The Enterprise Green Communities certification criteria just updated from the 2015 requirements. Now, the Enterprise Green Communities (EGC) 2020 criteria includes:
- New certification point thresholds;
- Energy Star certification for new construction developments (Energy Star Multifamily New Construction or Energy Star Certified Homes based on this EPA decision tree);
- Additional testing and verification for building rehabilitations; and
- A new partnership with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).
In New York City, all HPD-funded projects* require a solar feasibility analysis to ensure the development can easily comply with Local Laws 92 and 94 (solar and green roof requirement). You can read more about the NYC overlay of EGC 2020 for HPD projects.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we have received about the new EGC 2020 criteria.
What are the new NYC/HPD point thresholds?
Substantial and Moderate Rehab projects are required to earn at least 55 optional points, while New Construction projects are required to earn at least 60 points. This may add technical consulting time to your projects, so plan accordingly.
What triggers ENERGY STAR certification?
New construction, which can include significant gut rehabilitations if the building is able to meet all the program requirements. If a substantial rehab considers itself a full gut rehab and can meet the ENERGY STAR program requirements, it may elect to do so voluntarily.
Read the full article on NYREJ’s website.
