Project Overview

Built in 1923, Roosevelt Gardens in the South Bronx consists of 14 affordable housing buildings that share a common roof and are serviced by the same central electrical and mechanical systems. The properties faced pest infestation and impending penalties related to New York City’s Local Law 97 (LL97), which caps carbon emissions for buildings over 25,000 gross square feet.

Property manager Kraus Management enlisted help from Atlas Builders to improve operating performance and lower costs while reducing carbon emissions and enhancing conditions for residents. With support from NYC Accelerator, the properties made upgrades to achieve LL97 compliance through 2030.

$8.2 million
Net project cost (after incentives)

$9.45 million
Total project cost (before incentives)

$1.25 million
Incentives received

$155,000/year
Estimated energy cost savings

$1.76 million
Estimated LL97 penalties avoided for 2050

2 years
Project duration

23.9 years
Payback period*

*This current estimate includes only one building subject to LL97, categorized under Section 321. The building owner plans to meet the Prescriptive Energy Conservation Measures, which eliminates all LL97 penalties. This estimate does not include operating expense savings, which, in addition to energy savings, further reduce the payback period.

The

Opportunity

Following a comprehensive energy audit, Atlas Builders confirmed that replacing the complex’s aging two-pipe steam heating system with a two-pipe hydronic heating system with integrated domestic hot water tanks would reduce energy use, operating costs, and carbon emissions while enhancing resident comfort. Additionally, eliminating underground steam heat pipes would address pest issues, and upgrading the roof with solar panels and insulation would optimize the performance of the heating system.

Ineffective Insulation

Inadequate insulation contributed to inconsistent building temperatures and affected.

Penalties Under Local Law 97

Pre-war buildings were facing penalties for exceeding carbon emissions limits set by LL97.

The

Solution

Kraus Management and Atlas Builders contacted NYC Accelerator and received:

Access to a Reputable Service Provider

The building connected with trusted partners for help with building design, technology, and incentives.

Customized Incentive Support

With help from NYC Accelerator, the building received assistance with local, state, and federal incentives, including New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) funding for a Federal Trade Commission energy study.

Free help with project planning and development

A new two-pipe hydronic heating system more efficiently transports hot water throughout the building.

The Benefits

NYSERDA incentives to offset the costs of an energy study
NY-Sun incentives to install solar panels
Reduced operation and maintenance costs
Improved air quality and comfort for residents
Lower utility costs
Enhanced property value
LL97 compliance through 2030

NYC Accelerator has been a great partner in helping us understand the incentive process and pushing our applications through. Their knowledge of grant programs has helped us understand what our buildings can qualify for and how we can help our buildings comply with LL97.

— Zarifet Maqelara

Project Manager, Atlas Builders

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Bronx Apartments Increase Energy Efficiency and Reduce Costs