Vert Energy Archives - Page 4 of 6

New Evolving Energy Efficiency Laws

Today, nearly everyone accepts that we must transition away from the use of fossil fuels, as the damage happening to our planet and environment is astronomical. This has led to many science and business innovations as we search for new sustainable or renewable alternatives to coal, oil, and gas.

One such innovation is energy efficiency. This is the practice of using less energy to achieve the same goal, whether that’s powering a home, running a business, or manufacturing a product. For example, new energy-efficient lightbulbs use less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light. In the United States, new energy efficiency standards for appliances and equipment have led to significant savings in electricity use. New laws and regulations are increasingly requiring that products use less energy, and while some of these new efficient products may cost more upfront, over time they save money and help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

As the world transitions to a low-carbon future, energy efficiency will play a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing the rate of climate change. In 2018, the United States updated its energy efficiency standards for commercial buildings. These new standards will require new buildings to be more energy efficient than ever before, and they will spur businesses to invest in energy efficiency upgrades for existing buildings. The new standards are estimated to save businesses $12 billion in energy costs over the next 30 years. And by 2030, the standards are expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 160 million metric tons—the equivalent of taking 33 million cars off the road for a year.

As energy efficiency becomes an increasingly important issue for cities, states, and the nation, new energy laws and regulations are being enacted to mandate better performance from commercial and multifamily properties. Metrics you need to reach, deadlines, and specifics on how to file your energy performance with your municipality vary from city to city.

For commercial building owners, new energy efficiency laws are taking effect that will require significant improvements in the way their buildings use energy. These laws are designed to promote energy conservation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many commercial building owners are already taking steps to improve their buildings’ energy efficiency, but the new laws will require even more changes. There are incentives for those who do make their buildings more energy efficient, including tax breaks, utility rebates, and other financial assistance. It is also important to note that building owners who don’t comply with the new laws may be subject to fines or other penalties.

An example of such regulations is the newly adopted standards for consumer appliances and the energy-saving rules for federal buildings. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released new building energy code requirements “that will save taxpayer dollars and ensure that the federal government leads by example in energy efficiency. Beginning in April 2023, all new buildings and major retrofits constructed by the Federal government must comply with the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the 2019 American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers Standard 90.1 building energy codes. DOE estimates that this measure will save $4.2 million dollars in operating costs within the first year of implementation.” Source

Another example is California’s Building Decarbonization Partnership. The Building Decarbonization Partnership is a voluntary, non-regulatory program that helps buildings stakeholders identify and overcome barriers to achieving deep energy savings in their buildings. The Partnership provides resources and technical assistance to help participants save energy, money, and water, and achieve their climate goals. The Partnership is open to any multifamily or commercial building owner, manager, or operator who is interested in reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in their buildings. There is no cost to participate in the Partnership. “California’s buildings produce a quarter of the state’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making homes and businesses a major factor in climate change. The California Building Decarbonization Assessment provides a framework to tackle the challenges in developing a path toward reducing GHG emissions associated with California’s buildings.” Source

These are just two examples of how the United States is leading the way in energy efficiency. While making your commercial building more energy efficient can be a challenge, it’s one that is well worth the effort. Not only will you save money, but you’ll be doing your part to help protect our environment.

“In reality, studies show that investments to spur renewable energy and boost energy efficiency generate far more jobs than oil and coal.”-Jeff Goodell

Upcoming Energy Audits deadlines for (LA, SF, SJ, Austin Tx, Seattle WA, Atlanta GA, Boston, Washington State)

With consistently updating laws and ever-changing regulations, we have compiled a list of important dates and requirements for the upcoming Energy Audit deadlines for Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Austin, Seattle, Atlanta, Boston, and the state of Washington. Mark your calendars with important dates, and requirements to avoid potential fines/violations.

Location	Deadline	Additional Requirements:
Los Angeles, CA	June 1, 2023: Bldg IDs ending in “4” December 1, 2023: Bldg IDS sending in “5”	Energy Audit, Water Audit & Retro-Commissioning (Every 5 years)
San Francisco, CA	April 1, 2023	Energy Audit or RCx (Every 5 years)
San Jose, CA	May 1, 2023	Last Digit of APN 0,1
Atlanta, GA	December 31, 2023	2022 deadline, extended to January 4^th, 2023 Every 10 years) starting in 2020
Boston, MA	June 15, 2023	Every 5 years starting in 2010
Austin, TX	June 1, 2023	Energy Audits + Mandatory Upgrades
Seattle, WA	October 1, 2023	Periodic Tune-Ups for Larger Commercial Buildings
Washington (State)	April 1, 2023	Energy Audits

Audits and RCx can take substantially longer than benchmarks as on-site inspections conducted by licensed professionals (LP) are required. A minimum of one on-site inspection is required to gather information and depending on the complexity and size of the building, additional on-site visits may be needed to get a full scope of the building and its systems and equipment. Any missing information can cause inaccurate reporting and delay the process of filing. To assure compliance by the deadline it is suggested that you request your audit 6-9 months prior to the due date, making this the time to start planning for 2023!

Fines or Violations for missed Energy Benchmark Deadlines

Penalties for Missed benchmark deadlines

Missed benchmark deadlines can be a costly mistake for building owners. Every year building owners and managers are required to ensure their property is in compliance with their local city or state energy benchmark programs. Many benchmarking programs have penalties, and failure to file can result in written warnings and/or monetary fines. Non-compliance fines can add up quickly, so it is important to be aware of deadlines and the penalties for missing those deadlines. While not all benchmark programs have monetary fines or official warnings, each city and state agency keeps records. These are often made public via a compliance list, to hold building owners accountable and enforce compliance. These compliance lists can be located on your local city or state benchmarking website or by contacting your local programs support line directly. The following is a complete chart of Benchmark programs with existing penalties for non-compliance:

Benchmark Program	Annual Deadline	Penalty for Non-Compliance
Atlanta Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance	June 1^st	$1,000
Austin Energy Conservation Audit & Disclosure (ECAD) Ordinance	June 1^st	$500-2,000
Berkeley Building Energy Saving Ordinance	July 1st	$100-1,000
Boston Energy Reporting & Disclosure Ordinance	May 15^th	$35-200
California Assembly Bill 802 (CA AB802)	June 1^st	$500-2,000
Cambridge Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance	May 1^st	$300/day
Chicago Building Energy Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1^st	$100 + $25/day
Chula Vista Building Energy Saving Ordinance	May 20^th	$750-2,250
Denver Commercial & Multifamily Building Benchmarking	June 1^st	$2,000
Des Moines Energy & Water Benchmarking Ordinance	May 1^st	$50 + $300-500/day
Evanston Building Energy & Water Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30^th	$100
Fort Collins, CO Ordinance 144 Building Energy & Water Scoring	March 1^st	$1,000
Los Angeles Energy & Water Efficiency (LA EBEWE)	June 1^st	$202
New York City Local Law 84 (NYC LL84)	May 1^st*	$500-$2,000
Philadelphia Building Energy Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30^th	$300 + $100/day
Pittsburgh Building Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1^st	Publicly listed non-Compliant
Portland Energy & Water Use Performance Benchmarking Ordinance (Maine)	May 1^st	$20/day
Portland Commercial Building Energy Reporting (Oregon)	April 22^nd	$500
Reno Energy & Water Efficiency Program (Ordinance 7068)	April 1^st	$850
Saint Louis Building Energy Awareness Bill	April 1^st	$50-1,000
Salt Lake City Elevate Buildings	May 1^st	$500-1,000
San Francisco Existing Commercial Buildings Energy Performance Ordinance (SF EBO)	April 1^st*	$50-2,500
Seattle Council Bill 116731 (CB116731)	July 1^st	$150-500/day

Quote: “Energy-saving technologies keep improving faster than they’re applied, so efficiency is an ever larger and cheaper resource.” – Amory Lovins

Top 10 Vert Employees Halloween Movies

Hocus Pocus Copyright by Disney 1993 – disneyplus.com

Halloween movies are a great way to get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re looking for spooky, funny, family-friendly, or just downright creepy, there’s sure to be a Halloween movie out there for you. Grab some popcorn and get ready to be scared because the Vert Energy Team has compiled a list of our all-time favorite movies to watch on All Hallows Eve and these are the top 10 winners!

