How the Benchmarking Law is Reshaping NYC's Energy Landscape

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:18:17 +0000

If you manage property in NYC, this one regulation could change your entire strategy. The Benchmarking Law—formally known as Local Law 84—requires commercial buildings over 25,000 square feet to report annual energy and water usage. But what started as a reporting mandate has become a major driver of operational change under the city’s broader Climate Mobilization Act. A midtown office building recently saw its benchmarking score drop below a passing ENERGY STAR rating, prompting ownership to fast-track HVAC upgrades to stay compliant with Local Law 97’s carbon caps. In today’s NYC market, poor energy scores don’t just mean higher bills—they can influence tenant renewals, insurance premiums, and financing terms. With stricter energy efficiency regulations on the horizon, energy benchmarking is now the frontline of carbon footprint reduction.