Polytechnic Institute of New York University
Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Fall 2012
Report prepared by:
Adam Rohloff, Sara Greenwood, Jon Roberts
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
8105 Irvine Center Drive, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
BACKGROUND ON NYU-POLY ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING CLIMATE CHANGE ....................................................................................................................... 3
SUSTAINABILITY AT NYU-POLY ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
2.
NYU-POLY’S COMMITMENT TO CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION ................................................................................... 6
AMERICAN COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY PRESIDENTS’ CLIMATE COMMITMENT (ACUPCC) ........................................................................... 6
2.1.1. NYU-Poly’s plans to make sustainability a part of the curriculum ........................................................................ 7
2.1.2. NYU-Poly’s plans to expand research efforts toward the achievement of climate neutrality .............................. 8
2.1.3. NYU-Poly’s plans to expand community outreach efforts toward achievement of climate neutrality ................. 9
THE NEW YORK CITY MAYORAL UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE - COMMITMENT TO 30% EMISSIONS REDUCTION BY 2018 ................................... 9
CONTEXTUAL DATA – ENDOWMENT SIZE AND OPERATING BUDGET .................................................................................................... 9
3.
NYU-POLY GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS INVENTORY SUMMARY ............................................................................. 10
GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY RESULTS......................................................................................................................................... 10
EMISSIONS INVENTORY METHODOLOGY AND BOUNDARIES .............................................................................................................. 15
3.1.1. Reporting Time Period ........................................................................................................................................ 15
3.1.2. Organizational Boundary .................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.3. Inventory Process ................................................................................................................................................ 15
3.1.4. Normalization and Contextual Data ................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.5. Building Space .................................................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.6. Student Population ............................................................................................................................................. 17
AUDITING AND VERIFICATION..................................................................................................................................................... 17
4.
EMISSIONS REDUCTION PLAN ..................................................................................................................................... 18
NYU-POLY CAMPUS EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGY .................................................................................................................. 18
NYU-POLY GHG EMISSIONS FORECASTING.................................................................................................................................. 19
PHASE 1 EMISSION REDUCTION MEASURES .................................................................................................................................. 21
4.1.1. Rogers Complex Phase 1 Measures .................................................................................................................... 22
4.1.2. Dibner Library and Othmer Hall Measures ......................................................................................................... 24
4.1.3. Metrotech Center Build-Out Measures ............................................................................................................... 25
4.1.4. Combined Phase 1 Summary .............................................................................................................................. 27
PHASE 2 EMISSION REDUCTION MEASURES .................................................................................................................................. 30
4.1.5. Rogers Complex Phase 2 Measures .................................................................................................................... 30
4.1.6. Dibner Library Measures..................................................................................................................................... 32
4.1.7. Othmer Hall Measures ........................................................................................................................................ 32
4.1.8. Wunsch Hall Measures ....................................................................................................................................... 33
4.1.9. Campus-Wide Buildings - Emission Reduction Measures ................................................................................... 33
4.1.10. Combined Phase 2 Summary .............................................................................................................................. 35
PHASE 3 EMISSION REDUCTION MEASURES .................................................................................................................................. 38
4.1.11. Rogers Complex Measures.................................................................................................................................. 38
4.1.12. Othmer Hall Measures ........................................................................................................................................ 39
4.1.13. Science & Engineering Building - New Construction ........................................................................................... 40
4.1.14. Campus-Wide ..................................................................................................................................................... 45
4.1.15. Combined Phase 3 summary .............................................................................................................................. 46
NON-BUILDING RELATED (SCOPE 3) GHG EMISSION REDUCTION MEASURES ..................................................................................... 48
4.1.16. Bicycle Network, Storage and Shower Facilities ................................................................................................. 48
4.1.17. Carbon Offsets .................................................................................................................................................... 49
PLANS TO TRACK AND REPORT EMISSIONS .................................................................................................................................... 51
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A comprehensive climate action plan has been conducted for NYU-Poly in accordance with the American
College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) and the PlaNYC Mayoral University
Challenge. This document first summarizes the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and related data; and
secondly, provides the details of the proposed “climate action plan” required to meet the ACUPCC and
University Challenge goals.
The ACUPCC1 and PlaNYC Mayoral University Challenge2 require GHG inventory reporting of various metrics
across several years, using multiple reporting and analysis tools. NYU-Poly signed on to the ACUPCC program,
which aims to address global climate challenges, and which consists of a network of higher education
institutions that have committed to eliminating net greenhouse gas emission from campus operations.
ACUPCC strives to promote research and educational efforts with regard to climate change. This program
provides a framework that colleges and universities may use to develop comprehensive plans in pursuit of
climate neutrality. NYU-Poly has used the 2008–2009 fiscal year baseline to report its GHG emissions using
the Clean Air-Cool Planet Campus Carbon Calculator (V6.4). This has been posted to the ACUPCC online
reporting system.
The 2006–2007 fiscal year GHG inventory was prepared for the PlaNYC University Challenge. The GHG
emissions reported here are based on the PlaNYC Greenhouse Gas Emissions calculator, and only report GHG
emissions from building energy use and operations. The University Challenge launched in 2007 and aims to
reduce GHG emissions by 30% in a 10-year timeline.
This Climate Action Plan bases its emission reduction measures off of the 2008-2009 inventory to be
consistent with the ACUPCC and includes a more comprehensive reporting of scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions
totaling 14,169 CO2e.