In order of the most suggested titles by employees:

Hocus Pocus
Nightmare on Elm Street
Halloweentown
The Nightmare before Christmas
Halloween
Practical Magic
The exorcist
Young Frankenstein
The Thing
Scary Movie

As one of the most iconic Halloween movies of all time, it’s no surprise Hocus Pocus was the most chosen Halloween movie to watch among Vert Energy Group employees! Hocus Pocus has been praised for years for its humor, performances, and iconic songs. For an extra special surprise, head on over to Disney+, as Disney released Hocus Pocus 2, just in time for Halloween 2022! Gather your coven, grab your candy corn, and prepare for the ultimate Halloween movie night with a Hocus Pocus double feature!

Fun Fact:

Halloween is a big industry in America. Every year, Americans spend billions of dollars on Halloween costumes, decorations, and candy. The Halloween industry has grown significantly in recent years, and it shows no signs of slowing down. According to the National Retail Federation‘s seasonal shopping trends this year, conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, Americans are predicted to spend $2.6 billion buying candy for Halloween, in comparison to $3.2 billion on costumes and $2.7 billion on decorations. 172 million people in the United States celebrate Halloween — and about 95% are predicted to purchase candy. That’s a lot of candy corn!

Stephanie’s Section

Houdini’s Final Performance

Halloween, a fun holiday with costumes, and candy, also happens to be the death date of one of the best escape artists in history, Harry Houdini.

Harry Houdini was a famous magician who dazzled crowds for over 30 years. He was born in Hungary in 1874, and he immigrated to the United States with his family when he was a young boy. Houdini was known for his daring escape acts. He would escape from handcuffs, chains, and even straight jackets, often in water or other dangerous situations. Houdini was also an accomplished aviator, and he set many records for flying machines.

On October 24, 1926, Harry Houdini was performing at the Princess Theatre in Montreal. During his show, he invited a member of the audience to come onstage and punch him in the stomach as hard as they could. This was part of Houdini’s act, and he had done it many times before without incident. However, this time was different. The student who punched Houdini, J. Gordon Whitehead, hit him so hard that Houdini collapsed and had to be taken to the hospital.

Houdini initially seemed to recover from the incident, but his condition quickly deteriorated. He is said to have died of peritonitis after his appendix ruptured, but the circumstances of his death remain mysterious to this day. At age 52, on October 31, 1926, Halloween night, Harry Houdini died.

While none would argue Harry Houdini’s death was a tragic event, some people believe that Harry Houdini’s death was not accidental. There are many wild theories about what really happened to Houdini, and many seem to believe that he was murdered.

One theory is that Houdini was killed by the Mafia. It’s well known that Houdini was very critical of the Mob, and he had made enemies within the organization. It is possible that the Mafia ordered Whitehead to punch Houdini in the stomach as a way of getting revenge.

Another theory is that Houdini was killed by the KGB. This theory emerged after the release of previously classified documents in 2006. These documents showed that Houdini had been under surveillance by the KGB for many years. It is possible that the KGB ordered Whitehead to punch Houdini to silence him.

Whether or not he was murdered, his death shocked the world, and his legacy has lived on ever since. Harry Houdini was a true pioneer in the world of magic, and his death is still the subject of conversation decades later.

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

October 5, 2022

Changing Landscape of Energy Efficiency

The landscape of energy efficiency is ever-changing. New technologies and approaches are emerging that are transforming the way we use and conserve energy. As our understanding of energy efficiency evolves, so too do the ways in which we can make our businesses more energy efficient. From solar panels to LED lighting, from benchmarks to building upgrades there are a variety of options available to help save energy and money.

States are continuing to adopt ordinances and laws, that make it easier for business owners and businesses to “go green.” Some of these laws and ordinances are designed to increase the use of renewable energy, while others aim to improve energy efficiency. These laws and ordinances are always changing and updating, with new laws coming into effect every year.

Many states are mandating compliance with the updated International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which includes provisions for increased energy efficiency in commercial buildings. The code is updated every three years, with the most recent version being published in 2021. The 2024 IECC will be more stringent than the 2021 IECC in terms of overall energy performance. The ICC board gave the committee this directive: “The code is updated on a three-year cycle with each subsequent edition providing increased energy savings over the prior edition.”

The IECC provides a minimum baseline for Energy Efficiency standards that must be met or exceeded to obtain a building permit. The code is designed to reduce energy consumption and encourage the use of energy-efficient practices and technologies. Some of the provisions of the IECC include:

Commercial	Non-Commercial
Improved insulation for walls, ceilings, floors, and windows	Improved insulation for walls, ceilings, floors, and windows
Reduced air leakage through cracks and openings in the building envelope	Reduced air leakage through cracks and openings in the building envelope
More efficient heating and cooling systems	More efficient heating and cooling systems
Improved lighting efficiency	X
Reduced water consumption	X
Improved ventilation rates	X

As you can see the IECC includes additional requirements and provisions for commercial buildings. Many cities and states are also adopting additional energy efficiency measures beyond what is required by the IECC, particularly for existing commercial buildings. These measures can vary from state to state, but some common examples include offering incentives to businesses to make energy efficiency improvements and establishing building energy codes that are more stringent than the IECC.

Additional energy efficiency measures such as energy benchmarks and disclosure for commercial buildings are becoming more and more prevalent across the United States. This means that owners of commercial buildings must track their energy use and report it to the state on a regular basis. With 32 Benchmark Laws adopted in 2021, which increased to 45 by 2022, and at least 6 more coming into effect in 2023, it’s ever apparent that energy benchmarking will continue to play a vital role for more and more cities in the years to come.

As the number of Benchmark Laws increases every year, so do the mandates for Energy audits and other additional requirements. For instance, commercial buildings will soon be required to supply part, if not all, of their own electrical usage through sustainable means. By making energy use more transparent, building owners are encouraged to make improvements that can save money and help the environment. The goal of these measures is to promote energy efficiency and help reduce energy consumption.

The trend toward more energy-efficient businesses is likely to continue in the years ahead, as we look for ways to save energy and money with new technologies and approaches. As the landscape of energy efficiency continues to adapt and change, there are sure to be new and exciting developments in the field that we can all benefit from.

Beginning in 2023, VertPro® will be switching to online payments only, following suit with paper-free companies such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. Join the paper-free revolution with VertPro® and enjoy all the same benefits in a more environmentally friendly way!

Mountain View Seismic Ordinance

Following suit with many other California cities, Mountain View is mandating the retrofit of unreinforced masonry-bearing wall buildings constructed prior to 1933. The provisions of City code Article x111. – Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Buildings depicts minimum standards for structural seismic resistance established primarily to reduce the risk of loss of life or injury and to reduce earthquake damage to rehabilitated buildings. So, what does this mean for Mountain View?

In the United States, seismic ordinances have been adopted in several jurisdictions, including California, Oregon, and Washington. These ordinances generally require the evaluation of buildings identified as being vulnerable to earthquake damage and the implementation of specific retrofit measures if the building is found to be deficient. The type of buildings typically covered by these ordinances includes unreinforced masonry buildings, soft-story buildings, and non-ductile concrete buildings. These requirements address critical safety concerns by increasing the likelihood that occupants can safely exit the building in the event of an earthquake.

Historically, many of these ordinances were passed because of devastating earthquakes. The 1994 Northridge earthquake resulted in 57 deaths and over $20 billion in damage. The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake caused 63 deaths and over $12 billion in damage. And the 1971 San Fernando earthquake resulted in 65 deaths and over $500 million in damage. These earthquakes – and others like them – led to a greater understanding of the importance of seismic safety. As a result, cities began mandating retrofits for buildings of a certain age and construction type. If your building falls into one of these categories, it’s important to get in compliance as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, many buildings in California are at risk of collapse during an earthquake. A study by the US Geological Survey found that, in a major earthquake, up to 28% of wood-frame soft-story buildings could collapse. Wood-frame soft-story buildings make up a large portion of the housing stock in California – an estimated 60% of all apartments in the state are soft-story buildings. Different cities in California have different seismic retrofit ordinances. The City of Los Angeles passed its Seismic Retrofit Ordinance in 2015, which applies to wood-frame soft-story buildings and non-ductile concrete buildings. San Francisco’s Soft-Story Program applies to wood-frame buildings with five or more stories that have soft, weak, or open-front walls and were built before 1978. And Berkeley’s Seismic Retrofit Program applies to all buildings, regardless of construction type or year built.

