, building owners and managers can invest in smart meters, which can automatically monitor and report energy usage data in real-time. Additionally, implementing energy management systems can provide a centralized platform for tracking energy consumption across multiple buildings and tenants. 

    Cost 

    While implementing energy benchmarking and energy efficiency upgrades can be beneficial for building performance and sustainability, they can also come with a significant price tag. Building owners and managers need to carefully consider the costs of upgrades against the potential energy savings to determine if the investment is worthwhile. 

    Fortunately, there are several financing options available to help building owners and managers implement energy efficiency upgrades without breaking the bank. For example, government grants and incentives may be available to support building upgrades, and energy service companies (ESCOs) can provide financing solutions to help offset upfront costs. 

    Lack of Expertise 

    Implementing energy benchmarking and energy efficiency upgrades requires a certain level of expertise in energy management and building systems. Building owners and managers may need to hire energy consultants or provide training for their staff to ensure that these practices are implemented effectively. 

    Expert energy consultants can provide valuable insights into building systems and energy usage patterns, helping building owners and managers identify areas for improvement and develop strategies for optimizing energy efficiency. In addition, providing staff training on energy-efficient practices can help ensure that building systems are used efficiently and that energy-saving opportunities are not missed. 

    Conclusion 

    In conclusion, energy benchmarking is a practical and effective way to reduce carbon footprint and improve building performance. By implementing energy benchmarking, building owners and managers can save money on energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Although challenges exist, the benefits of energy benchmarking outweigh the costs, making it a worthwhile investment. We encourage building owners and managers to embrace energy benchmarking and make a positive impact on the environment. 

    If you are looking for an Energy Benchmark expert for your property, contact us at VertPro.com! We are an award-winning Energy Benchmarking and Audit Consultancy, recognized on Inc. 5000, providing innovative SaaS technology-based solutions for Building Owners & Property Managers to Simplify Energy Compliance with all 50+ Energy Benchmarking & Energy Efficiency Laws Nationwide. From Energy Benchmarking to Energy Audits/RCx Plus and Construction Marketplace, VertPro® has you covered.

  • Investing in Energy Benchmarking

    Investing in Energy Benchmarking

    Why You Should Invest In NYC Energy Benchmarking To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

    As the world continues to face an uncertain and ever-changing environment, it is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes to reduce their carbon footprints. One cost-effective way for companies in New York City (NYC) to do this is by investing in energy benchmarking. NYC’s Energy Benchmarking law has made it easier than ever before for building owners and tenants to monitor, compare, and improve their energy performance. With all the potential benefits that come from investing in benchmarking solutions, it’s a great opportunity for any company looking to go green! In this blog post we will explore why NYC Energy Benchmarking is key for your business operations and how you can begin taking advantage of its environmental advantages today.

    What is NYC Energy Benchmarking?

    NYC Energy Benchmarking is a mandatory energy efficiency program requiring certain buildings in New York City to track and submit energy use data on an annual basis. Buildings that participate in energy benchmarking are provided with energy efficiency ratings, giving owners insight into how their building compares to similar ones.

    The overall goal of the local law is to improve the energy efficiency of NYC buildings throughout the five boroughs by providing comprehensive, actionable data that helps identify and reduce energy and emissions performance.

    Leveraging the ENERGY STAR portfolio management tool, cities across the country can monitor progress and improve efficiency in thousands of public and private buildings at once.

    NYC Energy Benchmarking is ultimately a cost-saving practice for landlords and building owners looking to make their property more efficient- friendly for both tenants’ wallets and our planet!

    What are NYC Energy Benchmarking Requirements?

    New York City has set out energy benchmarking requirements to help reduce the city’s pollution levels, which have had a devastating effect on public health and the environment. NYC Energy Benchmarking is a voluntary program that helps building owners understand the energy use of their buildings in comparison to similar buildings, setting targets for energy efficiency improvements.

    This program requires that each year buildings over 25,000 sq ft track each and submit their annual energy and water usage with the intention of creating awareness of how much energy their buildings use. Owners then can compare their buildings’ energy performances throughout time with EPA ratings from over 5000 commercial buildings.

    If a certain building is found to be an inefficient use of resources, NYC Energy Benchmarking provides suggestions on how to improve its performance in order to help reduce emissions and save money. All data is then used by the city as aggregate data only, reducing privacy concerns so authorities can assess the emission profiles of individuals or groups of buildings.

    Through this program, New York City not only reduces its own carbon footprint and saves its renewable energy but other cities adopt these practices and are inspired by New York’s leadership in this effort thus leading to global impact.

    Benefits of Investing in NYC Energy Benchmarking

    NYC Energy Benchmarking - Reducing Energy Costs

    New York City buildings account for nearly 75% of the city’s carbon emissions, making energy efficiency through benchmarking a critical factor in fighting climate change. Investing in NYC Energy Benchmarking can provide a significant return on investment by reducing energy costs and creating a healthier living environment.