NYU-Poly faces some unique challenges and opportunities with regard to climate change and achieving
climate neutrality. The student enrollment is expected to increase, and Poly is actively recruiting new faculty.
The quality and vintage of the buildings on campus drives the implementation of much needed capital
improvement projects. Some of these renovations have made it necessary to temporarily lease space in order
to continue normal operations. As a leading science and technology institution, Poly has plans to expand and
upgrade its laboratories, which has the potential to increase energy consumption. While these factors amount
collectively to a potential obstacle to achieving climate neutrality, they also present a valuable opportunity to
make design decisions that will optimize Poly’s energy performance. In an effort to better understand the
institution’s sources of GHG emissions, Poly is committed to implementing strategic measures that will not
only eliminate emissions, but also model best practices that will benefit the community at large.
1
http://www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org/
2
http://www.nyc.gov/html/gbee/html/home/home.shtml
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1. INTRODUCTION
Background on NYU-Poly
NYU-Poly is ranked fourth in the nation among engineering colleges. At present, NYU-Poly’s undergraduate
enrollment is 1,768, representing 26 states plus the District of Columbia and 34 countries. In the spring of
2009, iNYU‐Poly embarked upon its i2e Campus Transformation, facilitated by a $50 million loan from New
York University. Approximately $12 million has been earmarked for new faculty hires; the remainder was
allocated to faculty labs; infrastructure upgrades, including information technology, classrooms, and asset
improvements. This campus transformation demonstrates the administration’s belief that physical facilities
play a critical role in helping NYU‐Poly reach its academic objectives by attracting top‐level faculty, high‐
achieving students and ultimately establishing the institution as a world‐class center of applied science,
technology and engineering.
The campus facilities transformation, initiated in May 2009, developed a Capital Improvement Plan for the
campus and involved community collaboration through several town hall meetings. Six driving principles
guided the establishment of a successful Capital Improvement Plan: i2e, Green, Engagement Process,
Transparent Process, Strategic Planning, and Exemplary Design. A strong governance system established
early in the process welcomed input from the entire NYU‐Poly community and promoted transparency and
collaboration. Several committees composed of faculty, students, and administration were engaged in the
process and included: Steering, Space Planning, Special Projects, Laboratory, and Academic Spaces.
A multi‐disciplinary team of expert engineering and architecture firms conducted a comprehensive
assessment of the NYU‐Poly facilities. Concluded in June 2010, the assessment highlighted several
challenges and opportunities, and revealed that existing campus facilities will require a significant
investment—more than $250 million—to make the needed capital improvements to bring buildings in
compliance with current building standards. The Capital Improvement Plan was charged with addressing
these needs over a 10-year period.
Importance of Understanding Climate Change
Climate change is a significant and lasting alteration in the statistical distribution of weather patterns over
periods ranging from decades to millions of years. Climate change can be thought of as a change in average
weather conditions or the distribution of events around that average (e.g., more or fewer extreme weather
events). Effects may be limited to a specific region or occur across the entire planet. According to the Pew
Center on Global Climate Change, “This warming, along with the associated changes in precipitation, drought,
heat waves, and sea-level rise, will cause severe damage to society and ecosystems.”3
Global warming is the observed increase in average temperature of the Earth’s surface and atmosphere. One
identified cause of global warming is an increase of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. GHGs are
those compounds in the Earth’s atmosphere that play a critical role in determining its surface temperature.
Specifically, GHGs allow high-frequency solar radiation to enter the Earth’s atmosphere, but trap the lowfrequency, long-wave energy which is radiated back from the Earth to space, resulting in a warming of the
atmosphere. The earthward movement of this long-wave radiation is known as the “greenhouse effect.”
Studies indicate that the effects of global climate change include rising surface temperatures, loss of snow
pack, sea level rise, more extreme heat days per year, and more drought years. Understanding of the
fundamental processes responsible for global climate change has improved over the past decade, and
3
http://www.pewclimate.org/science-impacts/about
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predictive capabilities are advancing. However, scientific uncertainties remain surrounding the response of
the Earth’s climate system to combinations of changes, particularly at regional and local scales.
Consequently, the scientific community has developed scenarios reflecting current understanding about the
plausible range of variation in social and economic responses and considered them with multiple
independent computer simulation models. The result is a range of potential future conditions, given
differences in social and economic conditions, and the response of the Earth’s climate system to
anthropogenic perturbations, such as continued emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases.
The six most globally important GHGs are carbon dioxide (CO 2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), sulfur
hexafluoride (SF6), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and perfluorocarbons (PFCs). Carbon dioxide is the most
abundant GHG, and it is conventionally used as a benchmark of the relative heat trapping potential of
atmospheric pollutants. These gases have different potentials for trapping heat in the atmosphere; each gas
has its own global warming potential (GWP). For example, one pound of methane has 21 times more heat
capturing potential than one pound of carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide has 310 times more heat capturing
potential than one pound of carbon dioxide, and sulfur hexafluoride has 3,200 times more heat capturing
potential than one pound of carbon dioxide. When dealing with an array of emissions, the gases are converted
to their carbon dioxide equivalents for comparison purposes and expressed in units of metric tons of carbon
dioxide equivalent (CO2e) units, or MtCO2e. A metric ton is approximately 2,205 lbs.
