(H06) Local Law 97- the Pathway to a Carbon-Neutral New York City

This session will examine the growth of building decarbonization policies in the United States, with detailed attention on Local Law 97 (LL97), which became law in New York City in 2019. The debate between three panelists- an industry standards expect, a representative of the City of New York, and an environmental advocacy representative will highlight how this type of policy has emerged and evolved in recent years. Details on New York City’s law will provide a platform to observe and discuss what foundational policies are necessary and what types of advocacy are necessary to advance such legal mechanisms to become successful legislation. Looking at the building blocks for building performance standards (BPS), these three experts will share details that are critical to decarbonization policies (selecting the right metrics), highlighting progress in the development of building performance standards guidance coming from current and recent ASHRAE initiatives, examining the influence of energy grid transitions on local decarbonization policies, and considering the extraordinary need for assistance for building owners and how to get owners started. In addition to the many benefits that should come from a building decarbonization policy, including increased environmental justice, jobs and public health benefits, the panel will discuss what the challenges and realities are for such a program. The session will touch on how LEED buildings can contribute to community-wide decarbonization and USGBC’s role in the evolution of such policies. In their examples, the panel will share advise for stakeholders and other government representatives who are interested in establishing building decarbonization policies, sharing lessons learned in New York City with ingredients for success.