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  • 7 Factors to Consider when Choosing a Commercial Roofing Contractor

    7 Factors to Consider when Choosing a Commercial Roofing Contractor

    Whether you’re building a new roof or looking to re-roof your commercial property, choosing the right contractor is important. Not all roofers are created equal, and it’s critical that you select one who is experienced, reliable and trustworthy when it comes to tackling commercial roofs. Here are 7 factors that can help you determine which commercial roofing contractor best fits your needs.

    Who are Roofing Contractors?

    Roofing contractors are professionals who specialize in installing, repairing and maintaining roofs. An experienced and skilled contractor can take on many projects – from small repairs to complete overhauls – to keep roofs safe from water infiltration and other damage caused by storms, hail, snow and ice. Professional roofers use a wide range of specialized techniques to ensure the installation is done properly. Similarly they also have the proper tools to conduct detailed inspections when conducting repairs or maintenance.

    Roofing contractors assess the current state of each project and advise customers on the ideal materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal tiles or clay tiles, depending on their budget and needs. With their expert knowledge and experience, professional roofers offer solutions that meet stringent building codes while ensuring a long lasting roof.

    What is The Cost of Hiring Commercial Roofing Companies?

    Hiring a commercial roofing company can add value to your business, but it is important to consider the cost. Professional roofing services typically charge by square foot or linear foot, and there are other factors that can drive up the cost of a job. For example, how extensive the repairs are, how many layers the business wants to be removed and replaced, if a building requires flashing installed, and what kind of materials are used.

    It is also wise to factor in tools and disposal costs as well as additional unforeseen expenses that may come up. Fortunately, hiring professional commercial roofing companies will ensure quality repairs completed in a timely manner, and you can always identify ways to stay within budget without compromising quality or safety.

    7 factors to consider when choosing a commercial roofing contractor

    Here are is what you should know before choosing a roofing service provider:

    Experience and Reputation

    Before hiring a roofing contractor, it is essential to ensure that they have the necessary experience and reputation in the industry. Look at their portfolio to ensure they have successfully completed similar projects. Research customer reviews and ratings for past projects to get an idea of how well the roofer can get the job done.

    Insurance and License

    Ensure the roofer is licensed and insured to carry out the work in your area. Ask for proof of insurance before you sign any contracts or agreements, as this protects you from liability if anything goes wrong during the project.

    Price

    Don’t just opt for the lowest bidder when it comes to roofing. Ensuring that you are getting quality workmanship at a fair price is important. Get quotes from several different contractors and compare prices before making your decision.

    Materials

    The materials used in the project should be of the highest quality available, as this will ensure that your roof lasts longer. Make sure to ask about the type of materials being used and verify all meets local building codes.

    Warranty

    Most reputable contractors offer warranties on their workmanship, so it is important to ensure you get one. This will cover any issues that may arise in the future, so you can rest assured that your roof will be in good condition.

    Communication

    Ensure that the chosen contractor is open and willing to communicate with you throughout the project. Ask them questions about their methods and processes so that you can make informed decisions about your roofing needs. This also gives you the opportunity to gauge how well you work together.

    Safety

    The most important factor to consider when hiring a commercial roofer is safety. Ask about the contractor’s safety standards and procedures to ensure they follow all relevant regulations and laws. You don’t want any accidents or injuries occurring on your property, so be sure to determine what measures the roofer takes to ensure everyone’s safety.

    By taking the time to consider each of these factors, you can make an informed decision when it comes to selecting a commercial roofing contractor. Doing your research upfront will pay off in the long run and ensure that your roof is installed properly and in a timely manner.

    Benefits Of Hiring Commercial Roofing Services

    Roofing contractors provide a wide range of services and can be an excellent resource for homeowners. Here are some of the benefits that come with hiring roofing contractors:

    1. Expertise and Experience – Roofing contractors have years of experience in their field and understand the different types of roofs available and the materials needed to complete the job. Their experience and knowledge can help you get the most out of your roofing project.

    2. Licensed and Insured – Roofing contractors are required to be licensed in their state, and many also carry additional insurance policies as well. This provides additional peace of mind for building owners that any potential damages will be covered should a problem arise.

    3. Quality Materials and Products – Roofing contractors use high-quality materials for all their projects, ensuring that your roof will last for years. They also have access to a wide range of products, allowing you to customize your roof however desired.

    4. Cost-Effective Solutions – Roofing contractors can access discounted materials, labor costs, and other resources that help them keep their rates competitive. This means you can get the best possible deal on your roofing project.

    5. Accurate Estimates – Roofers are experienced in providing accurate estimates for any size job. This allows you to budget accordingly for your project, ensuring you have enough funds to cover the costs of your new roof.

    By hiring a qualified, experienced roofing contractor, building owners can rest assured that their projects will be completed on time and with quality results. With these benefits, it’s easy to see why so many people enlist professionals’ help when they need a new roof.

    Why Are The Best Roofing Contractors Important?

    Roofing contractors are essential for any roofing project. They have the necessary skills and expertise to install or replace a roof and have their own tools and materials. A roofing contractor can provide important advice on roofing installation and repair, ensuring that roofing projects are done properly with quality materials.

    Moreover, roofing contractors carry liability insurance, so you’ll be protected if an accident or mishap occurs during the roofing job. In short, roofing contractors provide invaluable knowledge regarding roof repair and installation and valuable protection against potential damages or injuries.

    How To Find A Licensed Roofing Contractor?

    Finding a licensed roofing contractor is important in ensuring your home is in tip-top condition. By doing your research and interviewing a few potential contractors, you can feel more confident about choosing one with the right credentials, experience and references.

    Make sure to check that all contractors have valid state licensure, proof of insurance, and at least three recent client references before meeting with them individually or getting a quote. You should also review the contractor’s portfolio, if available, to get an idea of their work. Ultimately, selecting the best fit for you means knowing what you want upfront and having patience as you make all necessary inquiries before making a decision.

    The Final Verdict

    If you are a business owner needing commercial roofing repairs or replacements, do your research before hiring a contractor. By considering the seven factors listed above, you can be sure to find a reputable and qualified contractor who will get the job done right. Contact Vert Energy Group today for more information or to schedule a consultation.

  • Vert Energy Group – New York City Local Law 97 Compliance Due this Year

    Vert Energy Group – New York City Local Law 97 Compliance Due this Year

    New York City Local Law 97 is a subset of the Climate Mobilization Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the city. Mayor de Blasio has pledged to address these emissions as part of his plan to make the city carbon neutral by 2050. The goal of Local Law 97 is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by New York City’s largest buildings by 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Buildings account for approximately two-thirds, or 70%, of New York City’s total greenhouse gas emissions making them a critical area for reduction.

    Local Law 97 (LL97) is a green energy policy that requires most buildings over 25,000 square feet to meet new energy efficiency limits and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 2024, with even stricter limits coming into effect by 2030. Local Law 97 generally covers the following buildings, with some exceptions:

         • Buildings that exceed 25,000 gross square feet

         • Two or more buildings on the same tax lot that together exceed 50,000 square feet

         • Two or more buildings owned by a condo association that are governed by the same board of managers and that together exceed 50,000 square feet

    LL97 requires buildings to meet specific emissions limits, which vary based on the type of building and its occupancy. The limits are expressed in pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent per square foot per year (CO2e/sf/yr). Building owners who fail to comply with Local Law 97 will face significant penalties. The penalty for non-compliance is $268 per metric ton of CO2e which exceeds the building’s emissions limit. For a building that is 50,000 square feet and exceeds its emissions limit by 100 metric tons of CO2e, the penalty would be $26,800 per year. The penalties can add up quickly, making compliance a top priority for building owners and operators.