When it comes to climate change, environmental justice presents a fundamental moral and political challenge
that adversely impacts every corner of the globe. For example, in New York City, temperatures are projected to
increase by up to 8⁰F in winter and 7⁰F in summer. This radical alteration will damage local agricultural and
economies, leading to increased concentrations of ozone pollution at ground-level; harmful health conditions
such as respiratory illness; and sea-level rise, which may lead to flooding. Some scientists warn that parts of
Manhattan and surrounding boroughs may be under water by the end of the century.4 Energy use in buildings
accounts for 75% of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions, and it is anticipated that 80% of these
buildings will still exist 40 years from today.
At NYU-Poly, taking responsibility for one’s greenhouse gas emissions footprint is a priority. While the
campus as a whole is faced with unique building performance challenges, NYU-Poly is committed to
enhancing the overall building performance in an environmentally sustainable way. The institution is making
strategic decisions to mindfully renovate, improve and build campus facilities. The cornerstone of the
institution’s climate action plan is its recognition that energy efficiency improvement is a critical path toward
building improvements and meeting Poly’s climate commitments is. Beyond the physical structures, NYUPoly is an institution for students looking to advance in science and technology. The curriculum caters to
students interested in sustainability and is developed out of intense research efforts. NYU-Poly has
historically hosted community events aimed at elevating awareness and prominence of environmental
stewardship, and will continue building community support to further its goal of climate neutrality. As an
institution built on leadership, Poly strives to model best practices that will benefit the community at large.
Sustainability at NYU-Poly
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, NYU-Poly is strategically positioned to embrace a host of opportunities and
challenges when it comes to long-term campus sustainability. The dense campus community has the
advantage of being easily accessible by a host of public transportation options, thereby reducing the need to
rely on personal vehicles. The campus is undergoing a robust facility transformation, described above and
known as i2e, is clearly communicated on the University’s website: http://www.poly.edu/campustransformation. This campus transformation demonstrates the administration’s belief that physical facilities
play a critical role in helping NYU‐Poly reach its academic objectives by attracting top‐level faculty, high‐
4
http://www.climatechoices.org/assets/documents/climatechoices/confronting-climate-change-in-the-u-s-northeast.pdf
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achieving students and ultimately establishing the institution as a world‐class center of applied science,
technology and engineering. NYU-Poly’s campus is undergoing significant changes, including minor
renovations, more major redevelopment of the administration building and other buildings, and the campus
expansion in a neighboring high-rise building. These changes are being implemented with sustainability
design and construction practices in mind, thereby enabling NYU-Poly physical buildings to also serve as a
learning resource for students.
In 2004, NYU-Poly established the Brooklyn Enterprise on Science and Technology (BEST), its first business
incubator aimed at providing resources to start-up and spin-off companies, at its downtown Brooklyn
campus.5 In 2009, NYU-Poly established a second incubator, Varick Street, in Manhattan as part of Mayor
Bloomberg’s Five Borough Economic Opportunity Plan. These incubators are an integral component of NYUPoly’s i2e philosophy (invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship).
NYU-Poly is proud to be involved with the New York City Accelerator for a Clean and Renewable Economy
(NYC ACRE), an incubator focused on supporting clean technology oriented companies to model
environmental sustainability and smart growth. Poly is the recipient of a four-year grant offered by the New
York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) and aimed at fostering an ecosystem of
entrepreneurs, international companies, and innovative local businesses that are providing solutions to
climate and energy issues while supporting the clean tech/renewable energy sector and creating jobs in New
York City. NYC ACRE provides resources for companies who need strategic guidance and business
assistance with a focus on alternative energy and clean technology, or a product or service offering that has
a clear linkage to a more sustainable urban environment. The goal of each of Poly’s incubators is to provide
the guidance, expertise, and resources that organizations need to grow into successful ventures that bring
economic growth to New York City.
NYU-Poly has an active Office of Residence Life, which began an initiative with the Facilities Department to
pilot R.E.D.O. (Reduction, Education, Do Research and Outreach). Daniel Aniello, Director of Residence Life
and member of Poly’s Sustainable Practices Committee, created R.E.D.O. as a way “to develop Residence Life
into a green community and to use its success as an example of sustainability for the rest of the campus.”
The efforts of R.E.D.O. have created programming to motivate and educate students about the benefits of
being more environmentally conscious. For example, R.E.D.O. replaced hallway flyers with small dry-erase
boards and also combined recycled materials and large dry-erase boards to create a centralized, paperless
bulletin board to promote events and share environmental Facts of the Day. Paper consumption by
administrators has also been reduced significantly. By moving forms online, paper waste generated by weekly
maintenance requests has been reduced by 80%; waste generated by health and safety forms has dropped
88%; and waste associated with rounds reports has been 100% eliminated. New policies in the Office of
Residence Life require staff to turn the lights off when they leave the office, shutdown or hibernate computers
when the office is closed, use natural light whenever possible to illuminate the office, and unplug electronic
devices when they’re not in use.
NYU-Poly also offers a host of courses and degrees in the field of environmental sustainability such as: Clean
Energy Leadership, Urban Systems Engineering & Management, Psychology of Sustainability, Sustainable
Cities, and Sustainable Urban Environments.
The Sustainability Task Force established by NYU-Poly includes the Vice President of Finance & Business
Affairs, other administrators, committed professors, and students. Several committees composed of faculty,
staff members, students, and administration have been engaged in the process and included: Steering,
Space Planning, Special Projects, Laboratory, and Academic Spaces.
