We will strengthen energy and building codes to support our energy efficiency strategies and other environmental goals
New York City is completing its first major revision to the building code in nearly 40 years, with adoption expected in summer 2007. This will be followed by regular reviews and updates of the code, to be conducted on a three-year cycle.

While the new code will include a number of green elements-including rebates for some green building features, requirements for cool (white) roofs and energy code certification, and more stringent ventilation standards-more can be done.

We will make "greening the code" a central focus of the next revision cycle, with an emphasis on implementing the city's energy efficiency strategies, streamlining the process for incorporating new, sustainable technologies into construction, and adaptation to climate change.

Another area of focus will be reducing the amount of cement used in concrete. Creating cement is an energy-intensive process that releases a ton of C02 for every ton of cement produced. We will advocate for a different form of concrete production that uses 30% to 40% less cement while retaining strength.

The next three years are also an opportunity to amend other codes influencing the city's energy efficiency, such as the State Energy Conservation Construction Code and New York City's Fire Code. While the State code is required to be amended every three years, the process is often delayed and its provisions are not adequately enforced. We will strengthen enforcement of these codes and push for higher standards, particularly regarding lighting requirements. We will also seek to integrate sustainability considerations more fully into the City's other codes, striking an appropriate balance between reducing implementation barriers while preserving safety standards.

Progress (as of 4/22/08):
On July 3, Mayor Bloomberg signed into law the first overhaul of the city's building codes since 1968. The new codes facilitate sustainable building by providing fee rebates for green design, requiring documentation demonstrating compliance with the NYS Energy code, requiring white roofs, and encouraging plumbing systems that conserve water. Over the past year, the City has participated in working groups to revise the New York State energy code. As part of this process, in April, the New York State Department of State (NYS DOS) adopted a new standard that increases required lighting efficiencies by as much as 30% for many space types. The City continues to work with various stakeholders to develop the additional green requirements outlined in PlaNYC, including benchmarking the efficiency of large buildings across the city; lighting upgrades in commercial space when renovated; and periodic energy audits; the undertaking of cost-effective energy-efficiency projects by private buildings.