        • 1st Deadline is 2024 (+ additional 40% reduction required by 2030.)

        • Penalty for non-compliance: $268 per metric ton over the limit

    The first compliance deadline is quickly approaching, and building owners and operators must act quickly to ensure compliance. Here’s why:

         • 2022 = Plan & Implement Energy Upgrades

         • 2023 = Plan & Implement Energy Upgrades (Last chance to make upgrades)

         • 2024 = 1 full year of proven energy reduction

         • 2025 = Will determine if you are in compliance based on the 2024 Benchmark Report

    Local Law 97 is one of the most ambitious plans for reducing emissions in the nation, and to comply with LL97, building owners and operators must take a multi-pronged approach. The first step is to benchmark the building’s energy consumption and compare the building’s energy use to that of similar buildings. Building owners must submit this benchmarking data annually to the city, as required by Local Law 84. Local Law 84 requires that property owners submit a Benchmarking report annually for all properties over 25,000 square feet to adjust any areas of excessive energy consumption data or mismanagement.

    Local Law 88, imposed by the department of buildings in NYC, established lighting upgrade and submetering requirements. Local Law 87 mandates buildings over 50,000 gross sq. ft. to undertake intensive yet periodic energy audits and retro-commissioning measures. Building owners must conduct an energy audit and submit an Energy Efficiency Report every 10 years that outlines any energy savings opportunities found during the energy audit. Conducting an energy audit is the second step in complying with LL97 and is used to identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements.

    The audit must be conducted by a qualified professional and must comply with the requirements of Local Law 87 and will identify energy-saving measures that can be implemented to reduce the building’s emissions. Once the energy audit is complete, building owners must develop an emissions reduction plan that outlines the measures they will take to comply with Local Law 97. The plan must be submitted to the city for approval, and owners must implement the measures within a certain timeframe. This is why it is imperative you move quickly to complete your energy audit, submit plans to the city for approval (which can be time consuming) with enough time left to complete any upgrades prior to 2024, wherein you must have a full year of proven energy reduction. Some of the measures that can be implemented to comply with Local Law 97 include upgrading building systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), installing energy-efficient lighting, and improving building insulation. Building owners may also consider installing renewable energy systems such as solar panels or wind turbines to generate clean energy on-site.

    We asked experts in the field for insight into how Local Law 97 is affecting building owners and managers in terms of compliance and the difficulties in meeting the requirements of this law.

    “The first thing to grasp about this law is -does it, and to what extent affects you and your building. We began working with the planning and contributions to this local law nearly a decade ago. Local law 97 was since amended numerous times but formally in 2019 through the changes made by local law 147… After understanding if and to what extent this law affects you, the next step is to fully consume how and what changes are required so you can develop a phased strategy…In addition to these (described above) measurements there are required prescriptive or preventive and proactive activities. Some of these include:

         • Adjusting temp set points for heat and hot water

         • Reporting all heating system leaks

         • Maintaining a clean heating system in good operating condition

         • Installing insulation and temp controls for radiating heat units, and steam condensate tanks

         • Replacing or repairing steam traps

         • Indoor and outdoor heating system sensors for efficient temp control, proper set points in boiler operations

         • Upgrading legacy lighting systems to energy efficient systems

         • Weatherization and air sealing ducts, building envelopes and points of fenestration.

         • Installing timers on exhaust fans

         • Installing radiant barriers behind all radiators

    The city has set up parameters for forming a team of capable professionals and how to submit proof of scope completed. It is important to recognize a lack of submittal in addition to a false submittal accrue significant fines. False submittal have fine amounts of up to 500,000 and max fines include potential 30 day imprisonment. These laws are best phases and pre planned to spread costs across available budget.

    We typically see our clients pairing our lighting conversions with longer yield projects to immediately begin accruing energy savings as an offset. In general this law deals with reducing the energy consumption footprint within these systems HVAC, hot water, conveyance, lighting, electrical systems. We work strategically with our clients to maximize the impact of return on each dollar spent making these advances.” – K.A. Stacie Alexiou | Certified Energy Manager and CEO of WATT + FLUX

    “From our perspective as experts in the boiler and heating industry, compliance with LL97 has been challenging. There are some relatively economical solutions for building owners to reduce their boiler emissions, such as pipe insulation, new steam vents, lowering the steam pressure, and tuning burners. The issue is that the savings from these solutions do not come close to the aggressive emission targets outlined in LL97. To approach the targets, you may have to install a high-efficiency boiler or replace your current fossil fuel system with an electric alternative. Installing a new boiler today in a large building could cost over $100,000. Even with a new boiler, there is no guarantee that the new boiler will hit the LL97 target.

    In some cases, the property owners remove their boilers and current heating system in favor of an electric system. Though this may work in some instances, there are many reasons why this is not practical. Running the outdoor condensers and refrigerant piping destroys the aesthetic of the building facade. Finding the internal space for the indoor blowers in every room is also challenging. Some buildings lack the electrical power to support electric heating systems.

    NYC building owners are already under pressure due to existing regulations. Unless the electric heating technology advances, complying with LL97 will be a significant challenge.” –Vincent Caputo, Insparisk LLC

    Building owners and operators must take swift action to comply with the law’s emissions limits and avoid substantial fines. Get started on your compliance before it’s too late by scheduling a free consultation with a project advisor. Learn all the details of New York’s Local Law 97 and discuss best practices for improving your buildings’ energy efficiency. We can also get you multiple bids from various contractors, engineers, and specialists in our network. Schedule a consultation to see how VertPro® can help you execute your building’s upgrades and meet compliance for LL97.

    “Building owners are enthusiastic in my experience as the NYS and NYC Govts have put in place numerous incentives that are quite rich at the moment to help with compliance. Additionally, they are happy the changes will save them money long term” -Anthony Pereira: altPOWER

    Why You Should Start Your Benchmark Earlier

    As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, energy benchmarking has become an essential tool for businesses and organizations looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs. Energy benchmarking involves measuring and tracking a building’s energy usage over time and comparing it to similar buildings to identify opportunities for improvement. This can be a complicated process, especially if you’re benchmarking a large building or facility, as it requires gathering and analyzing a large amount of data, as well as interpreting that data in a meaningful way. If you are about to start energy benchmarking, here’s a few reasons why you should start sooner rather than later.

         • Identifying inefficiencies early can save you money – The earlier you start benchmarking your building’s energy usage, the sooner you’ll be able to identify any inefficiencies and start taking action to address them. This can save you money on energy costs in the long run, as well as help you avoid costly repairs or upgrades down the line.

         • It’s easier to implement changes when you have a baseline- By starting your energy benchmarking early, you’ll be able to establish a baseline for your building’s energy usage. This will make it easier to track changes over time and determine whether the changes you make are having a positive impact. It will also help you set realistic goals for reducing energy usage and establish a plan of action for achieving those goals.

         • You’ll be better prepared for future regulations- As governments around the world continue to implement regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy benchmarking is likely to become a requirement for many businesses and organizations. By starting your energy benchmarking early, you’ll be better prepared for any future regulations that may be implemented in your area.

         • You’ll be doing your part to help the environment- Reducing energy usage is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. By starting your energy benchmarking early, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.