5
http://www.poly.edu/business/incubators
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
2. NYU-POLY’S COMMITMENT TO CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION
In 2009, NYU-Poly engaged in a formal process to better understand the physical performance of the campus
buildings and the GHG footprint of campus-wide operations. Committees contributing to this effort were
comprised of faculty, staff, students, and administration. A multi‐disciplinary team of expert engineering and
architecture firms conducted a comprehensive assessment of the NYU‐Poly facilities, which was concluded in
June 2010. The assessment highlighted several of challenges and opportunities. Extensive improvements to
certain campus buildings were identified as necessary—including wholesale mechanical system
replacements, critical electrical improvements, window replacements, fire safety system upgrades, roof
replacement, and more—in order to meet minimum building standards.
NYU-Poly wanted to undergo the campus transformation in a sustainable manner, consistent with green
building principles that would reap long-term benefits. The University made two commitments in order to
formally set sustainability as a goal. These commitments are outlined below:
American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC)
NYU-Poly has engaged in the American Colleges & University’s President’s Climate Commitment (ACUPCC),
which involves making an institutional commitment to eliminate net greenhouse gas emissions by the year
2030. The program encourages signatories to go beyond the strategic measures of physical improvements
and offsets by incorporating sustainability in the classroom and broader community. NYU-Poly has embraced
this commitment primarily through the sustainable i2e campus transformation, coupled with incorporating
sustainability into the academic curriculum that will instill best practices in its students, yielding benefits that
will be realized for years to come.
The ACUPCC commitment entails the following actions:
1. Initiate the development of a comprehensive plan to achieve climate neutrality as soon as possible.
a. Within two months of signing this document, create institutional structures to guide the development
and implementation of the plan.
b. Within one year of signing this document, complete a comprehensive inventory of all greenhouse gas
emissions (including emissions from electricity, heating, commuting, and air travel) and update the
inventory every other year thereafter.
c. Within two years of signing this document, develop an institutional action plan for becoming climate
neutral.
2. Initiate two or more interim actions to reduce greenhouse gases while the more comprehensive plan is
being developed. NYU-Poly has already initiated the following three interim actions:
a. Establish a policy that all new campus construction, where feasible, will be built to at least the U.S.
Green Building Council's LEED Silver standard or equivalent. The new construction of the Science &
Engineering Building will be built to at least LEED Silver standards.
b. Adopt an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy requiring purchase of ENERGY STAR certified
products in all areas for which such ratings exist. All emissions reduction measures in this Climate
Action Plan include the purchasing of ENERGY STAR qualified equipment where applicable.
c. Encourage the use of and provide access to public transportation for all faculty, staff, students, and
visitors at NYU-Poly. The vast majority of faculty and staff currently commute to campus via public
transportation.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
In addition, NYU-Poly has completed extensive ASHRAE Level II Energy Audits for all campus buildings.6
These energy audits were able to identify and quantify specific energy improvements in each of the
campus buildings, which, when implemented, will result in significant energy and savings and GHG
reductions.
3. Make the action plan, inventory, and periodic progress reports publicly available.
In an effort to best understand the campus-wide emissions sources, NYU-Poly conducted a comprehensive
greenhouse gas emissions inventory for all operations. This inventory lays the foundation for the Climate
Action Plan in order to benchmark future progress in emissions reduction. The inventory reveals the largest
sources of emissions, which is useful for focusing mitigation efforts. For example, the majority of Scope 1 and
2 emissions are directly attributed to the operation of campus buildings, while findings reflected Scope 3
emissions are dominated by Student Air Travel Home at the end of each semester. This inventory used in
conjunction with detailed analytics has created a roadmap to plan for future mitigation of emissions.
NYU-Poly has developed three realistic scenarios in working toward climate neutrality. 2030 is the established
target date to achieve the ambitious goal when the University will produce net-zero emissions, meaning that
NYU-Poly will operate without emitting greenhouse gases through a variety of well-planned mitigation
measures. NYU-Poly is determined to achieve optimal greenhouse gas emissions reductions in a way that is
technically and fiscally feasible, while staying true to its academic vision.
In addition to limiting operational environmental impact, the ACUPCC also commits NYU-Poly to incorporating
climate neutrality and sustainability into its overall educational experience, research agenda, and community
outreach efforts.
2.1.1. NYU-Poly’s plans to make sustainability a part of the curriculum
NYU-Poly is an institution for students looking to advance in science and technology. Academic offerings at
Poly that address climate change include, but are not limited to, the following courses.
 Course CE3223: Environmental Engineering I. Each semester, students in this course learn how a wide
range of activities—including the burning of fossil fuels, changes in land use, and cement production—
contribute to carbon emissions. Students assess waste source reduction, recycling, the use of renewable
energies, and other environmental conservation measures with significant potential to reduce carbon
emissions. Future emission scenarios are also discussed in terms of environmental protection and
economic development.
 Course CE7753: Urban Environmental Systems Management. Students receive an introduction to General
Circulation Models (GCMs) to make an assessment of future emissions/climate change scenarios.
Environmental sustainability, as it is relates to carbon emissions, are discussed in terms of growth in
population, affluence, GDP, and energy consumption.
NYU-Poly is part of New York's Accelerator for a Clean and Renewable Economy (ACRE), a “clean-tech”
incubator with a New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) grant to seed fund
qualifying startup companies. NYU-Poly is offering a Cleantech Execs program that offers 10 intensive, daylong work sessions and seminars featuring clean-tech industry practices, operational lessons, site visits, and
participation in real-world projects. Senior faculty members from NYU-Poly and New York University will be
joined by lecturers from industry and finance experts. The curriculum was developed out of an intensive
research and original curriculum effort.