Mountain View is now mandating all buildings constructed or under construction prior to 1933 which have bearing walls constructed of unreinforced masonry to be retrofitted. Unreinforced masonry buildings are defined as any building built prior to 1933 containing walls constructed wholly or partially with any of the following materials:

• Unreinforced brick masonry
• Unreinforced concrete masonry
• Hollow clay tile
• Adobe or unburned clay masonry
• Any other unreinforced tile or masonry construction material.

“This article shall not apply to group M occupancies; detached group R, division 3 occupancies; detached group R, division 1 occupancies with less than five (5) dwelling units used solely for residential purposes; nor to any undamaged building less than nine hundred (900) square feet and containing less than five (5) occupants as determined by 33-A of the 1985 Uniform Building Code.” Source

Time Limits for Compliance starting from August 12, 2022

Structural Analysis

REQUIRED ACTION BY THE OWNER	TIME FRAME FOR COMPLIANCE
The building owner submits structural analysis or other data indicating that the building complies with this article; or	270 calendar days from.
The building owner submits structural analysis and plans for proposed structural alterations of the building to ensure compliance; or	270 calendar days from.
The building owner submits plans for the demolition of the building.	270 calendar days from.

Structural Upgrade

REQUIRED ACTION BY THE OWNER	TIME FRAME FOR COMPLIANCE
The City council shall establish a mandatory compliance date for completion of the URM building structural upgrade for demolition.	Within 120 calendar days from the end of the 270-calendar day structural analysis period.

Letter of Intent

REQUIRED ACTION BY THE OWNER	TIME FRAME FOR COMPLIANCE
The building owner shall submit a letter of intent to the building official stating intent to upgrade or demolish the building.	Within 180 calendar days after the council adopts the mandatory compliance date.

¹ Where two (2) or more adjacent buildings under separate ownership are to be rehabilitated simultaneously, an extension may be allowed, with a suggested minimum extension of six (6) months. An extension could be granted on submission of a binding agreement between the owners involved, with the actual date of compliance to be determined by the chief building official.

Furthermore, while Mountain View does not currently mandate the retrofit of wood-frame soft-story buildings (as of January 2022) it is likely the city soon will, and this provision will apply to existing buildings that have the following characteristics:

• Ground-floor wood-frame construction with an open layout

• Minimum of two stories

• Three or more dwelling units on a single parcel of land

• Constructed prior to approximately 1980

The May 2018 Mountain View Soft Story Study Report, estimates that approximately 488 buildings within the City of Mountain View would fall within the scope of this potential wood-frame soft-story building ordinance. The 488 buildings identified within the survey have at least three residential units, a total of 5,123 housing units which represents about 16 percent of the city’s total housing, which rivals the percentage of earthquake-vulnerable homes in Oakland and San Francisco.

Seismic retrofitting is vital for the safety of your tenants, employees, and customers. It’s also required by law in many cases and can result in heavy fines from the city for non-compliance. Additionally, if your building is found to be at risk of collapse in an earthquake, you may be ordered to vacate the premises until the retrofit is complete. Check with your city to see what ordinances apply to your commercial building, don’t wait until it’s too late – retrofit your building today and help ensure the safety of everyone inside.

New Energy Benchmark Laws for 2023

As more and more states look to benchmarking to improve energy efficiency, several new laws and ordinances are set to go into effect in 2023. These laws will require benchmarking for all commercial buildings over a certain size and will impose penalties for those that do not comply. While some building owners may see this as a burden, benchmarking can be a valuable tool. It can help identify areas where a building is wasting energy and can also help reduce a building’s energy consumption and be more sustainable. In the long run, benchmarking can save building owners money by helping them make their buildings more efficient. Not only are new laws and ordinances being implemented, but existing laws are constantly being updated. These updates include lowering the size threshold for buildings covered by the benchmarking requirements, establishing new third-party data verification requirements, requiring the use of whole-building utility data, including aggregate data directly from utilities when applicable, and clarification of violations and the enforcement process.

Source: IMT Benchmarking Map 08312022 CURRENT If you own a commercial building, now is the time to start getting ready for the new benchmarking laws, and if you’re not already benchmarking your building, now is a good time to start. Many new states will require benchmarking compliance in 2023 and will enforce penalties on those who do not follow the new benchmarking laws. However, benchmarking can be simple and easy with the help of Vert Energy Group! Once you know where your building stands in terms of energy efficiency, you can make changes to ensure that your property is as efficient as possible with VertPro®.

“I have a firm belief in the ability and power of women to achieve the things they want to achieve” – Eleanor Roosevelt

A Brief History of Labor Day

In the United States, Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September. It’s a day off for many workers, and a time to enjoy the last few days of summer, but did you know that Labor Day is more than just a day off from work? This American institution has a long and interesting history so let’s take a quick look at the origins of Labor Day and how it’s evolved over the years. Labor Day has its roots in the labor movement of the late 19th century. At that time, working conditions were often very dangerous, and workers were frequently required to work long hours for little pay. In an effort to improve these conditions, workers began organizing into unions. On September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers took unpaid leave and marched in New York City to demand better working conditions. The following year, another labor parade was held in New York City. Inspired by these events, workers across the country began holding their own parades and rallies on the first Monday in September. In 1884, the first formal proposal to make Labor Day a national holiday was made at a meeting of the Central Labor Union. The proposal was approved, and the first National Labor Day was celebrated on September 5, 1884. In 1894, Congress passed a law making the first Monday in September, a national holiday, Labor Day. The first Monday in September was selected as the official date for a few reasons: first, it allowed workers a three-day weekend (as Friday and Saturday were already days off); second, it prevented summer vacations from being cut short; and third, it avoided competition with Independence Day celebrations. Today, Labor Day is celebrated in countries around the world to recognize the achievements of workers and to celebrate the labor movement. Over time, the meaning of Labor Day has changed somewhat. It’s still a day to celebrate workers and their achievements, but it has also become a day for barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor activities. For many Americans, it marks the end of summer and the start of the school year. No matter how you choose to spend your Labor Day, one thing is for sure: it’s a day to kick back and enjoy some well-deserved time off! There you have it: a brief history of Labor Day. Next time you’re enjoying a cookout or taking a leisurely stroll on this day off from work, remember that it exists because workers fought—and sometimes died—for the right to a fair wage and reasonable working hours. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day!

Fun Fact: As of 2021, 65% of Americans believe there is intelligent life on other planets!

Stephanie’s Section

Aliens vs. Voyager 1 Do you believe in aliens? It’s a question that has been debated for centuries, and there is still no clear answer. There are those who firmly believe that aliens exist, and others are convinced that aliens are nothing more than a figment of our imagination. There is no right or wrong answer, but it’s certainly an interesting topic to debate. Recently, Voyager 1 has been at the center of this very debate. How and why? You may be wondering what is Voyager 1? Voyager 1 is a space probe launched by NASA on September 5, 1977, to study the outer solar system and interstellar space beyond the sun’s heliosphere. Voyager 1 has been in operation for almost 45 years, and still transmits data back to earth through the Deep Space Network! Recently, Nasa’s engineering team is investigating a mystery taking place on the Voyager 1 spacecraft. The vehicle is more than 11 billion miles from Earth, and for the past several months has been sending back strange readings that have left engineers baffled. As the most distant human-made object from Earth, Voyager 1 is operating at the edge of the solar system, beyond the Sun’s influence, and while the craft is successfully receiving and executing commands from Earth, the readouts from the probe’s AACS (attitude articulation and control system) show something strange is happening on board. The AACS maintains the craft’s orientation, keeping the antenna pointed directly at Earth so that data can be successfully sent back to Nasa. While all indicators suggest the AACS is working as normal, the readings show that something is interfering with the spacecraft’s ability to communicate with Earth. The interference is coming from an unknown source and it’s preventing Voyager 1 from sending back data at its full capacity. It appears Voyager 1 is detecting a never-before-seen interaction between particles from inside our solar system and particles from interstellar space. This is something that was not predicted by models of how these particles should behave. The new findings have been published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, and they could help scientists to better understand the environment around Voyager 1, as well as the transition between our solar system and interstellar space. “The spacecraft are both almost 45 years old, which is far beyond what the mission planners anticipated. We’re also in interstellar space – a high-radiation environment that no spacecraft have flown in before. So there are some big challenges for the engineering team. But I think if there’s a way to solve this issue with the AACS, our team will find it” said Suzanne Dodd, project manager for Voyager 1 and 2 at Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Source Although the interference is preventing Voyager 1 from functioning at its full capacity, and the team is working to determine the cause of the interference, they haven’t been able to find a definitive answer. They’re confident that they’ll eventually be able to solve the mystery and figure out what’s causing the strange signals. This isn’t the first time that Voyager 1 has picked up strange signals. In 1977, the spacecraft recorded a series of pulses that were later determined to be from two objects colliding in deep space. The last time we picked up strange signals onboard the Voyager 1 it was later explained, but many have theorized that the spacecraft is now picking up signals from an unknown intelligent life form and that’s what is causing the interference. So, what do you believe? Are aliens causing the interference onboard Voyager 1?

