Ithaca Green New Deal and Energy Code Compliance: A Business Guide to Sustainable Success

Understanding Ithaca’s Energy Code Supplement

Ithaca is advancing its sustainability efforts with the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement (IECS) and Green New Deal, which establishes strict energy efficiency and electrification requirements for buildings. The policy aims to eliminate fossil fuel use in new and existing buildings while improving energy performance.

This ordinance is part of the city’s broader effort to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, making compliance essential for property owners looking to reduce emissions, optimize energy efficiency, and maintain long-term asset value.

Who Must Comply with Ithaca’s Energy Code Supplement?

The IECS applies to:

• New construction of all building types.
• Major renovations that meet the city’s compliance threshold.
• Additions of 500 square feet or more for single-family and two-family homes.
• Additions of 1,000 square feet or more for commercial and multifamily buildings.

Projects that do not include directly heated spaces may be exempt from certain requirements.

Key Compliance Requirements for Ithaca’s IECS

1. Energy Efficiency Performance Standards

The IECS requires buildings to meet energy efficiency benchmarks that exceed New York State’s energy code. These standards focus on:

• High-performance insulation and air sealing.
• Advanced HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
• Efficient lighting and building automation.

2. Electrification of Building Systems

A central requirement of the IECS is the elimination of fossil fuels in buildings. This includes:

• Replacing gas-fired heating and cooling systems with heat pumps.
• Installing electric water heaters.
• Using induction cooking appliances instead of gas stoves.

3. Renewable Energy Requirements

Buildings must procure 100% renewable electricity through:

• On-site solar or wind power installations.
• Participation in community solar or utility renewable energy programs.
• Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) to offset non-renewable electricity use.

4. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions

Property owners must track and report their emissions reductions, ensuring their building aligns with Ithaca’s carbon neutrality targets.

5. Energy Benchmarking & Reporting

Building owners must annually track energy usage using ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and submit reports to the city to demonstrate progress toward meeting performance standards.

Compliance Deadlines & Reporting Schedule

The city has phased deadlines for compliance, with interim targets leading up to full electrification and carbon neutrality by 2030.

• 2023: Energy efficiency standards and electrification requirements took effect.
• 2026: New buildings must be fully electrified with no reliance on fossil fuels.
• 2030: All buildings must meet carbon neutrality goals.

Steps to Achieve Compliance

1. Conduct An Energy Audit

Assessing current energy performance is essential for identifying inefficiencies and necessary upgrades.

2. Upgrade Building Systems For Energy Efficiency

To meet performance targets, property owners should:

• Enhance insulation and air sealing.
• Upgrade HVAC systems to heat pumps.
• Optimize building automation and lighting.

3. Transition to Electric Systems

Replacing fossil fuel-based systems with high-efficiency electric alternatives is required. This includes:

• Heat pumps for space heating and cooling.
• Electric water heating systems.
• Energy-efficient electric kitchen appliances.

4. Install Renewable Energy Solutions

To comply with Ithaca’s 100% renewable energy requirement, property owners can:

• Install solar panels or battery storage.
• Enroll in utility renewable energy programs.
• Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) to offset emissions.

5. Submit Annual Benchmarking Reports

Use ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to track energy use and submit compliance reports annually to Ithaca’s energy department.

Financial Incentives & Compliance Support

Ithaca offers various programs to assist property owners in meeting IECS compliance, including:

• Utility rebates for energy efficiency projects.
• PACE financing for renewable energy and electrification projects.
• Federal and state tax credits for solar and battery storage installations.

These incentives help reduce upfront costs while maximizing long-term savings.

Why Compliance Matters For Building Owners

Meeting the requirements of Ithaca’s Energy Code Supplement provides multiple benefits:

• Lower Energy Costs: Efficient buildings consume less energy, reducing operational expenses.
• Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient buildings attract tenants and buyers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Avoid fines and enforcement actions by meeting deadlines.
• Sustainability Leadership: Supporting Ithaca’s carbon neutrality goals enhances corporate responsibility.

Next Steps For Building Owners

If your building falls under Ithaca’s IECS, take these immediate steps to ensure compliance:

1. Confirm if your building meets compliance requirements.
2. Benchmark your energy use using ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
3. Schedule an energy audit to identify efficiency improvements.
4. Develop a long-term electrification and renewable energy strategy.
5. Submit required benchmarking reports and track progress.
6. Explore financial incentives to offset upgrade costs.

By acting now, property owners can stay ahead of compliance deadlines, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable Ithaca.