6
ASHRAE Level II audits were completed by Steve Winters & Associates in September 2010
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
2.1.2. NYU-Poly’s plans to expand research efforts toward the achievement of climate neutrality
The basic, applied, and translational research carried out by NYU-Poly’s faculty has several focus areas that
directly contribute to progress towards carbon neutrality, green chemistry, and the generation of green and
renewable energy sources, all of which are key components for achieving the goal of climate neutrality. These
efforts include those of individual researchers, institutional research initiatives involving multi-disciplinary
groups of faculty, as well as targeted technology transfer and commercialization routes of faculty-generated
intellectual property in areas that support climate neutrality.
For instance, Professor Richard Gross, a chemistry professor and winner of the 2003 Presidential Green
Chemistry Award, conducts research into using biocatalyst and bioprocessing of macromolecules to produce
commodity chemicals from non-petroleum-based feedstock.
Professor Ted Rappaport (in the Electrical Engineering Dept.) is developing wireless technologies with
applications for smart grids, Microgrids, and real-time building performance monitoring. Professor Francisco
De Leon, also a faculty member in Electrical Engineering, is developing a new distribution toroidal transformer
that is smaller, lighter, more efficient, and free of chemicals for cooling, and has reduced noise and RF
emissions. These areas of focus will be strengthened further with the launch of NYU’s Center for Urban
Science & Progress (CUSP), the University’s flagship applied science institute that will address global urban
challenges, including climate challenges, with cutting-edge, data-driven technologies designed to leverage
cities’ density, scale, and dynamism.
NYU-Poly is already a leader in supporting the development of cleantech applications. Most of the tenant
companies at NYU-Poly’s cleantech incubator, The NYC Accelerator for a Clean and Renewable Economy (NYC
ACRE), are playing a key role in this market growth. For example, Energex Technologies, an environmental
monitoring and management company, is working on a first-of-its-kind environmental sensor technology that
will allow organizations to assess and monitor critical environmental variables (including temperature,
humidity, pressure, air flow, gaps, vibrations, smoke, and pollutants) without the need for multiple sensors,
and with estimated maintenance cost savings of up to 60%. Energex is in the vanguard of companies that
bridge the gap between traditional, infrastructure-based cleantech companies and IT-driven “cleanweb”
companies that develop Web- or IT-based solutions to optimize resource use and accelerate the clean
economy.
NYU-Poly has also initiated research to support Building Information Models (BIM) to reduce energy use,
waste, water, and GHG emissions while improving indoor air quality. It is a priority to incorporate sustainability
into the design of campus buildings that are technically satisfactory, economically feasible, and
environmentally responsible. Specifically issues of importance include schedules of building components to
determine percentages of reuse, recycling, and salvage; better design optimization with parametric
programming, and making information required for sustainable design, analysis, and certification routinely
available simply as a byproduct of the standard design process. NYU-Poly intends to introduce these topics in
courses that are offered. Student research has also encompassed climate change activity. In the last two
years, at least six graduate-level research projects in the School of Environmental Engineering & Sciences
have investigated the impact of climate change under different emission scenarios on sea level rise, rainfall,
temperature, floods/storm surges, water demand for domestic and agricultural uses, and bioclimatic
stress/strain on the human body in New York city and state.
Through international collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNEDP), the United
Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and other agencies, emission scenarios
in other places around the globe including the Middle East have been subject to study and research. A
significant number of textbooks and papers have been published by faculty and graduate students addressing
the impacts of climate change.
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2.1.3. NYU-Poly’s plans to expand community outreach efforts toward achievement of climate neutrality
In May 2009, NYU-Poly began a transformation process centered on six driving principles for establishing a
successful Capital Improvement Plan: i2e, Green, Engagement Process, Transparent Process, Strategic
Planning, and Exemplary Design. A strong governance system established early in the process welcomed
input from the entire NYU-Poly community and promoted transparency and collaboration. Several
committees composed of faculty, staff members, students, and administration were engaged in the process
and included: Steering, Space Planning, Special Projects, Laboratory, and Academic Spaces.
Poly has historically hosted community outreach activities, such as the Green Expo, which brings together
New York City middle and high school students, NYU-Poly students, and “green” professionals to celebrate
Earth Day and learn about sustainability, with the ultimate goal of inspiring the students to pursue science,
technology, engineering, and math (STEM) educational and career paths towards becoming the next
generation of Green Leaders.
Poly will continue to build community support to further its goal of climate neutrality. As an institution built on
leadership, Poly strives to model best practices that will benefit the community as a whole.
The New York City Mayoral University Challenge - Commitment to 30% Emissions Reduction by 2018
NYU-Poly is participating in the PlaNYC Mayoral University Challenge and has a goal of reducing greenhouse
gas emissions from buildings and operations by 30% over the next ten years—or “30 in 10.” University
Partners of the Mayoral Challenge are expected to complete two primary deliverables by the end of the first
year: (1) complete a campus-wide greenhouse gas inventory; and (2) undertake an action planning process
that includes identifying energy conservation and greenhouse gas reduction measures, resulting in a final
action plan that includes estimated payback periods and calculations of projected greenhouse gas reduction
impact. The mayoral challenge baseline is the 2006–2007 fiscal year, which means that the 30% emissions
reduction target date is 2018.