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

September 14, 2022

Vert Energy Group – Paper-free in 2023

Beginning in 2023, VertPro® will be switching to online payments only, following suit with paper-free companies such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. The paperless movement is growing in popularity, as more and more people and companies are looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly. Join the paper-free revolution with VertPro® today and enjoy all the same benefits in a more environmentally friendly way!

While there are many benefits to paperless billing, our favorite at VertPro® is the positive environmental impact. Paperless billing saves trees, which in turn, helps to preserve our planet! By using less paper, we can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources by reducing the amount of energy used to produce paper products. Paperless also means less ink, plastic, fuel, waste, and countless other aspects of manufacturing and disposal processes.

Not only are you helping the environment – you help yourself, too. Paperless billing is more efficient and secure and saves you time and money. Pay your bills on time without any additional fees, never having to worry whether your submitted payment arrived by its due date. No envelopes, no stamps, no problem! Access all your securely stored documents faster and easier with paperless billing from VertPro®.

Paperless billing is just one of the many ways VertPro® is working to improve the customer experience! We strive to provide our customers with enhanced security and added convenience to assist in overall customer satisfaction. We know paperless billing is the way of the future and we want our customers to be a part of it!

VertPro® is making a difference with paper-free payments in 2023, will you join us? Help save the planet and experience the benefits for yourself!

“By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail” – Benjamin Franklin

New Webinar: 6 Pitfalls to Avoid During Construction Projects

Building Upgrade Projects are key to improving the features and condition of your commercial building, which significantly influences its value. While many building owners put off needed repairs or improvements, properly maintained properties will always be in demand and command higher prices. By making strategic upgrades, you not only add value to your property but also make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters. Examples of such upgrades are Gas Line Inspections or Repairs, Seismic Retrofitting, Solar Panels or Green Roof Installations, Parking lot Updates, and Building Management Systems. However, it is important to be aware of the pitfalls and plan accordingly. By doing so, you can ensure that your project is a success and that your property maintains its high market value. Communication, Budgeting, Resourcing, Due Diligence, Coordination, and Contract Preparation are all common errors made during Capital Improvement projects which can be costly and time-consuming. In our new VPU webinar, and in the table below, we discuss these common pitfalls further.

6 Pitfalls to watch out for in Building Project Updates

Communication	These types of projects have lots of moving parts, and it’s paramount that every team and member is on the same page. This limits confusion and the probability of redesign. Mistakes can result in a domino effect. Construction and project management software allows teams of contractors and sub-contractors to stay up to date and remain in contact.
Budgeting	Budgeting for capital improvements is something property management teams should be doing every year. Some projects will be mandated by law. Proactive budgeting will protect your bottom line by giving you a safety net for setbacks and will make sure you’re prepared for mandated upgrades. Staying on top of mandated upgrades will help you avoid costly fines and penalties and potential lawsuits, as mistakes and setbacks can be costly.
Resourcing	Hiring the right professionals can make all the difference. The costs of misassigning roles between different contractors and sub-contractors are most likely going to appear midway through construction. Getting professional assistance with your planning and hiring will reduce cost overruns and delays.
Due Diligence	Are all your ducks in a row? Land ownership disputes or zoning, boundary, and access issues can stall projects and increase costs. Preparing all necessary documents prior to construction and hiring reputable and verified contractors can make a world of difference.
Coordination	Are your architects and engineers working in coordination? Design lapses in the project can cause major setbacks. Consider how the designs are created and released. Make sure they are releasing their designs on the same day.
Contract Preparation	Try to avoid using different forms of agreements and contracts with suppliers and contractors. They will be difficult to manage and create confusion. Using a standard form for all your engagements will minimize confusion.

Building owners should consult with VertPro® Upgrades to determine which projects will be the most beneficial for their property. By making smart upgrades, you can add significant value to your commercial building. Sign up for a free 1-on-1 educational webinar with VertPro® for information on the 6 pitfalls to avoid during construction projects. Capital improvements are key to maintaining the efficiency of your properties, and in this webinar, we’ll discuss how the process works.

Post a Project for a Chance to WIN an Apple Watch

Deadline: August 31, 2022

Post a project on VertPro® Upgrades by August 31, 2022, and you’ll automatically be entered into the raffle for a chance to win an Apple Watch. You can post a project here: Submit your project here for a chance to win an Apple Watch

Capital Improvements are key to increasing the market value of your properties. By making strategic upgrades, you add value and efficiency to your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.

VertPro® provides you free bids from verified contractors for any building upgrade project. Not only are the bids FREE, but we are currently offering a $25 Amazon Gift Card when you post a project! If you select a bid within 5 days of receiving them, you win ANOTHER $25 Amazon Gift Card!

On top of those great rewards, if you post a project before NOON PST AUGUST 31^st, 2022, you will be automatically entered to win an Apple Watch!

“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today” – Malcolm X

The Heat of Summer is at its Peak and Will Soon Cool Down

Tips for energy conservation

In the last few years, the United States has experienced some of the hottest summers on record. As global temperatures continue to rise, heat waves are more intense – and more frequent. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s important to make sure that your building is as energy efficient as possible. Below are several effective ways you can lower your energy consumption and keep cool this summer. By following these tips, you can keep your home or building cool and comfortable all summer long.

Summertime is a great time to save energy – and money! Your cooling system is one of the biggest energy hogs in your building, so it’s important to keep it running efficiently. First, make sure that you change your air filter regularly – a dirty air filter will make your system work harder and use more energy. You should also have your cooling system serviced by a professional once a year to make sure it’s running properly. Summertime is also a great time to reassess your building’s thermostat settings. Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean you have to crank the AC way down – in fact, that can end up costing you more money in the long run. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends employers keep the thermostat between 68° and 76° F. Others believe in the power of a colder office, for instance, Mark Zuckerberg keeps his thermostat at an unbelievable 59° F. Regardless of personal preference, commercial buildings waste a lot of energy every year, so anything you can do to reduce that waste is good for the environment and your bottom line. In terms of energy efficiency, while keeping in mind employee comfortability, we suggest setting the thermostat to 74 degrees when in the office, which will keep you cool without using too much energy. Ask your property manager about investing in a programmable thermostat, which will automatically adjust the temperature for you based on your schedule. Don’t forget to close the vents in rooms that you’re not using – that way, you’re not cooling an empty room and wasting energy.

Fans are also a great way to circulate air and keep your building cool. If you have ceiling fans, make sure they are rotating counterclockwise so that they push the air down. You can also open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation, which will help circulate the air around the office and keep things cool. Just be sure to close the windows and doors at night so that you don’t let all the cool air out! Taking these steps can help to make your office more comfortable for everyone while also saving energy and money.