    Ready to Start Benchmarking? Here’s what you need to know:

    One of the biggest challenges of benchmarking is gathering accurate and reliable data. This typically involves working with utility companies to obtain data on a building’s energy usage, which can be a time-consuming process. In some cases, utility companies can take 4-6 weeks or longer to send their data, which can delay the benchmarking process and make it more complicated, especially if you are required to comply by a specific deadline.

    The amount of time it takes to request utility forms for an energy benchmark can vary depending on several factors, including the specific utility company, the type of forms needed, and the method of request. In some cases, utility forms may be available online and can be downloaded and submitted immediately. In other cases, it may be necessary to contact the utility company directly to request the forms, which can take several weeks to receive. Once the forms have been requested and received, the time required to complete the energy benchmarking process will depend on the specific requirements of the analysis. Basic benchmarking analysis may only require a few weeks to complete, while more comprehensive analysis may take several months or longer.

    It is important to note that some utility companies may require additional information or documentation before providing the forms, which can add to the time required for the request. Additionally, if there are errors or discrepancies in the data provided on the forms, it may be necessary to request additional information or clarification, which can further delay the energy benchmarking process. To minimize delays and ensure a smooth and efficient energy benchmarking process, it is recommended to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for requesting and receiving utility forms. It may also be helpful to work with a qualified energy consultant or service provider who has experience with the energy benchmarking process and can help to streamline the data collection and analysis process.

    Another challenge of benchmarking is ensuring that the data you collect is accurate and reliable. This requires careful attention to detail and the use of specialized software and tools to analyze the data and identify patterns and trends. Interpreting the results of the benchmarking process can be challenging, as there are many factors that can influence energy use. For example, a building located in a hot climate may use more energy for cooling than a building located in a cooler climate. Similarly, a building that is used primarily during the day may use more energy for lighting than a building that is used primarily at night. To account for these and other factors, it may be necessary to perform a more detailed analysis of the data. This could involve the use of sophisticated software tools that can model the building’s energy use and simulate different scenarios.

    In addition to analyzing the data, it is also important to act based on the results of the benchmarking process. This may involve making changes to the building or facility to reduce energy use, such as upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment or improving insulation. Overall, energy benchmarking is a complicated process that requires a thorough understanding of building systems and energy use. It can be an important tool for identifying opportunities for energy savings, but it must be done carefully and accurately to produce meaningful results.

    Keeping up with various energy benchmarking regulations across the country can be complex and time-consuming. Energy Benchmarking does not have to be hard. VertPro® is proud to provide a Group Webinar on March 15th, 2023. This educational webinar discusses Evolving Energy Benchmark Requirements, 6 Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Benchmarking and Best Practices to Plan for 2023. Experts in Energy Benchmarking will show you how to complete a Benchmark, why it is important, who enforces it, and how VertPro® can help you with compliance. Sign up now for this educational Group Webinar on March 15, 2023 to learn more!

    Despite these challenges, benchmarking can be a valuable tool for businesses and organizations looking to reduce their energy usage and carbon footprint. While it can be a complicated process that requires careful attention to detail and specialized tools and software, by identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement, benchmarking can help businesses save money on energy costs, reduce their environmental impact, and improve the overall performance of their buildings and facilities.

    LA EBEWE Rescinds Tolling

    The LA EBEWE (Existing Buildings Energy and Water Efficiency) ordinance is a regulation passed by the city of Los Angeles, California, that aims to improve the energy and water efficiency of existing buildings in the city. As part of the ordinance, building owners are required to submit an annual report on their building’s energy and water usage, known as the EBEWE report.

    In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Los Angeles issued an emergency order in March 2020 that tolled (i.e., paused) the deadline for building owners to submit their 2019, 2020, and 2021 EBEWE Benchmark and A/RCx reports. This was done to provide relief to building owners who were facing difficulties in meeting the original deadline due to the pandemic.

    On February 28, 2023, the city of Los Angeles rescinded the tolling order, which means that the deadline to submit has been re-enacted. LADBS is in the process of preparing “reissued” notices to comply for the years/cycles that were tolled and for which a building has not yet complied. These reissued notices will provide 6 months to comply from the date of the Notices. This means building owners who have not yet submitted their benchmark reports for 2019-2021 are now required to do so within 6 months of receiving a reissued notice.

    Notices to comply that will be reissued are as follows:

         • Benchmark Program Years 2019, 2020, and 2021.

         • Audits & Retro-Commissioning (A/RCx) Compliance Years

             • CY 2021- buildings with an LABDS Building ID that ends in “0” or “1”

             • CY 2022-buildings with an LABDS Building ID that ends in “2” or “3”

    As a business owner in the Los Angeles area, you may be aware of the requirement for energy audits under the Los Angeles Existing Buildings Energy and Water Efficiency (EBEWE) program. As the tolling has been rescinded the deadline for energy audits that were due in 2021 and 2022 (with the above buildings ID’s) has been updated to September 2023.

    It’s worth noting that the LA EBEWE ordinance is an important tool in the city’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. By requiring building owners to report on their energy and water usage, the city can identify areas where improvements can be made and encourage building owners to take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

    Rescinding the tolling order is an important step in ensuring that building owners are held accountable for their energy and water usage and that the city can continue to make progress in its efforts to promote sustainability. While it may be an inconvenience for some building owners, it’s a necessary step in the fight against climate change. If you have not signed up for your initial site inspection for your 2021 or 2022 energy audit, do so now: EBEWE LA’s Existing Buildings Energy & Water Efficiency Program (vertpro.com), as scheduling will be limited and assigned by first come, first served. Don’t miss the upcoming compliance deadline!  See below for the complete City notice: 

    “LOSE AN HOUR IN THE MORNING, AND YOU WILL BE ALL DAY HUNTING FOR IT.― RICHARD WHATELY”

     

    History Behind the Blarney Stone

    If you’ve ever been to Ireland or read about its folklore, you’ve likely heard of the Blarney Stone. This mystical rock is said to give those who kiss it the gift of eloquence and the ability to persuade with words. But what is the Blarney Stone, and why is it so famous?

    The Blarney Stone is a block of limestone that is part of the battlements of Blarney Castle in County Cork, Ireland. The origins of the stone are shrouded in mystery, but it is said to have been brought to Ireland from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Legend has it that the stone was originally part of Jacob’s Pillow, which Jacob rested his head on when he dreamt of the ladder to heaven in the Bible.

    The Blarney Stone has been the subject of countless myths and legends over the centuries. One story says that the stone was once used as a seat by the goddess Cliodhna, who gave it to Cormac McCarthy, the king of Munster, in gratitude for his kindness. Another tale tells of a witch who was saved from drowning by a king, who then rewarded him with the stone.

    The tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone dates back to the 16th century. It is said that Queen Elizabeth I of England sent her envoy to Ireland to demand that the Irish chieftains submit to her rule. The chieftain of Blarney Castle, Cormac Teige McCarthy, was a skilled diplomat and managed to evade the envoy’s demands with his persuasive words. In appreciation, Queen Elizabeth I is said to have declared that anyone who visited Blarney Castle and kissed the stone would be blessed with the gift of eloquence.

    Today, visitors to Blarney Castle can climb to the top of the castle’s tower and lean backward over a parapet to kiss the Blarney Stone. It’s not an easy feat – the stone is located about 20 feet above the ground, and kissing it requires a certain amount of bravery and flexibility. But those who manage to do so are said to be granted the “gift of the gab” – the ability to speak persuasively and convincingly.

    Of course, the idea that kissing a stone can give you the gift of eloquence is purely a myth. There’s no scientific evidence to support the claim. But that hasn’t stopped millions of visitors from all over the world from making the journey to Blarney Castle to kiss the stone.