Contextual Data – Endowment Size and Operating Budget
NYU-Poly’s FY 2008–2009 endowment was approximately $88,000,000, and the FY 2008–2009 operating
budget was approximately $103,000,000.7 The amount of money spent on electricity and natural gas for the
fiscal year totaled $3,123,700.
NYU-Poly’s Climate Action Plan includes a number of measures that require capital and operational funding. A
comprehensive analysis was conducted to identify which mix of improvement measures best fits the needs of
the campus while staying within defined budgets and the timeline for achieving Poly’s emissions reduction
goals. This assessment helped to identify which improvement measures will result in an immediate return on
investment; which will require substantial time and capital outlays prior to achieving cost savings; and which
are less likely to elicit direct financial returns, but will generate valuable short- and long-term social and
environmental benefits. Three potential scenarios were developed and shared with the Capital Improvement
Plan stakeholders, as well as with Poly’s Sustainability Task Force. Ultimately, the parties arrived at a plan
capable of striking a balance between the immediate functional needs of the campus facilities and the longerterm emissions reduction targets set forth in both program commitments.
7
Data provided by
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3. NYU-POLY GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS INVENTORY SUMMARY
The ACUPCC and PlaNYC Mayoral University Challenge require GHG inventory reporting for different years
(2008-2009 fiscal year for the ACUPCC and 2006-2007 fiscal year for the University Challenge), different
data (ACUPCC is more comprehensive), and using different reporting/analysis tools.
The GHG emissions inventory for the ACUPCC is based on the Clean Air-Cool Planet Campus Carbon
Calculator (V6.4).8 This section follows the reporting needs outlined in the AASHE’s President’s Climate
Commitment reporting instructions9. The GHG emissions inventory developed for PlaNYC Mayoral University
Challenge is based on the PlaNYC Greenhouse Gas Emissions calculator, version 2010.1, developed by the
NYC Mayor's Office of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability.
GHG Emissions Inventory Results
NYU-Poly’s greenhouse gas emissions are summarized below for the 2008-2009 fiscal year (the GHG
inventory with the latest and most comprehensive data). Greenhouse gas accounting practices break
emissions into three categories, or “scopes.”
Scope 1 emissions are direct GHG emissions occurring from sources that are owned or controlled by the
reporting institution. NYU-Poly’s total Scope 1 emissions for the 2008-2009 fiscal year are 3,312 metric tons
of CO2 equivalents (MtCO2e). This includes on-site natural gas combustion (used for space heating and water
heating), diesel used in the emergency generators, campus-owned vehicle gasoline use, and refrigerants. Onsite natural gas combustion was the primary contributor to Scope 1 emissions for NYU-Poly.
Figure 1: Schematic diagram representing the concepts of Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions
Scope 2 emissions include indirect emissions from electricity use. Scope 2 emissions are the result of an
institution’s activities but the actual emissions occur at an offsite location under another legal entity’s control
(e.g., a power plant). In addition to electricity, purchased steam, hot water or chilled water are typical Scope 2
8
http://www.cleanair-coolplanet.org/toolkit/inv-calculator.php
9
www.aashe.org/pcc/reports/instructions-ghg-report.php
CTG Energetics, Inc.
10
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
GHG emissions encountered on some other college campuses but not applicable at NYU-Poly. The campus’
total Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions are 3,877 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (MtCO2e).
Scope 3
emissions are all indirect emissions not covered in Scopes 1 or 2. Scope 3 emissions are not
directly “owned” by the college as a legal entity10, but are nonetheless related to campuses collective
activities and accounting for them helps the campus understand its total greenhouse gas emissions from a
holistic perspective. ACUPCC institutions agree to count and address Scope 3 emissions resulting from official
business air travel and student, faculty, and staff commuting.11 The inventory also optionally included
emissions associated with students’ travel from campus to home once per semester. It is not required that
these emissions be addressed in the Climate Action Plan. Total Scope 3 emissions during the 2008-2009
fiscal year are 7,082 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e). The Scope 3 emissions required to
be addressed by this Climate Action Plan according to ACUPCC requirements are student and faculty
commuting, as well as directly financed air travel, both of which total to 1,195 metric tons of carbon dioxide
equivalent (MtCO2e). Table 1 summarizes NYU-Poly’s greenhouse gas emissions.
10
From a greenhouse gas accounting perspective, airplane GHG emissions accrue to the airlines, commuting GHG emissions accrue
to the individual commuter, etc.
11 Simpson,
Walter, Cool Campus! A How-To Guide for College and University Climate Action Planning. 2009
http://www.aashe.org/files/resources/cool-campus-climate-planning-guide.pdf
CTG Energetics, Inc.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Table 1: NYU-Poly 2008-2009 fiscal year greenhouse gas emissions, per ACUPCC. Emissions that are not addressed by
this Climate Action Plan are greyed out.
