 LL84 & LL97 Made Simple: Your 2025 Guide to Energy Benchmarking and Carbon Emissions Limits
New York City is serious about slashing greenhouse gas emissions — and if you own or manage a large building, Local Law 84 (LL84) and Local Law 97 (LL97) are front and center in that effort. These two laws work together to track, report, and reduce the energy use and carbon emissions of the city’s biggest properties.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what LL84 and LL97 require in 2025, why they matter, and how to stay compliant without losing sleep over deadlines.
What is Local Law 84?
LL84, part of NYC’s Greener, Greater Buildings Plan, requires most buildings 25,000 sq. ft. and up to report annual energy and water usage through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
2025 Key Facts:
- Report for 2024 usage by: May 1, 2025
- Grace period: Until June 30, 2025 (no fines)
- Extension (if linked to LL97 filing): Until December 31, 2025
- Certification: Must be reviewed and signed by a Registered Design Professional (RDP)
- Penalties: $500 per quarter, up to $2,000/year per building
Why LL84 Matters
- Creates the baseline data LL97 uses to set carbon limits
- Makes building performance transparent to buyers, tenants, and investors
- Pinpoints waste so you can plan upgrades that cut costs
- Is a prerequisite for LL97 compliance
What is LL97?
Passed in 2019, LL97 sets carbon caps for large buildings starting in 2024. Miss the limit, and you’ll pay $268 per metric ton over.
2025 Key Facts:
- First emissions report due May 1, 2025
- Applies to most buildings over 25,000 sq. ft.
- Carbon limits vary by occupancy type and get stricter over time
- Reports must be signed by an RDP and filed in the BEAM Portal
How LL84 and LL97 Work Together
Think of LL84 as the measuring stick and LL97 as the target. LL84 shows where your building stands; LL97 tells you how far you have to go. Aligning both reports saves time and reduces mistakes.
Challenges to Expect
- Gathering accurate data from older systems
- Integrating utility data into Portfolio Manager
- Scheduling RDP reviews in time
- Staying on top of multiple deadlines
Benefits of Compliance
- Avoid fines
- Lower utility bills
- Boost property value
- Support NYC’s climate goals
Best Practices
- Upgrade to smart meters
- Work with a compliance consultant
- Use ENERGY STAR tools year-round
- Plan efficiency projects around LL97’s stricter future limits
Conclusion
Complying with LL84 and LL97 isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about positioning your building for a low-carbon future. Start with accurate benchmarking, then use that insight to meet (and beat) your emissions targets.
Need expert help? The Cotocon Group can guide you through every step, from data collection to filing, so you can focus on running your building efficiently.