Fun Fact: Do you have a sneaky feeling you’re seeing double? Chances are, it’s twins! If you’re noticing more twins, you’re not alone. In fact, the twinning rate – the number of twins born per 1,000 births – has been on the rise in recent years. According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 3 in every 100 births in the United States are twins. Twins are more common than ever before, and the twinning rate is only expected to continue to increase in the coming years. There are several factors that can contribute to the increased twinning rate, including advances in fertility treatments and an increase in multiple births. Twins can be either fraternal (non-identical) or identical (monozygotic). Fraternal twins occur when two eggs are fertilized by two different sperm cells, and they result in two genetically distinct individuals. Identical twins occur when a single fertilized egg splits into two, resulting in two individuals with the same DNA. Twins are more common than ever before, so if you’re expecting twins, you’re in good company!

Stephanie’s Section

Books or Movies “The book will always be better than any adaptation because it is always better at being itself.” – Thomas Leitch Are books always better than movie adaptations? A good book is like a good movie, in that it can transport you to another place, another time, or even into another world. But the beauty of a book is that it doesn’t rely on special effects or a big budget to do so. All it needs is your imagination, something movies will never be able to match. Your imagination creates a world from your own experiences and interests, tailored to you. A movie’s depiction is a generic version of all the beautiful images and situations your mind creates and will never compare to the power of your imagination. Therefore, the consensus is that books will always be better than movies. There are many arguments in favor of books being better than movie adaptations. Studies have shown that people who regularly read have increased mental capacity and are better able to concentrate, reason, and think creatively. Overall, movies are a surface-level entertainment source that doesn’t require much effort or attention to consume. You can watch a movie passively, without having to engage your brain too much. Books, on the other hand, are a more active form of entertainment that requires you to use your imagination and engage your brain to follow the story. Books also provide more depth and detail than movies, as movies are forced to compress the story into a shorter timeframe, which means that important details are often left out. Books, on the other hand, have the time to explore the story in greater depth and detail. Movies are often constrained by budget and time, while books don’t have these same constraints and don’t rely on special effects to make up for a lack of depth or detail. So, next time you’re looking for a good story, make sure to pick up a book instead of heading to the movies. You’ll be glad you did!

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

August 3, 2022

Energy Benchmark Fines And Violations

City/State Energy Benchmark Fines and Violations for Non-Compliance

Every year, building owners and managers are faced with the responsibility of ensuring their property is in compliance with their local city or state Energy Benchmark programs. Many of these Benchmark programs have penalties in place to enforce annual compliance. Failure to file required energy usage data can result in written warnings and/or monetary fines. Fines and violations for non-compliance can add up quickly, so it’s important to be aware of the most common infractions. The following is a complete chart of Benchmark programs with existing penalties for non-compliance:

Benchmark Program	Annual Deadline	Penalty for Non-Compliance
Atlanta Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance	June 1^st	$1,000
Austin Energy Conservation Audit & Disclosure (ECAD) Ordinance	June 1^st	$500-2,000
Berkeley Building Energy Saving Ordinance	July 1st	$100-1,000
Boston Energy Reporting & Disclosure Ordinance	May 15^th	$35-200
California Assembly Bill 802 (CA AB802)	June 1^st	$500-2,000
Cambridge Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance	May 1^st	$300/day
Chicago Building Energy Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1^st	$100 + $25/day
Chula Vista Building Energy Saving Ordinance	May 20^th	$750-2,250
Denver Commercial & Multifamily Building Benchmarking	June 1^st	$2,000
Des Moines Energy & Water Benchmarking Ordinance	May 1^st	$50 + $300-500/day
Evanston Building Energy & Water Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30^th	$100
Fort Collins, CO Ordinance 144 Building Energy & Water Scoring	March 1^st	$1,000
Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance	May 1^st	Written Warning
Los Angeles Energy & Water Efficiency (LA EBEWE)	June 1^st	$202
Minneapolis Commercial Building Rating & Disclosure Ordinance	June 1^st	Written Warning + Civil Fine
Montgomery County Building Energy Benchmarking Law	June 1^st	Written Warning
New York City Local Law 84 (NYC LL84)	May 1^st*	$500-$2,000
Orlando Building Energy & Water Efficiency Strategy (Ordinance 2016-64)	May 1^st	Written Warning
Philadelphia Building Energy Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30^th	$300 + $100/day
Pittsburgh Building Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1^st	Publicly listed non-Compliant
Portland Energy & Water Use Performance Benchmarking Ordinance (Maine)	May 1^st	$20/day
Portland Commercial Building Energy Reporting (Oregon)	April 22^nd	$500
Reno Energy & Water Efficiency Program (Ordinance 7068)	April 1^st	$850
Saint Louis Building Energy Awareness Bill	April 1^st	$50-1,000
Salt Lake City Elevate Buildings	May 1^st	$500-1,000
San Francisco Existing Commercial Buildings Energy Performance Ordinance (SF EBO)	April 1^st*	$50-2,500
Seattle Council Bill 116731 (CB116731)	July 1^st	$150-500/day

*Note: New York City and San Francisco have extended the 2022 deadlines to May 31^st and May 15^th respectively to accommodate for issues with the utilities and/or their systems.

While not all Benchmark programs issue written warnings and/or monetary fines, each city and state agency keeps records of compliance statuses year-to-year. Some of these records are made public via a compliance list. These public compliance lists are in place to hold all appropriate parties accountable and aware of their need to comply. You can often locate these public lists directly via your respective city/state Benchmarking website or by contacting your local program’s support line directly.

For New York City building owners, it is important to note that non-compliance by the May deadline will not only result in a $500 violation but will also impact your Local Law 33 (LL33) Energy Grade. Failure to accurately file by the May deadline will automatically result in an LL33 Energy Grade of an F indicating failure to comply. Per the LL33 ordinance, your Energy Grade must be printed and displayed in a conspicuous location near each public entrance on the property. That means an Energy Grade of an F will be in clear sight for all occupants and visitors for an entire year until the new LL33 grades are released the following year.

Whether or not your local Energy Benchmark program has violations, Benchmarking is a key component in maintaining energy efficiency standards for your building while reducing your environmental impact. Avoid further penalties and fines by getting your building Benchmarked. If you’re looking for an easy way to get started and into compliance, Vert Energy Group can help. We specialize in aiding businesses and owners with their annual local Energy Benchmark requirements. Visit VertPro.com/Benchmark-Help to get started today.

“The risk management on the front end of things are hard dollars sometimes for owners to spend. It’s kind of like putting a new roof on your house. You have to do it, otherwise you can save the money but eventually it’s all going to catch up to you.” – Michael Klutho

NYC Local Law 11 (LL11) – Facade Inspection & Safety Program

Under NYC Local Law 11 (LL11), all buildings with six or more stories must undergo an inspection of the exterior walls and appurtenances every five years. This inspection falls under the city’s Façade Inspection and Safety Program, or FISP, which aims to improve public safety by identifying potential problems with building exteriors. During the inspection process, a licensed professional will examine a wide range of material and structural features on the building envelope. These may include windows, doors, masonry, and cladding materials, as well as waterproofing membranes and rooftop vents. The overall goal of FISP is to help ensure that New York buildings are safe and structurally sound while minimizing any potential risks to the property and its occupants. If any issues are identified during the inspection process, they will be flagged so that they can be promptly addressed by qualified contractors. Failure to comply with LL11 will result in civil penalties issued by the New York City Department of Buildings (NYCDOB). In extreme cases, NYCDOB can revoke a building’s Certificate of Occupancy and force it to be closed if it is not in compliance with LL11 as the building will be deemed unsafe. There are four different civil penalties you can receive:

Issue/Reason for Penalty	Penalty Fee
Late Filing of the initial LL11 report	$1,000/month
Failure to File the initial LL11 report	$5,000/year
Failure to correct unsafe conditions	See second chart
Failure to correct SWARMP conditions	$2,000

Penalty Fees for Failure to correct unsafe conditions
	Base Penalty	Plus
Year 1	$1,000/month	N/A
Year 2	$1,000/month	$10/linear foot (l.f.) of shed/month
Year 3	$1,000/month	$20/linear foot (l.f.) of shed/month
Year 4	$1,000/month	$30/linear foot (l.f.) of shed/month
Year 5	$1,000/month	$40/linear foot (l.f.) of shed/month

To manage the deadlines, NYC have assigned buildings to one of three cycles based on the last digit of their assigned block numbers. Based on your assigned cycle you have from three years to comply with the LL11 ordinance. The cycles are:

Last Digit of NYC Block Number	Cycle	LL11 Begins	Initial LL11 Deadline
4, 5, 6, and 9	A	February 21, 2020	February 21, 2022
0, 7, 8	B	February 21, 2021	February 21, 2023
1, 2, 3	C	February 21, 2022	February 21, 2024

Building owners are required to conduct and complete another LL11 report every five years after the initial compliance deadlines. If you have missed or yet to begin your LL11 report, now’s the best time to get started to avoid civil penalties. Vert Energy Group can help connect you with local qualified and licensed contractors to help complete your LL11 inspections and report. Find a contractor to take on your LL11 today on VertPro.com/Upgrades to get complied and ensure your building is up to code.