    The Blarney Stone is a fascinating piece of Irish folklore. Whether you believe in its powers or not, it’s worth a visit to Blarney Castle to see it for yourself. And who knows – maybe you’ll be inspired to give a stirring speech or win an argument after you’ve kissed the stone!

    Fun Fact: NYC is the most linguistically diverse city in the world.

    One of the most amazing facts about New York City is that it’s the most linguistically diverse city in the world. New Yorkers speak over 800 languages, and four in ten households speak at least one language other than English. After English, the top spoken languages are Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and Italian. Of the five boroughs, Queens is the most linguistically diverse neighborhood, not just in NYC but in the world. Source

    Stephanie’s Section

    Chat GPT

    Chat GPT, a growing phenomenon has the masses divided. Will it enhance or ruin? Let’s discuss…from a unique perspective. ChatGPT: A Breakthrough in Natural Language Processing

    Artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in recent years, with applications ranging from self-driving cars to image recognition. One area that has seen significant progress is natural language processing (NLP), which aims to enable computers to understand and generate human-like language. ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI, represents a breakthrough in this field.

    At its core, ChatGPT is a deep learning algorithm that has been trained on vast amounts of text data to learn the patterns and structures of natural language. This training process enables ChatGPT to understand the context and meaning behind text-based conversations and generate responses that are fluent and coherent, often indistinguishable from those of a human. This is achieved through a technique called transformer-based language modeling, which allows the model to consider the entire context of the conversation and generate responses that are appropriate and relevant.

    One of the most significant features of ChatGPT is its ability to learn from vast amounts of data, which enables it to continually improve its responses over time. This means that the more data that is fed into the model, the better it becomes at generating accurate and relevant responses.

    The applications for ChatGPT are numerous and varied. One of the most common uses is in chatbots, which are automated systems that can interact with users through text-based conversations. By integrating ChatGPT into chatbots, businesses can provide more efficient customer service and reduce the need for human operators. Chatbots can also be used to assist with tasks such as appointment scheduling and order tracking.

    Another application of ChatGPT is in language translation. By training the model on multiple languages, it can be used to translate text between different languages, enabling users to communicate with people who speak different languages. This can be especially useful for businesses that operate in multiple countries or for individuals who travel frequently.

    ChatGPT can also be used for content creation by generating text based on a given prompt. This can be useful for writing articles, social media posts, and other forms of content. By generating content that is relevant and engaging, businesses can improve their online presence and attract more customers.

    In addition to its practical applications, ChatGPT represents a significant step forward in our understanding of natural language processing. By developing a language model that can generate human-like responses, we are one step closer to achieving true artificial intelligence.

    However, as with any technology, there are also potential risks associated with the use of ChatGPT. One concern is that the model may be used to generate fake news or propaganda, which could have serious consequences for society. Additionally, there is the risk of bias in the training data, which could result in the model generating responses that are discriminatory or offensive.

    Overall, ChatGPT represents a significant advancement in the field of natural language processing and has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with computers and technology. While there are certainly risks associated with its use, the benefits of this technology are clear, and it is likely that we will see continued development and refinement of language models like ChatGPT in the years to come.

    I asked ChatGPT to “Write an article explaining ChatGPT from your perspective” and you just read what it came up with. After reading, what do you think? Scary? Life Changing? Ahead of its time? You tell us.

    Want your Make Your Building Green? Get an Energy Audit! »

    Energy Compliance, Nationwide 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.

    FIND OUT HERE »
  • Guide to San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

    Guide to San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

    Are you tired of locating the best available energy data for San Francisco? If so, then look no further! Our guide to San Francisco’s energy benchmarking portal has all the necessary information. We’ll take you through each step with ease, clearly outlining what is needed to understand better and improve your building or portfolio’s energy use. With our help, you’ll be able to access actionable insights from real-time and historical performance metrics. Whether optimizing existing systems or developing new projects – our guide will show how this portal can provide a competitive advantage over other cities worldwide!

    What Is San Francisco Energy Benchmarking?

    San Francisco Energy Benchmarking is a citywide initiative to provide San Francisco building owners with a way to measure and report their properties’ energy use. This groundbreaking program helps property owners save money on energy costs by tracking their usage and making informed decisions about sustainability improvements. It uses benchmarking software to compare a building’s energy performance to similar buildings in the area, allowing property owners to identify areas where they can reduce waste and increase efficiency. The generated data allows property owners and policy-makers to make informed decisions regarding energy management practices that can help reduce the city’s greenhouse gas emissions while saving money in the long run.

    Who Can Comply With San Francisco Energy Benchmarking?

    Energy efficiency has never been easier in San Francisco, thanks to energy benchmarking! Energy benchmarking is the process of measuring energy consumption relative to energy performance standards. It’s a framework that lets folks know how much energy their building or structure uses compared to similar buildings.

    Anyone can use San Francisco’s energy benchmarking initiatives and tools; this includes property owners, building managers, real estate portfolio companies, and anyone else who needs to meet energy efficiency requirements. To get started with energy benchmarking in San Francisco, you’ll need access to the EPA’s Energy Star Portfolio Manager—a free online tool designed specifically for service providers and end users. With it, you can enter your building or structure’s information, such as location, square footage, and energy sources—as well as energy usage estimates— to easily track your progress on reaching greater energy efficiency goals.

    Guide To San Francisco Energy Benchmarking Portal

    San Francisco has recently released its online Energy Benchmarking Portal, a definitive guide that outlines the city’s Buildings Energy Performance Ordinance. As part of this ordinance, building owners and operators in San Francisco must request energy usage data from tenants annually. This information allows the city of San Francisco to understand better how and why buildings use energy, enabling them to develop more efficient solutions while keeping costs down. With the San Francisco Energy Benchmarking Portal, building owners receive energy benchmarks for their own units and information about local resources, incentives, programs, and other best practices related to energy efficiency.

    What Are Requirements For San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

    For energy benchmarking in San Francisco, energy use data must be reported to the Department of Environment every three years. Energy performance metrics must be compared to similar buildings using energy scorecard metrics. Furthermore, energy auditors with sufficient training, experience, and expertise must perform energy audits and commission energy efficiency retrofits in compliance with city building energy efficiency requirements. Buildings entering the Energy Scorecard program must meet specific size and electrical energy use criteria. At the same time, all other structures are subject to voluntary benchmarking, giving landlords serious incentives to evaluate how their buildings are performing regarding energy use.

    Deadline For San Francisco Energy Benchmarking Report

    SF Energy Benchmarking ReportAre you a building owner in San Francisco? If so, don’t miss the energy benchmarking report deadline! Every year, owners of non-residential buildings over 10,000 square feet can participate in energy benchmarking. The goal is to assess energy performance and decrease energy use with energy efficiency upgrades. All energy benchmarking reports must be completed by June 1st in order to comply with the regulations set by the California Energy Commission and receive their Energy Star Score. Using the data gathered from this report, owners will have all the information they need to identify energy-saving opportunities in their facility and make meaningful investments to improve energy efficiency. Get started today on meeting this important deadline for your energy benchmarking report!

    Penalty For San Francisco Energy Benchmarking Report

    The San Francisco energy benchmarking report is a vital measure of how energy is used in buildings and commercial spaces throughout the city. There are serious consequences for households and businesses that fail to comply with these standards. Non-compliance can lead to a civil penalty fine ranging from three hundred to six thousand dollars. Additionally, failure to submit the necessary online forms annually can result in administrative fines of up to five thousand dollars for each violation. Citizens of San Francisco and business owners must take responsibility and ensure compliance with this essential city policy—otherwise, financial penalties may apply.

