Benchmarking: The New Black (Or, at Least, the New Legal Requirement)
So, you’ve got a building in NYC. Congrats! It’s a big city, and you’re a big shot (or at least you own a big building). But with great power comes great responsibility, and in this case, that responsibility is benchmarking.
What on Earth is Benchmarking?
Let's clear the air. Benchmarking isn't some new, fancy gym workout. It's actually a way to measure your building's energy and water use. Think of it like weighing yourself - you don’t want to do it every day, but it’s good to know where you stand. Except, instead of fitting into your jeans, you're aiming to reduce your building’s environmental impact.
Why Do I Have to Do This?
Because the city said so. NYC is all about being green, and that means buildings have to play their part. It's like recycling - nobody loves it, but we all know it’s the right thing to do. Plus, benchmarking can help you save money on energy costs. It’s a win-win, really.
How Do I Actually Submit This Thing?
Okay, now we’re getting to the juicy stuff. First, you need to gather your building's energy and water consumption data. This might sound like fun, but trust us, it’s about as exciting as watching paint dry. Once you've got your data, you input it into a magical tool called Portfolio Manager. It’s like Excel, but for people who care about the planet.
After you've filled in all the boxes (and double-checked your numbers because one decimal point can make a world of difference), you hit submit. And voila! You're a benchmarking champion. Or at least, you're compliant.
Tips and Tricks
- Don't Panic: If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. There are plenty of resources available to help you through the process.
- Be Accurate: Garbage in, garbage out. Make sure your data is correct.
- Set a Reminder: Benchmarking is an annual thing, so don't forget about it next year.
FAQs: How To...
- How to find my building's BBL (Building Identification Number)? Check the Department of Finance website or your property tax bill.
- How to access Portfolio Manager? Go to energystar.gov/portfolio manager and create an account.
- How to interpret my benchmarking score? A higher score means your building is more energy efficient. Aim for the stars!
- How to reduce my building's energy consumption? Consider energy-efficient upgrades like LED lighting and improved insulation.
- How to get help with benchmarking? Contact the NYC Sustainability Help Center at (212) 566-5584 or visit nyc.gov/sustainability.
So there you have it. Benchmarking isn't the most thrilling topic, but it’s important. Think of it as your small part in saving the planet while also potentially saving some cash. Happy benchmarking!