Fun Fact: 3pm is the official time of observance every Memorial Day in the U.S.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day falls on May 30^th this year. This American holiday began in the years following the Civil War to remember and honor the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country. It is a day of somber reflection, but also of celebration and thanksgiving. Over the years Memorial Day traditions have evolved. Originally, people would observe the holiday by decorating the graves of fallen soldiers and it grew into local and national celebrations with parades. With many offices and companies closed on Memorial Day, this holiday has become more of a long weekend referred to as “Memorial Weekend.” It serves as an opportunity for many to take a weekend trip or host parties in what National Today states is a way “to balance out the soberness of the day and welcome summer.” Whether you’re staying in or taking a trip this Memorial Day, take a moment to pay tribute to honor the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.

Fun Fact: According to a 2021 YouGov poll, the most popular Mother’s Day gift that mothers wanted were flowers followed closely by sharing a special experience with their family.

Danielle’s Corner

Mother’s Day Happy Mother’s Day to all the mom’s out there! Did you know that Mother’s Day was originally meant as a day to protest wars? In 1870, Julia Ware Howe wrote the Mother’s Day Proclamation calling for the end of wars. Howe originally intended the day to be for mothers of different backgrounds to come together to protest war and fight for peace. While that idea didn’t necessarily take off and become tradition, there are still some who do partake in protests in honor of the holiday. WomansDay.com makes honorable mention of the 1982 Lawrence Livermore Library at the University of California protest in which a large group of women came together to protest nuclear weapons. The more common ideology of Mother’s Day stems from Anna Jarvis. On the second Sunday in May of 1907, Anna Jarvis held a service to honor her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who had passed away in 1905. A year later, in 1908 on the second Sunday of May, Jarvis holds another service to honor her late mother and passes out flowers to all who attend. This kickstarts Jarvis’ goal to make Mother’s Day official which as we know she accomplished in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson makes the second Sunday each May the official Mother’s Day. To this day, flowers are one of the most popular gifts bought on Mother’s Day as we honor our own mothers. This Mother’s Day is sure to thank your mom and/or the mother figure in your life for all the love and support they have given you. I know I’ll be showering my mom with many thanks for putting up with my rebellious teen years.

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

May 4, 2022

Energy Benchmarking Deadlines are Almost Here

Building owners and property managers may be wondering whether they need to comply with the latest round of EPA regulations – Energy Benchmarking. The answer is: most likely, yes. Entities must submit their buildings’ energy performance using EPA’s Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool or face possible fines from the city or state agency. As a reminder, the following is a list of the recently passed and upcoming deadlines:

Passed Deadlines
City	Deadline
Washington Clean & Affordable Energy Act of 2008 (Washington, DC)	April 1, 2022
Washington State Senate Bill 5854 (SB5854)	April 1, 2022
May Deadlines
City	Deadline
Cambridge Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance	May 1, 2022
Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance	May 1, 2022
New York City Local Law 84 (NYC LL84)	May 1, 2022
Orlando Building Energy & Water Efficiency Strategy (Ordinance 2016-64)	May 1, 2022
Portland Energy & Water Use Performance Benchmarking Ordinance (Maine)	May 1, 2022
Saint Louis Building Energy Awareness Bill	May 1, 2022
Salt Lake City Elevate Buildings	May 1, 2022
San Jose Energy & Water Building Performance Ordinance (SJ BPO)	May 1, 2022
Boston Energy Reporting & Disclosure Ordinance	May 15, 2022
San Francisco Existing Buildings Energy Ordinance (SF EBO)	May 16, 2022*
Chula Vista Building Energy Saving Ordinance	May 20, 2022
June Deadlines
City	Deadline
Atlanta Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance	June 1, 2022
Austin Energy Conservation Audit & Disclosure Ordinance (ECAD)	June 1, 2022
Boulder Building Performance Efficiency Ordinance	June 1, 2022
California Assembly Bill 802 (CA AB802)	June 1, 2022
Chicago Building Energy Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1, 2022
Denver Commercial & Multifamily Building Benchmarking	June 1, 2022
Los Angeles Energy & Water Efficiency (LA EBEWE)	June 1, 2022
Minneapolis Commercial Building Rating & Disclosure Ordinance	June 1, 2022
Montgomery County Building Energy Benchmarking Law	June 1, 2022
Pittsburgh Building Benchmarking Ordinance	June 1, 2022
San Diego Building Energy Benchmark Ordinance	June 1, 2022
Evanston Building Energy & Water Use Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30, 2022
Philadelphia Building Energy Benchmarking Ordinance	June 30, 2022

*The San Francisco Existing Buildings Energy Ordinance (EBO) is originally due every May 1^st. The city announced that the 2022 deadline has been pushed to May 16, 2022.

For buildings specifically under the Washington DC and Washington state programs, notices containing compliance status will be arriving soon. The notice will either state that your report has been accepted, that no report has been filed, or that there are issues with your report. Any reporting issues or lack of a report, will need to be addressed immediately. It is pertinent that accurate Energy Benchmark reports are filed regardless of missed deadlines to avoid additional violations or penalties from accruing.

All entities with upcoming May and June deadlines still have 1-2 months left to file. Failure to file can result in written and/or monetary violations ranging from daily ($20-300/day) to one-time violations ($50-2,250). The entire filing process can take a minimum of 4-8 weeks to complete from start to finish. Of that time, 30 days alone can be spent working to obtain a building’s aggregate energy usage from its respective utility companies. With hefty fines in place, it’s highly encouraged that entities file early when possible. The longer you wait to file, the higher your chances of missing the deadline and receiving a violation becomes.

Vert Energy Group can help you avoid further and/or potential Benchmark violations when you register on our platform VertPro®. All it takes is 30 minutes – or less – to get started on your 2022 Energy Benchmark report. You’ll want to have the following information to get started: building address, building details (i.e., year built, gross floor area, property type), and a current copy of your utility statements. With that information on hand, log in to an existing VertPro® account or create a new one. Once in, you’ll add your property and complete the necessary authorizations using the utility statements. After that, our team of experts will take on the rest of the work to get your building into compliance. Head on over to VertPro.com to start filing and avoid violations. To speak to a representative, call us Monday-Friday 7 am-5 pm PST at (415) 912-1523 or email us at support@vertpro.com.

“The easiest way to save money is to waste less energy” – Barack Obama

Energy Audits and Retro-Commissioning (RCx)

Did you know that most commercial buildings lose 20-30% of their energy due to inefficiencies in the way they’re operated and maintained? A building Energy Audit is a great way to find out where your building is losing the most energy and can help identify ways to save. Retro-Commissioning (RCx) can also be an effective way to reduce energy consumption in existing buildings, by optimizing systems and controls. Some cities and states require entities to perform Energy Audits and RCx reports in addition to their annual Energy Benchmarks. This is to help building owners and managers gain a full understanding of the building’s energy performance.

While the typical timeframe to complete annual Benchmarks is 4-8 weeks, an Audit and RCx can take substantially longer as more work is involved. Part of the Audit and RCx process entails on-site inspections to be conducted by licensed professionals (LP). A minimum of one on-site inspection is required to gather information on the building. Depending on the complexity and size of the building, additional on-site visits will be needed to get a full scope of the building and its systems and equipment. Any missing information can cause inaccurate reporting and delay the process of filing.