    Benefits Of San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

    Let’s have a look at the benefits:

    1. Increased Productivity: San Francisco energy benchmarking is an effective way to reduce energy consumption in buildings and save money as a result. By tracking and analyzing building energy data, businesses can make informed decisions about improving efficiency and reducing costs. This improved efficiency can increase employee productivity, allowing them to focus their efforts on more important tasks.

    2. Improved Environmental Impact: San Francisco energy benchmarking helps reduce the energy consumed in buildings and make them more sustainable. By using less energy, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and help to slow the rate of climate change. This can have a positive impact on both people and the environment.

    3. Money Saved: San Francisco energy benchmarking can help businesses save money on their energy bills. By reducing the energy used in buildings, businesses can reduce their monthly costs and put that money toward other initiatives. This can have a positive effect on the bottom line and help to improve profitability.

    4. Increased Awareness: Doing an energy audit on a building can help raise employees’ awareness about how their energy consumption affects the environment. This improved understanding can lead to more responsible energy use, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

    5. Improved Building Performance: Businesses can identify areas where improvements can be made by tracking and analyzing building energy data. This could include things like replacing old equipment with more efficient models, improving insulation, or installing solar panels. All these improvements can lead to better building performance and a higher comfort level for occupants.

    Overall, San Francisco energy benchmarking offers numerous benefits for businesses in terms of improved efficiency, reduced costs, and increased sustainability. By taking the time to track and analyze energy data, businesses can make informed decisions about reducing their energy consumption and making their buildings more efficient. This can lead to improved productivity, environmental impact, and money saved in the long run.

    Things To Consider When Complying With San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

    Complying with San Francisco Energy BenchmarkingHere is what you should consider when complying with San Francisco benchmarking:

    1. Energy Audits: An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of your building’s current energy use and can help identify potential areas for improvement. Make sure to take advantage of this service, as it can help you meet the benchmarking requirements more efficiently.

    2. Benchmarking: San Francisco requires a full analysis on a building’s benchmarking performance, as well as the potential for improvement. Make sure to keep track of any changes you make so that it can be reflected in the analysis.

    3. Reporting: San Francisco requires annual energy reports on buildings larger than 10,000 square feet. Accurately tracking and reporting energy use is essential for meeting the benchmarking requirements.

    4. Documentation: Keep detailed records of all energy-efficient upgrades for your building, such as new equipment, insulation, or lighting changes. This documentation will be necessary when filing annual reports.

    5. System Upgrades: It may be necessary to upgrade existing systems, such as HVAC and lighting, to meet the benchmarking requirements. Make sure to research your options and choose upgrades that provide maximum efficiency and cost savings.

    6. Financing: San Francisco provides incentives for energy-efficient upgrades, such as rebates or grants. Leverage these resources to improve your building’s efficiency cost-effectively.

    7. Compliance: Make sure to stay up-to-date on all the benchmarking requirements. San Francisco occasionally changes the rules, so it’s important to comply with all regulations.

    Following these guidelines will help ensure that your building meets and exceeds the San Francisco Energy Benchmarking standards. Taking a proactive approach and making small changes can save time, money, and energy in the long run.

    Conclusion

    The City of San Francisco has made it easy for building owners to find out how their buildings measure up in terms of energy performance with the Benchmarking Portal. With this valuable tool, you can track your progress over time and compare your building’s energy use to similar properties across San Francisco. Energy benchmarking can be a time-consuming and confusing process. Need help? VertPro® simplifies energy benchmarking for your entire portfolio! It’s as easy as 1,2,3! Sign up for free today at VertPro®.

    Making your property more energy efficient not only saves you money, but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps create a healthier environment for everyone. Log into the portal today and start benchmarking your property’s energy performance.

  • Understanding the Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Emission limits

    Understanding the Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Emission limits

    LA is setting the standard for green businesses, and understanding their energy benchmarking emission limits will ensure you don’t get left behind. Far more than an annoyance to business owners, failing to comply with these regulations can directly impact your reputation and wallet size! In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what LA’s rules are; when they apply; why it matters right now; plus how adhering to them might benefit everyone involved – from employees to customers alike!

    And if you’re serious about meeting standards across all sizes & sectors of organizations? Then check out our best practices advice at the end – everything a budding eco-friendly entrepreneur needs in one place. Learn today: live ‘green’ tomorrow!

    What Is LA Energy Benchmarking Emission Limit?

    LA has implemented a comprehensive energy benchmarking and emission limit policy to reduce its non-residential buildings’ greenhouse gas emissions. This program, EBEWE, allows building owners to measure their energy performance against similar structures or the city’s own settings over time.

    By implementing efficient technology and operations practices into the design of these policies, LA is creating an effective roadmap for improving energy efficiency in all aspects of commercial real estate ownership. Through this initiative, it can be seen that environmental stewardship plays a crucial role in driving economic growth throughout California and positively impacting global efforts toward climate change adaptation!

    Who Can Comply With LA Energy Benchmarking?

    LA Energy Benchmarking Compliance

    With rising energy costs, businesses in Los Angeles are keeping their eyes open for ways to save. The city’s benchmarking policy requires buildings bigger than 20,000 square feet to assess and upload data on water and energy use into Energy Star Portfolio Manager annually. This produces an easy-to-understand score denoting the building’s efficiency level – a higher score means better performance in being more environmentally responsible!

    With such a straightforward way of showing commitment towards sustainability goals while cutting back on expenses, LA organizations have plenty of reason to invest time and effort into establishing green practices that make them stand out as leaders in becoming sustainable powerhouse cities!

    Deadline For LA Energy Benchmarking Report

    Los Angeles energy benchmarking reports are due on June 1! Whether jointly or separately owned, many new and existing buildings over 20,000 square feet of gross floor area in Los Angeles must comply with the city’s energy benchmarking ordinance requirements. This includes performing energy audits and submitting energy performance data to California Energy Benchmarking.

    Different energy sources are included in these reports, such as electricity, oil, and natural gas; these energy sources must all be used in accordance with applicable energy standards outlined in the Los Angeles Municipal Code. Hurry and meet the deadline -June 1 is just around the corner!

    Understanding The Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Emission Limits

    The Los Angeles City Council has recently passed an ordinance, the LA Energy Benchmarking and Emission Limits Ordinance, that allows building owners in the local area to monitor their existing buildings’ energy consumption easily. With this greater level of detail concerning water usage and energy services performance available, they can assess precisely how well-equipped their establishments are for meeting these new standards set by authorities. This ordinance provides company proprietors with all the data needed to make meaningful upgrades so as to remain compliant with government regulations – a responsibility that now falls on them more than ever before!

    What Are Requirements for Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking?

    The City of Los Angeles has set a bold goal for achieving energy and water efficiency: mandating benchmarking throughout the city’s businesses and public facilities. By comparing annual gas, electricity, and other resource consumption from year to year at each facility and tracking their progress over time, we can effectively identify potential areas where cost savings – and emissions reductions! – are achievable. It’s an ambitious endeavor but one that carries a great promise; together, let us strive towards realizing increased resource conservation in our beloved hometown!

    The city of Los Angeles is committed to conserving resources and upholding established sustainability goals — an effort that begins with businesses consuming a significant amount of energy. To keep them informed on their resource use, organizations must provide year-over-year data reports -comprising baseline figures for the current period and comparison details from previous periods. With this requirement in effect, companies can competitively refer back to prior years’ numbers while making knowledgeable decisions along the way – ultimately resulting in positive outcomes toward growing green initiatives!