Energy
CO2
CH4
N20
CO2e
MMBtu
kg
kg
kg
MT
Co-gen Electricity
-
-
-
-
-
Co-gen Steam
-
-
-
-
-
Other On-Campus Stationary12
58,095
3,064,892
306
6
3,074
Direct Transportation
384
26,891
5
2
28
Refrigerants & Chemicals
-
-
-
-
110
Agriculture
-
-
-
-
-
Purchased Electricity
74,393
3,869,664
69
20
3,877
Purchased Steam / Chilled Water
-
-
-
-
-
Faculty / Staff Commuting
4,572
301,204
26
10
305
Student Commuting
10,039
572,767
39
13
578
Directly Financed Air Travel
4,417
309,713
9
10
313
Student Ground Travel Home
354
24,836
5
2
25
Student Air Travel Home
67,127
4,707,015
130
149
4,754
Solid Waste
-
-
15,730
-
362
Wastewater
-
-
2,014
14
51
Paper
-
-
-
-
310
Scope 2 T&D Losses
7,358
382,714
7
2
383
Emission Source
Scope 1
Scope 2
Scope 3
Offsets
Totals
Additional
-
Non-Additional
-
Scope 1
58,479
3,091,783
312
8
3,212
Scope 2
74,393
3,869,664
69
20
3,877
Scope 3
93,867
6,298,250
17,960
200
7,080
Scope 3 addressed in CAP
263,386
All Scopes
226,738
1,195
13,259,698
18,341
228
14,169
Net emissions addressed by this Climate Action Plan13
12
13
Other On-Campus Stationary Emissions represent on-site natural gas combustion for building heating and cooling
Emissions not required to be addressed by ACUPCC institutions have been greyed out
CTG Energetics, Inc.
12
8,284
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Figure 2 presents NYU-Poly’s 2008-2009 greenhouse gas emissions graphically. The blue pie wedges
represent Scope 1 emissions. The red wedge represents the Scope 2 emissions, and the green shaded
wedges represent Scope 3 emissions.
Figure 2: NYU-Poly’s 2008–2009 fiscal year greenhouse gas emissions, metric tons of CO2e (MtCO2e)
ACUPCC climate action requirements dictate that Scope 3 emissions from student and faculty/staff
commuting and directly financed air travel must be include in the Climate Action Plan. The other Scope 3
emissions were optionally included in the GHG inventory and do not need to be included in the Climate Action
Plan. Figure 3 presents NYU-Poly’s greenhouse gas emission data broken down in more detail by scope.
CTG Energetics, Inc.
13
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Figure 3: NYU-Poly’s 2008–2009 fiscal year greenhouse gas emissions by scope, metric tons of CO2e (mTCO2e)
CTG Energetics, Inc.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Emissions Inventory Methodology and Boundaries
3.1.1. Reporting Time Period
The greenhouse gas inventory period corresponds to NYU-Poly’s Fiscal Year, spanning July through June. The
base reporting year is the Fiscal Year of July 2008—June 2009 for the ACUPCC and the Fiscal Year of July
2006—June 2007 for PlaNYC Mayoral University Challenge.
3.1.2. Organizational Boundary
The organizational boundary used for this GHG inventory includes the main NYU-Poly campus located in
Brooklyn, New York, over which NYU-Poly has direct operational and financial control. NYU-Poly’s buildings
located in the Long Island Graduate Center, Westchester Graduate Center, and Manhattan locations are not
included in this inventory.
The following buildings are included within the boundary: Rogers Hall Complex (comprised of Rogers Hall,
Jacobs Academic Building, Jacobs Building and Civil Engineering), Othmer Residence Hall, Dibner
Library/CATT Building, and Wunsch Building.
NYU-Poly is an affiliate of New York University. This audit does not include any emissions from New York
University-owned facilities or operations; New York University conducts an independent GHG inventory for the
ACUPCC.
3.1.3. Inventory Process
The NYU-Poly GHG inventory was a collaborative effort between NYU-Poly, Jonathan Rose Companies, and The
Cadmus Group (formerly CTG Energetics). Cadmus helped guide NYU-Poly and Jonathan Rose in the data
collection efforts. In addition, some of the data used in this inventory was derived from an Interim Draft
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory conducted by EcoTech International,14 energy audits conducted by
Steven Winters Associates for the capital planning process, and related information provided by Jonathan
Rose Company. Cadmus assembled the data, entered the data into the Clean Air-Cool Planet calculator, and
prepared the greenhouse gas inventory report for the ACUPCC. Additionally, a GHG emissions report was
prepared based on the PlaNYC Greenhouse Gas Emissions calculator, version 2010.1, developed by NYC
Mayor's Office of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability. Emission factors and warming potentials are from
the PlaNYC Greenhouse Gas Emissions calculator, version 2010.1, developed by NYC Mayor's Office of LongTerm Planning and Sustainability. The electricity emissions are based on New York City-specific emissions
coefficients provided by the Inventory of New York City Greenhouse Gas Emissions.15
3.1.4. Normalization and Contextual Data
The following normalization and contextual data for the 2008-2009 fiscal year is required by the ACUPCC.
14
“Polytechnic Institute of NYU: Interim Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory – Buildings.” Prepared in fulfillment of
plaNYC2030. October 8, 2009.
15
Inventory Of New York City Greenhouse Gas Emissions September 2010
(http://www.nyc.gov/html/planyc2030/downloads/pdf/greenhousegas_2010.pdf)
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
15
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
3.1.5. Building Space
The total gross building square footage at NYU-Poly’s Brooklyn campus is 689,000 square feet16. A detailed
breakout by building is shown below. Note that the Civil Engineering building is currently vacated, but is still
being minimally heated. The Civil Engineering and the Jacobs Administration Building are both slated for
demolition in the near future.