With the ongoing pandemic, many buildings have undergone operational/staffing changes which can make scheduling the necessary site visits difficult. To ensure accurate and timely filing, we highly encourage all entities to begin the Audit and RCx process sooner rather than later. Not only will early filing ensure compliance and prevent potential penalties, but it will also help entities start seeing energy costs savings. For buildings in NYC that are required to comply with Local Law 33 (LL33), these energy savings can help bring your building’s LL33 grade up sooner than if you were to hold off on conducting an Energy Audit. Visit VertPro.com/Audits to get immediate help for your building’s Energy Audit and RCx project.

For buildings in NYC that are required to comply with Local Law 33 (LL33), these energy savings can help bring your building’s LL33 grade up sooner than if you were to hold off on conducting an Energy Audit. To get your bids now visit VertPro.com/NYC-LL97/

“The first thing we can do as individuals and as communities, like a school or a university or a church, is cut our energy use. Do an energy audit or measure our carbon footprint.” – Katharine Hayhoe

VertPro® Subscription Services Available Now

When it comes to saving money on your building operations, subscribing to services can be one of the best decisions you make. With the implementation of city and state Energy requirements, companies are looking at new additional costs to budget for. At Vert Energy Group, we understand that the costs can quickly add up if you’re not properly prepared. That’s why we offer two different Energy subscription plans: Energy Audit Subscription and 3-year Energy Benchmark Partnership. Through our Energy Audit Subscription, you’ll be able to split up your Energy Audit payment up into smaller payments to be paid over the course of 5-years instead of paying it all upfront. You even have the option to include your annual Benchmark payment to your Audit Subscription plan. Don’t have an Energy Audit coming up, but need to complete your annual Benchmark? Our 3-year Benchmark Partnership will lock your portfolio in at a discounted rate compared to our 1-year Benchmark users who are subject to year-to-year price increases. As of this writing, our current rates are: $295/year under the 3-year Benchmark Partnership and $375 under the 1-Year Benchmark plan. Go to VertPro.com/Audits to enroll in in Audit Subscription and VertPro.com to begin a 3-year Benchmark Partnership. For further information, contact us at (415) 912-1523 or support@vertpro.com.

Fun Fact: When April Fools began in France, paper fish are stuck to people’s backs symbolizing a person being gullible like fish who gets caught easily.

April Fools

Ready to be pranked? Whether you’re pranking or being pranked, there’s no shortage of tricks to be found every April Fools – especially with big companies joining in the fun. From a company standpoint, April Fools is a great way to get your target audience involved and at your door in a fun way. One example would be the 1998 Burger King ad for the “Left-Handed Whopper.” Though diners couldn’t purchase the “Left-Handed Whopper” it nonetheless got them to Burger King where they most likely purchased another meal instead. Like any prank though, companies should be careful about their execution of it. Google is notorious for its participation in April Fools – a throwback to when they let us play Ms. Pac-Man on Google Maps in 2017 – not all have landed well. In 2016, Google’s prank left many users unhappy. The prank involved a new Gmail button – “Send + Mic Drop” – that when clicked sent a gif of the minion character from Despicable Me to the recipient. Many users accidentally clicked this button when replying to work-related emails subsequently unintentionally sending their bosses, colleagues, clients, etc. the minion gif when not appropriate. Google ended up having to pull the feature early and issue a mass apology. This failed prank served as a good learning experience for all companies looking to join in on the April Fools fun. It can also serve as a good reminder for everyone to run a test run before fully launching an idea. But that’s just our opinion.

Danielle’s Corner

National Brunch Month All my brunch lovers rejoice – April is National Brunch Month! I feel like anything can be a “National something Month” these days, but as a brunch lover, I’m not complaining. Don’t let the April showers dampen your vibe. Hit up your favorite indoor brunch spot or do your own little fun brunch spread at home. Nothing says you need to spend $15 on avocado toast at that cute café down the road – but if that’s what you want don’t let me stop you. Below is a link to some of my favorite treats recipes – courtesy of Good Housekeeping – to whip up for my family and friends when I want to host an impromptu brunch:

For those with a sweet tooth: PB Chocolate Sheet Pan Pancake and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Something savory: Breakfast Tacos and Green Eggs and Ham ‘Wiches
Coffee Lovers: Hazelnut Mocha Frappé

Whether you feel like cooking at home or going out, be sure to treat yourself to a much-deserved brunch! I know I will.

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

April 6, 2022

2022 Energy Benchmarking Best Practices & Evolving Requirements

Navigating the Energy Benchmarking World

As of the start of 2022, ENERGY STAR’s website reflects over 40 different existing Energy Benchmark programs in the United States. With 40+ Energy programs nationwide, it can feel like you’re in a maze trying to identify and meet your building’s specific requirements. When it comes to determining your exact Energy Benchmark program there are three common details you’ll need to know: location, property type, and size. Once you’ve taken those three factors into account, you’ll know if you’re required to file, to whom, and by when.

First up, location. It is important to note that in a single state, there can be both local and statewide Energy Benchmark programs. In most cases where there is a city and state program, the city’s program will take priority over the state’s program. Only in some cases will the state’s Benchmark precede over the cities. Two common reasons this can occur is either the city has not yet added the property to their program, or the building meets the state’s requirements but not the city’s. The following is a list of all existing state programs and whether there is also a local Energy Benchmark programs as well*:

State	City and State Benchmark?
Alabama	No
California	Yes
Colorado	Yes
Connecticut	Yes
Delaware	No
Michigan	No
New Jersey	No
New Mexico	No
New York	Yes
Ohio	Yes
Oregon	Yes
Pennsylvania	Yes
Texas	Yes
Virginia	No
Washington	Yes
West Virginia	Yes

*Note: Again, the above list is not a comprehensive list of all existing Energy Benchmark programs in the U.S. It is just a list of programs where both state and local programs exist. There are local programs that do not have programs at the state level.

As each Benchmark program is different, knowing the gross floor area (GFA sq. ft.) and property type will further narrow down your requirements. Some Benchmark programs apply to all properties over a certain GFA, while others are only applicable to certain property types such as commercial and/or multifamily. Once you’ve determined your local and/or state program, you’ll want to see if those programs apply to your property type. If it does, then you will use your building’s GFA as the deciding factor. Typically, the local and state programs will have slightly different GFA requirements with local programs having lower GFA (sq. ft.) requirements. This helps make differentiating between the two programs easier for building owners. This doesn’t mean that all local and state programs will have different minimum GFA requirements – there are some with the same size requirements. As previously mentioned, when this occurs your property will most likely file to its local Energy Benchmark program unless the local level does not pertain to your property type (i.e., manufacturing) or has not yet added your building to their list.

Knowing your deadline requirements doesn’t necessarily mean filing will be straightforward. With over 10 years of experience filing, our experts have seen our fair share of common mistakes by building owners trying to file on their own. This is especially the case when there is no prior knowledge of Energy Benchmarks and in new and upcoming programs. Let Vert Energy Group help you. On March 15^th at 10 am PST, we are offering a group webinar session for building owners and property managers to learn more about the various nationwide Energy Benchmark requirements. During the session, you’ll get a crash course on Benchmarking requirements and pitfalls, get answers to all your pressing questions, and see just how easy filing can be when working with us. Spots are limited so you’ll want to act fast. Click here to claim a spot before they’re all gone.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing” – Walt Disney

Upcoming 2022 Energy Benchmark Deadlines

Spring is right around the corner and so are the spring Energy Benchmark deadlines. From April 1^st through May 20^th, there are 13 different Energy Benchmarks programs due. Three out of those 13 programs are due on April 1^st – that’s just a month away. Below is a chart of the fast-approaching spring deadlines:

April Deadlines
City	Deadline
San Francisco Existing Commercial Buildings Energy Performance Ordinance (SF EBO)	April 1, 2022
Washington Clean & Affordable Energy Act of 2008 (Washington, DC)	April 1, 2022
Washington State Senate Bill 5854 (SB5854)	April 1, 2022
May Deadlines
City	Deadline
Cambridge Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance	May 1, 2022
Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance	May 1, 2022
New York City Local Law 84 (NYC LL84)	May 1, 2022
Orlando Building Energy & Water Efficiency Strategy (Ordinance 2016-64)	May 1, 2022
Portland Energy & Water Use Performance Benchmarking Ordinance (Maine)	May 1, 2022
Saint Louis Building Energy Awareness Bill	May 1, 2022
Salt Lake City Elevate Buildings	May 1, 2022
San Jose Energy & Water Building Performance Ordinance (SJ BPO)	May 1, 2022
Boston Energy Reporting & Disclosure Ordinance	May 15, 2022
Chula Vista Building Energy Saving Ordinance	May 20, 2022

If you have properties in San Francisco, Washington DC, and Washington State and have not yet begun your reports by now, you’re cutting it extremely close to the April 1st deadline. Even for all other programs with late April through May deadlines, you don’t want to wait till the last minute to start. Much of the filing process is reliant on the cooperation of the utility companies’ ability to process data requests. It can take approximately utility companies anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to complete a single data request. The closer the deadline gets we expect that the utilities will see an influx of requests that can potentially back up their processing times. The longer you wait to file, the higher your chances of receiving potential violations for noncompliance gets.

