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BES November 2025 RoundUp
BES August 2025 RoundUp
July 30, 2025Phased Approaches to Electrification
For many NYC building owners, full electrification can seem financially out of reach. But taking a phased approach makes it achievable. Instead of replacing every system at once, owners are finding success by targeting high-impact upgrades first—such as converting domestic hot water to electric heat pumps or improving building envelopes to reduce overall load.
This incremental strategy spreads costs over several budget cycles while delivering measurable emissions reductions right away. Pairing smaller upgrades with incentive programs from local utilities like Con Edison and National Grid further improves project economics. Smart sequencing—starting with efficiency, then electrification—can also reduce the size and cost of future equipment.
By planning around natural equipment lifecycles and prioritizing systems nearing end-of-life, owners can move toward compliance with Local Law 97 without financial strain. The result: steady progress toward net-zero emissions, lower operating costs, and a more resilient, future-ready building portfolio.
Large Complex Lunch and Learn
BES is hosting a Lunch and Learn on November 20th for large complexes and 2-pipe multifamily buildings. The hybrid event can be attended in-person or online and will feature a deep dive on orifice plates, TRVs, and steam system balancing. Look out for your invitation soon.
Upcoming Events
November 12: New York Property Expo
November 18: Coop Expo Fall
November 19: The Clean Fight Showcase
November 20: PACT Lunch and Learn
December 2: Holiday Party
December 10: Webinar with NYCEDC
Building Skills NY Award
Congratulations to our very own Paul Harris on being awarded a Building "Futures Honoree" at the Best of Building Skills NY 2025 ceremony! Proud of our members upskilling their experience.
BES CASE STUDY
NYCHA Linden Houses
AMEEP Comprehensive Project on a multifamily complex in East Brooklyn comprising 19 buildings and 1,586 affordable units.
NYCHA Linden Houses was experiencing high energy usage and frequent tenant complaints. The property was seeking a full retrofit to maximize energy efficiency and available energy incentive rebates.
At this East New York NYCHA development with two-pipe steam systems, BES completed a comprehensive heating upgrade to improve efficiency and comfort. Orifice plates were installed to balance steam distribution, all steam traps were repaired or replaced, and exposed piping was fully insulated. Thermostatic radiator valves combined with orifice plates, and new radiator enclosures, were added for better control and appearance. The project captured incentives through the AMEEP Comprehensive Program, slashing overall project costs while delivering a more reliable, efficient heating system.
BES takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and resolving steam balancing issues across entire distribution systems.
We work with affordable housing properties to complete the 13 prescriptive energy conservation measures required for Local Law 97 compliance and help identify and secure available incentives to offset costs. With the extended filing deadline approaching, now is the time to explore how the BES Turnkey Solution can help your building cut energy use, lower operating expenses, and stay fully compliant with LL97.
SPOTLIGHT: PIPE INSULATION
Pipe insulation plays a critical role in the energy performance of New York City’s multifamily buildings. Uninsulated or poorly insulated steam and hot-water pipes lose significant heat before it reaches apartments, forcing boilers to work harder and waste fuel. This raises energy costs, increases maintenance, and adds to greenhouse gas emissions. Proper insulation reduces these losses, helping buildings operate more efficiently and residents stay more comfortable.
Under Local Law 97 (LL97), large buildings—those over 25,000 square feet—must meet strict annual greenhouse gas emission limits. Article 320 allows owners to comply through energy consumption while Article 321 allows compliance by completing a list of prescriptive energy conservation measures. Pipe insulation is one of these required measures. It’s a relatively low-cost, low-disruption upgrade that can make a measurable difference in both compliance and savings.
Insulation Thickness
According to the NYC Department of Buildings and the NYS Energy Code, all steam and hot-water pipes must meet specific insulation thickness standards based on pipe size and temperature. By insulating piping systems, owners can reduce energy waste, avoid LL97 penalties, and improve system balance and tenant comfort. For most multifamily buildings, adding or upgrading insulation is one of the easiest and fastest ways to help meet Local Law 97 goals.
Cold Water Pipes
Cold water pipes with a diameter of 3 inches or more are required to be insulated under the NYC Energy Conservation Code to prevent condensation and moisture damage. When uninsulated, these pipes can sweat in humid conditions, leading to corrosion, mold growth, and deterioration of surrounding materials such as ceilings or insulation. By adding a vapor barrier through proper insulation, building owners protect both the plumbing and nearby structures from long-term moisture problems, improving durability and reducing maintenance issues.
