For companies that want to improve their energy efficiency and other building-performance features, the web site we will launch this summer with CUNY’s Building Performance Lab will offer extensive information. Right now, the sources listed below can help you pursue such a project.

You’ll find the business case for investing in better building performance; practical tools for assessing and improving performance, including guidance for seeking services; and much more on these web sites:

• Better Bricks
  The High Performance Portfolio Framework and Briefings & Templates are excellent sources to start with. Don't stop there.
  
• California Commissioning Collaborative
  Start with its Retrocommissioning Toolkit, which includes a checklist for preparing an RFP for retrocommissioning services.
  
• ConEd
  See its energy management and “power of green” programs.
  
• NYS Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA)
  NYSERDA’s Commercial and Industrial Programs offer technical assistance and financial incentives for achieving greater energy efficiency.
  
• Portland Energy Conservation, Inc. (PECI)
  Its extensive Resource Library includes a comprehensive Retrocommissioning Guide for Building Owners that “covers the business case for retrocommissioning and describes the process step-by-step, including key strategies for success, helpful resources, and . . . templates and samples.”
  
• US Environmental Protection Agency
  Energy Star Portfolio Manager is a secure interactive tool for tracking and assessing energy and water consumption across an entire portfolio of buildings. Intended for use by property owners, managers, and investors, it helps users set investment priorities, identify under-performing buildings, verify efficiency improvements, and receive EPA recognition for them.
  See, too, extensive information on Buildings and Tools & Resources.
  
• US Green Building Council
  The Council is the source of LEED certifications, including LEED-EB for existing buildings. Its comprehensive webinars offer an efficient way to learn.
  

To learn about New York City’s ambitious sustainability goals, which include achieving greater energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions related to the city’s building stock, see the energy chapter of its plaNYC 2030 and the 2008 update.

To learn about opportunities to participate in local events related to building performance, visit these web sites:

• CUNY’s Building Performance Lab hosts free webinar viewings on topics related to building performance at the Newman Institute. To receive email announcements, contact
Nora Sherman
phone: 646.660.6978
nora_sherman@baruch.cuny.edu



• The New York Academy of Sciences Green Buildings Discussion Group hosts talks and panel discussions by leading practitioners.
  
• The Sallan Foundation offers much valuable content related to green buildings and a calendar of local events.