    Penalty For Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Report

    Los Angeles has taken a firm stance towards energy conservation, with the upcoming implementation of their ‘penalty for not filing energy benchmarking reports’ policy. Starting November 2020, commercial and multifamily buildings that are more than 20,000 square feet will be required to complete and submit energy usage reports on an annual basis.

    These reports simulate how much certain energy structures use yearly, allowing Los Angeles to track improvement and keep citizens accountable for meeting sustainability goals. Any buildings that do not meet this requirement by March 31st, 2021, the deadline will face a fine starting at $2 per day until the report has been completed and satisfactorily submitted. It’s a great step forward for the city as they pursue its 2020 goal of slashing carbon emissions by 45%.

    Benefits Of Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking

    Los Angeles Energy Benchmarking Benefits Here are the benefits of LA Benchmarking:

    1. Increases Transparency: LA Benchmarking increases transparency in energy use by providing clear data on how much energy is used and how it is distributed throughout the city, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions on their future energy usage.

    2. Improves Efficiency: As LA Benchmarking requires regular reporting from building owners, it encourages them to find ways to reduce energy usage through improved efficiency. This leads to lower operational costs and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

    3. Improves Building Value: Energy-efficient commercial and multifamily buildings are more attractive to tenants, investors, and buyers due to their lower operating costs. As LA Benchmarking requires energy audits, owners can use the results to make necessary improvements and increase the value of their properties.

    4. Supports Climate Action: LA Benchmarking helps the city meet its climate action goals by requiring commercial and multifamily buildings to become more energy efficient. This reduces the city’s carbon footprint, making it a leader in environmental stewardship.

    5. Increases Awareness: LA Benchmarking increases awareness of energy usage in commercial and multifamily buildings, providing building owners with the information they need to make informed decisions about their energy use. This encourages more efficient practices and helps create a sustainable future for Los Angeles.

    Overall, LA Benchmarking has numerous benefits for commercial and multifamily buildings, from improving efficiency and building value to supporting climate action and increasing awareness. It is an important tool in the city’s efforts to create a more sustainable future.

    Things To Consider When Complying With Energy Benchmarking

    Let’s check out:

    1. Understand the underlying purpose of energy benchmarking: The first step to successful compliance with an energy benchmark is to understand why you are doing it in the first place. Is this a requirement from a government agency or utility? Are you trying to save money on your energy bills? What metrics, such as energy intensity and carbon emissions, are you trying to improve?

    2. Choose the right benchmarking tool: There are various energy benchmarking tools available, each with different features and benefits. Make sure you choose a tool that will meet your specific needs, such as integrating other data sources or advanced reporting capabilities.

    3. Create an action plan: Before beginning any energy benchmarking project, it is important to create a comprehensive action plan that outlines the goals and steps necessary for optimal energy savings. This includes understanding energy usage patterns, setting energy targets, and determining how energy projects will be implemented.

    4. Monitor progress: Once your energy benchmarking project is underway, you need to track progress over time to ensure energy savings goals are being met. A good energy benchmarking tool should provide detailed energy data and reports that enable you to identify areas of improvement.

    5. Leverage available resources: The Los Angeles Department of Water & Power has developed energy efficiency programs and incentives to help businesses meet energy savings targets. Businesses can save energy and money by taking advantage of energy incentive programs, rebates, and audits.

    By understanding the purpose of energy benchmarking, choosing the right benchmarking tool, creating an action plan, monitoring progress, and leveraging available resources, businesses in Los Angeles can maximize their energy savings while complying with energy benchmarking regulations.

    Conclusion

    In order to help reduce emissions and protect our environment, businesses need to understand the LA energy benchmarking emission limits. With this knowledge, businesses can ensure they comply with these regulations and help create a cleaner and healthier world for us all.

  • Vert Energy Group – 2023 New Energy Benchmark Deadlines

    Vert Energy Group – 2023 New Energy Benchmark Deadlines

    All Energy Benchmark Deadlines for 2023

    With a new year comes new benchmarking laws and requirements! Starting in 2023, both New Jersey State and Miami, Florida will be adding to the already existing 54 city/states with benchmarking requirements around the country.

    New Jersey State Law will require benchmarks to be completed by October 1, 2023, while the “Building Efficiency 305” ordinance of Miami has various deadlines depending on the square footage of your building. Properties covered under Miami’s “Building Efficiency 305’ ordinance include multi-family and commercial buildings with 200,000 square feet or more to complete their initial compliance by June 30, 2023, and buildings between 100,000 sq. ft. and 199,999 sq. ft. to complete initial compliance by October 1, 2023. This new year also sees Colorado State adopting a new annual deadline of June 1, 2023.

    For L.A. building owners and property managers, it is very important to note, the previously instated Covid-19 protocols have been rescinded, and notices to comply for EBEWE deadlines will be reissued. “Effective February 28, 2023, in accordance with the end of the State of California COVID-19 emergency, I hereby rescind the public Order Under City of Los Angeles Emergency Authority issued on January 28, 2022. Notwithstanding this action, all entitlements already approved and still valid as of this date, or approved during the effective period…” – Mayor Karen Bass

    Based on this rescission action, the tolling of EBEWE deadlines will terminate on February 28, 2023. LADBS is in the process of preparing “reissued” notices to comply for the years/cycles that were tolled and for which building has not yet complied. These reissued notices will provide 6 months to comply from the date of the notices.

    Stay in the know and get started on your benchmark early, as it can take anywhere from 4-7 weeks to complete! Below is a compiled list of all benchmark deadlines based on the city/state laws:

     

    City/State

     

     

    2023 Energy Benchmark Deadlines

    Ann Arbor, MI

    June 1

    Atlanta, GA

    June 1

    Austin, TX

    June 1

    Berkeley, CA

    July 1

    Bloomington, MN

    June 1

    Boon, MA

    May 15

    Boulder, CO

    June 1

    Brisbane, CA

    May 15

    California (ate)

    June 1

    Cambridge, MA

    May 1

    Chicago, IL

    June 1

    Cincinnati, OH

    January 1

    Colorado (ate)

    June 1

    Columbus, OH

    June 1

    Denver, CO

    June 1 (Extended to
    August 1)

    Des Moines, IA

    July 1

    Edina, MN

    June 1

    Evanston, IL

    June 30

    Fort Collins, CO

    January 1

    Houston, TX

    January 1

    Indianapolis, IN

    June 1

    Kansas City, MO

    May 1

    Los Angeles, CA

    June 1

    Louisville, KY

    January 1

    Miami, FL

    June 1

    Miami-Dade County, FL

    January 1

    Minneapolis, MN

    June 1

    Montgomery County, MD

    June 1

    New Jersey, NJ

    October 1

    New Orleans, LA

    January 1

    New York City, NY

    May 1 (Extended to
    November 30)

    Ontario, Canada

    July 1

    Orlando, FL

    May 1

    Philadelphia, PA

    June 30

    Pittsburgh, PA

    June 1

    Portland, OR

    January 1

    Portland, ME

    May 1

    Providence, RI

    January 1

    Reno, NV

    July 1

    Saint Louis, MO

    May 1

    Saint Paul, MN

    January 1

    Salt Lake City, UT

    May 1

    San Diego, CA

    June 1

    San Francisco, CA

    April 1

    San Jose, CA

    May 1

    Seattle, WA

    July 1

    South Portland, ME

    May 1

    St. Louis Park, MN

    June 1

    Washington (State)

    April 1

    Washington, DC

    April 1

    “Formula for success: rise early, work hard, strike oil.” – J. Paul Getty

    2023 Energy Audit Deadlines

    With every coming year, we see energy audit requirements becoming more prevalent in cities/states across the United States. Energy audits take a significant time to complete so it is important to get started now! Outlined below are all energy audit deadlines for 2023.

