New Energy Codes Have Teeth. Here's How To Stay Ahead Of Them

If you're a developer in New York City, it's understandable if you've felt a bit frustrated by the recent changes to the energy code. 

On Oct. 3, the mandatory regulations shifted once more, despite having been altered less than two years ago, in January 2015. The most current change prior to that was late 2010.

"People were just getting used to the new rules and—bang!—they changed on them again," Vidaris principal Ian Graham tells Bisnow.

The result of the recent shifts? Ian tells us developers across New York had projects in their offices that were designed using three different sets of codes. 

Prior to 2014, projects applying for permits were not reviewed by an official before breaking ground. Even then, the now-outdated, "after-code approval" energy code audit was rare. 

The new rules have teeth, and serious consequences await those who shirk them. 

"Projects can get stopped during construction if they're not doing what they're supposed to do," Ian says. "The NYC DOB is issuing stop-work orders and issuing fines."

Hoping you won't get caught? Don't bet on it. Field audits of projects have been increased to make sure the approved plans are truly executed.

But there's hope if the complex and changing energy regulations are causing you to doubt your next project's plan. Vidaris has been performing energy code analysis via its Energy Efficiency Division for a long time. Although the consultation service is not new, Ian admits the need for guidance is greater now than it used to be.

"The days of limited enforcement are in the past," Ian says. "Now developers are facing delays and penalties."

Ian says his clients were able to adapt to delays and the recent changes. They are also able to set up their projects to conform to the most current guidelines.

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