Avoid noncompliance by signing up with VertPro® today. Simply register on VertPro.com and add your property to get started. Our experts recommend having copies of your utility bills on hand to help complete your VertPro® registration. All returning clients can login to continue to your 2022 VertPro dashboard. For any questions or help getting started, call us Monday-Friday 7 am-5 pm PST at (415) 912-1523 or email us at support@vertpro.com. Our team of experts is ready to help you file.

“Getting the right people in the right jobs is a lot more important than developing a strategy.” – Jack Welch

Finding the Right Contractor

It’s not news that upgrades and improvements are beneficial to a property. Upgrading a building’s features helps with a multitude of things depending on the project. Common benefits seen from upgrades include occupant safety and satisfaction, long-term savings, increased market value, compliance with city and state laws, etc. It’s one thing to plan a building improvement, but it’s another thing to execute it. Finding the right contractor is key to ensuring your vision is carried out. Whether you’re looking to start a new building upgrade or continue an already ongoing project, Vert Energy Group can help. From roofing, plumbing, asphalt, balconies, upgrades, turnkey projects, new construction, interior fit-outs, site improvements, renovations, and everything in between we’ll find you the right general contractor. All you need to do is post your project on VertPro® Upgrades and then sit back and relax while we do the rest. Our team of experts will research and compile a list of bids from eligible and suitable contractors to take on your project. From there you’ll have your pick of the lot and be one step closer to seeing your project come to fruition. Post your upcoming general project on VertPro® Upgrades today and start getting bids.

Fun Fact: Leprechauns may be associated with Saint Patrick’s Day, but they have their own holiday – Leprechaun Day – which falls on May 13^th each year.

Luck of the Irish

Saint Patrick’s Day was once a celebration honoring Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick, and has since become a day to celebrate the Irish culture. Since the popularization of Saint Patrick’s Day, there has been less focus on Saint Patrick and more on the mythical creatures from Irish folklore, leprechauns. In Irish folklore, leprechauns are depicted as little people the fairies would pay in gold coins to fix their shoes. Leprechauns would keep these coins in hidden large pots so that no one could find them. Legends state that the reason no one can find a leprechaun’s pot of gold is that it is at the end of a rainbow and since rainbows never end it will never be found. Some say that if you’re able to catch a leprechaun, you can try to coerce it into revealing the hiding spot. Tread lightly though as leprechauns are notorious tricksters that you don’t want to be on the wrong side of should they decide to use their magic for evil intentions.

Danielle’s Corner

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

In 1987, President Ronald Regan proclaimed that March would be Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month. According to the CDC, developmental disabilities include – but are not limited to – ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, hearing loss and/or vision impairment, intellectual and/or learning disability, and other developmental delays. In the U.S. alone, it is estimated that “one in six, or about 17%, of children” between 3-17 years old have developmental disabilities. To help raise awareness surrounding the American developmental disabilities community the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), and the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) spearhead a joint social media campaign each March. Through the campaign, the organizations work to highlight the communities needs and potential contributions. The imagery for 2022’s campaign features artwork from individuals in the developmental disabilities community while the actual campaign shares stories from those with and without disabilities and their experiences. While it’s already the end of the month, it’s not too late to view this year’s submissions. Head on over to NACDD’s Facebook or twitter – both @NACDD – or search the following #DDawareness2022, #DDAM2022, or #WorldsImagined to see all the amazing stories.

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

There are over 30 cities/states with Energy Benchmark requirements – 16 have Energy Audit requirements as well! Use this free tool to check if your building has an upcoming Energy Benchmark or Energy Audit deadline.

March 2, 2022

Tag: Vert Energy

New Evolving Energy Efficiency Laws

“In reality, studies show that investments to spur renewable energy and boost energy efficiency generate far more jobs than oil and coal.”-Jeff Goodell

Upcoming Energy Audits deadlines for (LA, SF, SJ, Austin Tx, Seattle WA, Atlanta GA, Boston, Washington State)

Fines or Violations for missed Energy Benchmark Deadlines

Quote: “Energy-saving technologies keep improving faster than they’re applied, so efficiency is an ever larger and cheaper resource.” – Amory Lovins

Top 10 Vert Employees Halloween Movies

Fun Fact:

Stephanie’s Section

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

Changing Landscape of Energy Efficiency

Beginning in 2023, VertPro® will be switching to online payments only, following suit with paper-free companies such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. Join the paper-free revolution with VertPro® and enjoy all the same benefits in a more environmentally friendly way!

Mountain View Seismic Ordinance

New Energy Benchmark Laws for 2023

“I have a firm belief in the ability and power of women to achieve the things they want to achieve” – Eleanor Roosevelt

A Brief History of Labor Day

Fun Fact: As of 2021, 65% of Americans believe there is intelligent life on other planets!

Stephanie’s Section

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

Vert Energy Group – Paper-free in 2023

“By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail” – Benjamin Franklin

New Webinar: 6 Pitfalls to Avoid During Construction Projects

Post a Project for a Chance to WIN an Apple Watch

“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today” – Malcolm X

The Heat of Summer is at its Peak and Will Soon Cool Down

Stephanie’s Section

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

Energy Benchmark Fines And Violations

City/State Energy Benchmark Fines and Violations for Non-Compliance

“The risk management on the front end of things are hard dollars sometimes for owners to spend. It’s kind of like putting a new roof on your house. You have to do it, otherwise you can save the money but eventually it’s all going to catch up to you.” – Michael Klutho

NYC Local Law 11 (LL11) – Facade Inspection & Safety Program

Fun Fact: 3pm is the official time of observance every Memorial Day in the U.S.

Memorial Day

Fun Fact: According to a 2021 YouGov poll, the most popular Mother’s Day gift that mothers wanted were flowers followed closely by sharing a special experience with their family.

Danielle’s Corner

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

Energy Benchmarking Deadlines are Almost Here

“The easiest way to save money is to waste less energy” – Barack Obama

Energy Audits and Retro-Commissioning (RCx)

“The first thing we can do as individuals and as communities, like a school or a university or a church, is cut our energy use. Do an energy audit or measure our carbon footprint.” – Katharine Hayhoe

VertPro® Subscription Services Available Now

Fun Fact: When April Fools began in France, paper fish are stuck to people’s backs symbolizing a person being gullible like fish who gets caught easily.

April Fools

Danielle’s Corner

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

2022 Energy Benchmarking Best Practices & Evolving Requirements

Navigating the Energy Benchmarking World

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing” – Walt Disney

Upcoming 2022 Energy Benchmark Deadlines

“Getting the right people in the right jobs is a lot more important than developing a strategy.” – Jack Welch

Finding the Right Contractor

Fun Fact: Leprechauns may be associated with Saint Patrick’s Day, but they have their own holiday – Leprechaun Day – which falls on May 13th each year.

Luck of the Irish

Danielle’s Corner

Search by Zip to Find Applicable Energy Laws

Fun Fact: Leprechauns may be associated with Saint Patrick’s Day, but they have their own holiday – Leprechaun Day – which falls on May 13^th each year.