     

    City/State

     

     

    Audit Deadlines for 2023

    Atlanta, GA

    Dec 31, 2023: Bldg IDs ending in “3”

    Austin, TX

    Time of Sale

    Berkeley, CA

    July 1, 2023: Bldgs 50,000 sq. ft. and larger

    Boston, MA

    December 31, 2023: Bldgs > 50,000 sq. ft.

    Boulder, CO

    June 1, 2023: Bldgs 30,000 to 49,999 sq. ft.

    Edina, MN

    June 1, 2023: Bldgs 50,000 to 99,999 sq. ft.

    Los Angeles, CA

    June 1, 2023: Bldg IDs ending in “4”

    Dec 1, 2023: Bldg IDs ending in “5”

    New York City, NY

    Dec. 31, 2023: Tax
    block number ending in “3”

    Salt Lake City, Utah

    Dec 31, 2023: Tax IDs
    ending in “4” and “5” and over 50,000 sq. ft.; Tax IDs ending in “2” and “3”
    and 25,000 – 49,999 sq. ft.

    San Francisco, CA

    Apr 1, 2023:
    Non-residential bldgs 10,000 to 24,999 sq. ft.

    San Jose, CA

    May 1, 2023: APNs
    ending in “4” and “5”

    South Portland, ME

    May 1, 2023: Bldgs >5,000 sq. ft.

    Seattle, WA

    Oct. 1, 2023: bldgs ≥ 200,000 sq. ft

    San Francisco Fire Horns 2023 Deadline

    The City of San Francisco requires all multi-family buildings to upgrade fire alarm systems to pass the “Pillow Test” to comply with the SFFC Section 1103.7.6.1.
    After several devastating apartment fires hit the City in 2016, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed legislation to seriously strengthen safety in multi-family properties. Most of these requirements went into effect shortly thereafter. However, a new mandate goes into effect on July 1, 2023 requiring a manual fire alarm system that would be more likely to wake sleeping residents.

    These new alarms are more effective not just because they are louder, it is due to the fact they use low-frequency horns or speakers that are more likely to wake a sleeping person. These lower frequencies require more energy to make them sound and unfortunately most existing fire alarm systems are not designed to handle the additional power required. Therefore, a new system will often be required to be installed before July 1, 2023.

    The deadline for multi-family housing is only a few months away, and this can often be a lengthy process. The city has stated that if the engineering drawings for the fire horn installation are submitted to the city before the deadline, you won’t be fined if the work is completed after. Get started today and receive multiple quotes for fire horn installation with VertPro® Upgrades. Join the other satisfied property management companies who have already complied with VertPro® Upgrades: https://vertpro.com/sf-fire-horn-reminder

    “Once an organization loses its spirit of pioneering and rests on its early work, its progress stops.”-Thomas J. Watson

    10 Unique and Quirky Things to do for Valentine’s Day

    This Valentine’s Day switch up your normal dinner and movie routine and do one of the following unique and quirky ideas to celebrate your loved one! Below are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing: 1. Hot Air Balloon Ride- Treat your loved one to a once in a lifetime experience this valentine’s day! See a new place or your hometown from a different perspective…literally! 2. Take a romantic road trip together. If you have the time and resources, take your sweetheart on a special trip to explore places that are unique and special to you as a couple. Pack up some snacks and plan for some stops along the way to make it extra special. 3. Plan a picnic at a scenic spot. Whether you prefer oceanside, mountainside, or even a lovely park nearby, find a spot to picnic and enjoy each other’s company in the great outdoors. Bring some of your favorite snacks and drinks with you to make it extra special. 4. Check out your local farmer’s market. Buy some fresh ingredients and cook an amazing meal together at home. This can be especially nice if you don’t normally get to spend much time in the kitchen together. 5. Spend the day antiquing and find a unique gift for each other. Whether you are looking for something big or small, antique stores can offer some truly special finds that will make a great lasting memory. 6. Go ice skating or rollerblading together. Enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise while trying something new. 7. Take a stroll through your favorite part of town and discover hidden gems that are local only to you. This can be an especially nice activity if there is a special place that has meaning in your relationship. 8. Visit a local museum or gallery and explore different works of art. Take in some new perspectives and spark conversations about your favorite pieces. 9. Go on a hunt for the best pizza in town and find out who really has the best pie. Enjoy trying different slices and talking about what you like best. 10. Volunteer for a local cause, that is important to you both. Give back to the community and feel good about making a difference. Explore our https://www.pulidodentalcare.com/procedures/medecines.html to discover a range of natural cosmetics crafted from plant-based ingredients at affordable prices. Experience professional skincare benefits from the first application of our cosmetic products, designed to nurture and enhance your skin’s health and vitality. Don’t have a special someone to celebrate with this Valentine’s Day? Don’t stress, instead take this opportunity to experience any of the above with family, friends, or even better, just yourself! Do something new and exciting you’ve been wanting to try!

    Fun Fact: No one knows who St. Valentine was

    Some say St. Valentine lived in Rome and was killed by emperor Claudius the second. He was said to be a priest and physician who was killed after being discovered as marrying couples as a way for men to avoid military service. Another theory is St. Valentine was a bishop in Terni, Italy, while there is also another possibility that both these stories…are about the same man. While we will never know for sure, and the Catholic church removed St. Valentine off the Roman Calendar in 1969, the church continues to recognize him as a saint, and we continue to celebrate our loved ones in his honor.

    Stephanie’s Section

    Share the Door Rose!

    With Valentine’s Day just around the corner…we wanted to talk about one of the most famous “love stories” ever. No, not “The notebook” …this one involves a much bigger boat. While far from the movies most notable storyline…. the great love story found in the movie adaption of “Titanic” has been the cause of contention for many in the last decade.  While the focus of the Titanic tragedy is a much larger and more important story, the love story invented for the movie adaption…has caused arguments across dinner tables, and friendships alike! The big issue: Rose not sharing the door!

    Recently, director James Cameron recreated the floating door scene to answer the question for once and all…. could rose have shared the door to save jack. The final answer: No! Armed with a team of scientists Cameron re-staged the scene to test everyone’s theory that jack could have survived on the door with rose. Cameron and his team tested four different hypotheses in which jack joined rose on the door. While in 2 out of 4 hypothesis’ jack was able to get onto the door, ultimately both were then subjected to the freezing temperatures of the water. In another hypothesis, Cameron notes that while jack is out of the water and stabilized “He got into a place where if we projected that out, he just might’ve made it until the lifeboat got there. Jack might’ve lived, but there’s a lot of variables. I think his thought process was, ‘I’m not going to do one thing that jeopardized her,’ and that’s 100 percent in character.” – James Cameron

    There you have it folks, directly from the director’s mouth, while jack might have physically been able to survive by climbing on the door with rose, his love for her would have never allowed him to risk her life. Which, if you think about it, is an even better love story. Source

    Want your Make Your Building Green? Get an Energy Audit! »

    Energy Compliance, Nationwide 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.