    For commercial buildings, it can mean improved occupancy rates from tenants who value eco-friendly options, better leasing deals as new efficiency measures lower energy bills even further, and tax incentives provided by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

    Property managers also benefit from an easy-to-use online system to compare their buildings’ performance with similar properties and receive energy efficiency grades based on their energy savings efforts.

    NYC Energy Benchmarking is an important step towards achieving greater sustainability at both an individual building level as well as community-wide.

    Reasons to Invest in NYC Energy Benchmarking

    Leverage Data for Real Estate Investment:

    Benchmarking provides real estate owners and investors with data that can be used to make informed decisions. Real estate owners can use benchmarking data to compare their building’s energy performance against similar buildings, identify opportunities for improvement, and prioritize investments.

    Improve Property Value:

    Benchmarking can help improve property value by increasing overall efficiency and enhancing tenant comfort. Owners have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to energy efficiency, which has become an increasingly important factor for tenants when selecting the property.

    Reduce Operating Costs:

    By benchmarking a building’s performance and identifying opportunities for improvement, owners can reduce operating costs. The data provides insight into potential cost savings and the ability to target investments towards areas of greatest return.

    Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

    Benchmarking helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing real estate owners with data that can inform operational decisions. By understanding energy use in their buildings and setting goals for improvement, owners can take action to reduce carbon dioxide emission levels.

    Maximize Subsidies & Incentives:

    Benchmarking can help owners maximize their access to subsidies and incentives offered by energy service companies, energy efficiency programs, and local governments. Depending on a building’s performance, owners may be eligible to receive funding or tax credits.

    Attract Eco-conscious Tenants:

    NYC Energy Benchmarking provides an opportunity for owners to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and attract tenants who prioritize energy efficiency. Owners can use the data to demonstrate their building’s performance in comparison with industry standards and showcase the improvements they have made.

    Meet Legal Obligations:

    NYC Energy Benchmarking is a legal requirement for buildings over 25,000 square feet in NYC. It’s important that owners comply with the law and submit their reports on time to avoid potential fines. Benchmarking also helps owners meet other legal obligations related to energy efficiency, such as the Carbon Emission Reduction Requirement.

    Demonstrate Leadership:

    Benchmarking provides owners with a powerful platform to demonstrate their commitment to energy efficiency. By investing in NYC Energy Benchmarking, owners can demonstrate their leadership to the market and gain recognition for their achievements. This will help them stand out from the competition and attract eco-conscious tenants.

    By investing in NYC Energy Benchmarking, real estate owners and investors can capitalize on data to make informed decisions, improve property value and reduce operating costs, maximize subsidies and incentives, attract eco-conscious tenants, and meet legal obligations. Investing in benchmarking is an essential step for real estate owners to succeed in the changing market.  ​

    How NYC Energy Benchmarking Can Lower Your Carbon Footprint?

    City-wide efforts to reduce carbon emissions are a must in the fight against climate change, and the New York city council is leading the way. Through NYC energy benchmarking, they are making new requirements that existing buildings need to meet regarding their heating and cooling systems.

    By better understanding the energy and water usage of these buildings, owners have the data points needed to make informed decisions about new efficient equipment installations and timely repairs that improve efficiency.

    These changes can significantly help lower the carbon footprint in New York City because less energy is being used which also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. In addition, it saves businesses money on their utility bills every month!

    As NYC continues to invest in this practice, we’ll all be able to benefit from cleaner air, reduced costs, and a healthier planet.

    How Building Owners Can Use NYC Energy Benchmarking To Increase Energy efficiency?

    Increase Energy efficiency

    Building owners in New York City have the ability to increase their energy efficiency with NYC Energy Benchmarking. This program, put forth by the New York City Department of Buildings provides covered buildings with the resources to reduce their carbon footprint and save money.

    By using this program covered building owners can access a wealth of knowledge on data-driven recommended investments, distributed energy resources, and ways they can measure their success.

    NYC Energy Benchmarking allows building owners to identify where their buildings are wasting energy, understand their economic and environmental gains from implementing energy efficient solutions, as well as tracking progress over time.

    With this invaluable information covered building owners will be able to save money while helping protect the environment.

    How To Get Started With NYC Energy Benchmarking?

    NYC Energy Benchmarking is a great way for building owners for reducing greenhouse gas emissions of their buildings while simultaneously reducing energy costs.

    It requires an owner with an online NYC Buildings account to first log into the website and supply basic information about their building, including the address and borough.

    The next step is uploading certain documents, including an energy report and electricity bills, then viewing your building’s initial energy score—generated by combining reported details on square footage, number of buildings, thermostat capacity, etc.—and comparing it against peer buildings.

    NYC Energy Benchmarking projects power bill reductions of up to 10% each year when reducing energy use by 20%. Start reducing your energy footprint today with NYC Energy Benchmarking!

    Conclusion

    NYC energy benchmarking is an important step towards reducing your carbon footprint and saving on energy costs. By understanding how much energy your building uses, you can make informed decisions about how to reduce consumption and save money. And, by reducing your building’s energy use, you’ll also be doing your part to help the environment. If you’re interested in learning more about NYC energy benchmarking or would like help getting started, we’d be happy to talk with you.