    FIND OUT HERE »
  • How Energy Benchmarking – Improves Building Performance

    How Energy Benchmarking – Improves Building Performance

    Do you use energy benchmarking to assess your building’s performance? If not, now is the time to start. Energy benchmarking can help you make the most of the energy usage in your building and save money in the process. In this blog post, we’ll explore why your business needs to invest in energy benchmarking and some key strategies to help improve your building’s efficiency over time. From reduced costs and increased comfort levels, there are countless benefits that come with improving a building’s performance—so let’s take a look!

    What Is Energy Benchmarking?

    Energy benchmarking is an important tool to help measure energy efficiency in buildings. It compares energy consumption levels of buildings against similar facilities, allowing for energy performance comparisons over time and aiding in energy conservation decisions.

    Through energy benchmarking, building owners and property managers can monitor energy usage trends to identify problems, find energy savings opportunities across their portfolio or facility, and track progress and investments over time. In addition to helping buildings become more energy efficient, benchmarks also provide a way to measure the effectiveness of upgrading building systems with cutting-edge technology like renewable energy sources. As such, energy benchmarking is a valuable tool in the push toward green energy solutions that can help us save on operating costs and benefit the environment.

    How Can Energy Benchmarking Data Improve A Building’s Energy Performance?

    Benchmarking a building’s energy performance is essential in driving consumers towards higher-performing buildings. With benchmarking data, businesses and organizations can better understand their building’s energy performance and set targets for improved energy use and efficiency.

    There are benchmarking and transparency policies that promote the usage of benchmarking data and platforms, such as Energy Star Portfolio Manager, which allows users to compare their benchmarked buildings with other similar buildings in terms of energy use, consumption, emissions, and performance.

    Benchmarking a building’s energy performance can equip owners to identify potential opportunities for reducing energy costs and help to reduce waste so that they can make meaningful improvements in their buildings’ energy performance.

    Why Is Energy Benchmarking Important For Building Owners?

    Importance of Energy Benchmarking

    Energy benchmarking is an invaluable tool for building owners looking to reduce energy consumption and, ultimately, energy costs. By providing energy data collected from metering and energy use analysis, energy benchmarking helps building owners gain insight into their energy consumption. This data provides a snapshot of energy consumption in comparison to the energy performance of other similar buildings, helping them evaluate energy performance and understand how costly changes to their facility could impact energy use over time.

    For this reason, benchmarking has become an important part of the environmental protection agency’s (EPA) efforts toward creating more sustainable energy practices across the nation. For any property owner looking to make their building more energy-efficient and cost-effective, energy benchmarking is an invaluable tool that should be taken advantage of today.

    How To Conduct Energy Benchmarking Assessment?

    Energy benchmarking is an important part of building performance standards, as it helps to track energy consumption data and use it to implement energy-saving initiatives. An energy benchmarking assessment should begin with a survey to understand the building’s physical characteristics, including its size and age. Next, analyze building energy bills and other documents related to building operations.

    After collecting relevant information and data, compare the building’s Energy Star score against similar scores from other buildings in the area and develop potential ways to improve its score. With continued effort and consistent monitoring of the building’s energy usage, progress can be tracked over time to continuously reduce energy costs and drive greater efficiency for a more sustainable building.

    Tips To Reduce Energy Consumption Of A Building

    Here are some tips to reduce the energy consumption of a building:

    1. Utilize Natural Lighting: Take advantage of natural light to reduce the need for electric lighting during the day. Installing larger windows, and skylights, and adding reflective surfaces can all help to bring more natural light into your building while reducing energy consumption.

    2. Install Motion Detectors: Automatically turning off lights when no one is in the room can greatly reduce energy consumption. Installing motion detectors or sensors on lights and other appliances can help you save money.

    3. Install Efficient Lighting: Replacing traditional bulbs with LED bulbs can result in significant energy savings. Also, using task lighting instead of main lighting to reduce your energy costs.

    4. Utilize Power Strips: Plugging all computers and other electronics into one power strip can help reduce energy consumption by cutting off their power when not in use. You can also set a timer on the power strip so that it will automatically shut off after a certain period of time.

    5. Insulate Your Building:Insulating your building can help to keep the warm air inside during the winter and cool air inside during the summer. This can reduce your energy costs as you won’t need to use heating or cooling systems as often.

    6. Upgrade To Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replacing old appliances with newer, more efficient models can help you cut energy costs. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified appliances to ensure you get the most efficient models available.

    7. Utilize Smart Thermostats: Installing programmable thermostats, and smart thermostats can help you better manage the temperature in your building without overworking your heating and cooling systems. This can help you save money while still maintaining a comfortable environment.

    Following these tips can reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills. Taking steps to become more energy efficient is an important part of being eco-friendly and responsible for the environment. Your efforts will also pay off in terms of savings as well!

    Benefits Of Energy Benchmarking

    Benefits of Energy Benchmarking

    Let’s have a look at the benefits of energy benchmarking:

    1. Cost Savings: Energy benchmarking provides a clear understanding of energy use and helps to identify cost savings opportunities. It allows organizations to track and measure their performance, compare it with similar buildings, set goals for improvement, and develop strategies for achieving those goals.

    2. Improved Performance: Benchmarking reveals inefficiencies and areas of improvement in the energy use of a building. It helps to illustrate how buildings operate and enables organizations to track progress over time. This information can be used to make informed energy consumption and performance decisions.

    3. Increased Awareness: Energy benchmarking encourages improved awareness of energy use among occupants and staff members, which often leads to increased consciousness and a better understanding of how energy can be used efficiently.

    4. Improved Energy Efficiency: By benchmarking the energy use of a building, organizations can develop strategies for improving its efficiency. This process helps identify areas where improvements can be made to reduce overall energy consumption and save money on utility bills.

    5. Increased Value: By making the necessary improvements to a building’s energy efficiency and performance, organizations can increase its value in the market by demonstrating to potential buyers that the building is well-managed and has a low environmental impact.

    Energy benchmarking is an important tool for helping organizations save money on energy costs and improve the overall performance of their buildings. It is a simple, cost-effective way to track and analyze energy use, identify opportunities for improvements, and set goals for future energy efficiency initiatives. Ultimately, benchmarking can lead to greater savings in energy costs and an improved bottom line for organizations.

    Best Energy Benchmarking Tools

    Regarding energy benchmarking, the best tools are those that provide detailed analytics, allow for customization and offer specific recommendations for efficiency improvement. Some of the top tools on the market today include Energy Star Portfolio Manager, and VertPro®.

    These programs provide various features to simplify energy benchmarking in commercial and buildings, such as user-friendly dashboards, automated data updates, and rebate options. With these powerful tools, anyone can improve energy efficiency with just a few clicks!

    Things To Consider When Investing In Energy Benchmarking

    Investing in energy benchmarking is a great way to improve the environment and cut your operating costs. Whether you are an individual investor or a company looking to reduce emissions, it’s important to consider a few components when determining the best strategy. First, identify what types of energy sources you need to analyze.

    Then assess the current and projected usage of that energy source by collecting data from previous bills or surveys of the customer base. Additionally, you should take into account how long it will take for any changes made through energy benchmarking to take effect; for example, if new equipment is being installed, this can significantly raise upfront costs but save money in the long run by heading off higher utility bills down the road.

    Finally, think about potential savings over time — are there any potential incentives you can use? If so, capitalize on them and maximize your return on investment while helping protect our planet.

    Conclusion

    Energy benchmarking is a valuable tool for improving building performance. By understanding how your buildings use energy, you can make informed decisions about where to invest in improvements. Benchmarking allows you to compare your building’s performance against similar properties and track progress over time. If you’re not already using energy benchmarking, now is the time to start!