Table 2: NYU-Poly gross square footage by building
Building Name
Civil Engineering Building
Dibner Library
Jacobs Academic Building
Jacobs Administration Building
Othmer Residence Hall
Rogers Hall
Wunsch Hall
TOTAL
Gross SF
16,400
128,000
82,800
65,200
127,500
257,600
11,500
689,000
Net assignable square feet of laboratory space
Total NYU-Poly net assignable square feet of laboratory space, per the U.S. Department of Education's
Postsecondary Education Facilities Inventory and Classification Manual, totals 77,545 square feet.17
Net assignable square feet of residential space
Total NYU-Poly net assignable square feet of residential space, per the U.S. Department of Education's
Postsecondary Education Facilities Inventory and Classification Manual, totals 60,310 square feet18.
16
Gross square footage of NYU-Poly Brooklyn Campus buildings provided by Beyer Blinder Belle, Architects & Planners LLP based on
CAD drawings prepared by Mancini Duffy except Wunsch Hall which used 1995 project drawings.
17
Provided by Jonathan Rose from NYU-Poly’s “Polytech_AllSpaceData” excel workbook 8/11/2010.
18
Data Provided by Jonathan Rose from NYU-Poly’s “Polytech_AllSpaceData” excel workbook 8/11/2010.
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
3.1.6. Student Population
Student population data for the 2008-2009 fiscal year is summarized below in Table 3.
Table 3: NYU-Poly 2008–2009 student population
NYU-Poly Student Population for FY 2008–200919
Total Student Enrollment (FTE)
Student Enrollment (Part-time)
Residential Students
Full-Time Commuter Students
Part-Time Commuter Students
Non-Credit Students
3,730
1,176
483
2,863
1,168
0
Faculty and Staff Population
In FY 2008-2009, NYU-Poly employed 152 faculty and 329 staff members. 20
Auditing and Verification
The Cadmus Group, Inc. (formerly CTG Energetics, Inc.) was contracted to help guide the NYU-Poly in
developing its greenhouse gas inventory. Cadmus has verified and confirmed the numbers to the greatest
extent possible. The audit has not, however, gone through a third party verification process. The full NYU-Poly
GHG inventory report, titled “Polytechnic Institute of New York University Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report
Fiscal Year 2008-2009” was submitted to the ACUPCC in March 2011.
19
Data Provided by Richard Feltman, University Registrar NYU-Poly and Dennis Dintino, Vice President of Finance and Business
Affairs, NYU-Poly.
20
Data Provided by Richard Feltman, University Registrar NYU-Poly.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
4. EMISSIONS REDUCTION PLAN
NYU-Poly Campus Emissions Reduction Strategy
The NYU-Poly Climate Action Plan was developed by analyzing a comprehensive set of NYU-Poly campusspecific reduction measures, and then identifying a smaller group of measures within these that most
appropriately fit the goals and expectations of the NYU-Poly campus. The selected group of measures needed
to stay within realistic budgets, while still meeting the ambitious emissions reduction targets and timelines of
the ACUPCC and the PlaNYC Mayoral University Challenge. One of the challenges in developing a concrete set
of measures was the rapidly evolving major Capital Improvement Plan for the campus, which will ultimately
determine the ability to implement the identified measures within the climate action plan. Given this level of
uncertainty, a strategic three-phase emissions reduction plan was developed to be flexible and open-minded.
The categorization of measures within these phases included a consideration of the anticipated capital plan
implementation timeline, upfront costs and payback, total emissions reduction potential, and overall
compatibility with the capital improvement plan. Figure 4 illustrates the methodology behind this approach.
Figure 4: NYU-Poly Strategic Emissions Reduction Plan
The three phases of the emissions reduction plan will likely overlap with one another, but in general the
framework is dictated by: (a) projected time of implementation; and (b) the likelihood that the measure will be
implemented.
Phase 1 (P1) measures are almost certain to occur or are already being implemented, and serve as a good
starting point for campus emissions reductions. The overall reductions from these measures are minimal.
Phase 2 (P2) measures have a higher capital cost, and the budget for these measures are not yet accounted
for. However, almost all of these measures offer good payback, significantly reduce energy and emissions,
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
18
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
and in general help to improve building performance and occupant comfort. The completion of Phase 2
measures would also allow NYU-Poly to reach the PlaNYC Mayor Challenge by 2018.
Phase 3 (P3) measures are the most aggressive measures, and generally have significant ($200,000 or
greater) capital costs. The ROI on these measures is not as compelling as that of Phase 2 measures; however
they provide the most feasible strategy for NYU-Poly to reach climate neutrality, per the ACUPCC goal. As the
final step in reaching climate neutrality, carbon and renewable energy offsets are suggested as a means to
net out the remaining GHG emissions. The specific measures of each phase of the plan are detailed in the
following sections.
NYU-Poly GHG Emissions Forecasting
In order to evaluate the potential of the various proposed emission reduction measures, it is necessary to
model the anticipated GHG emissions trajectory for the campus if no action is taken, in what is known as a
business-as-usual (BAU) scenario. These projections take into predictive factors such as campus building
growth and changing emissions factors over time. As a baseline scenario, a BAU GHG emission projection was
modeled that represents the anticipated growth of GHG emissions over time if no action is taken to address
GHG emissions or energy use. All emission reduction measures are then measured in comparison with this
BAU condition.
Figure below shows the anticipated BAU GHG emissions trajectory for the NYU-Poly Campus, starting in 2007
(the first GHG inventory year) and ending in 2030 (the target date to reach the ACUPCC climate neutrality
goal). GHG emissions are broken apart by Scope as defined in the GHG Inventory (Section 1). The specific
factors that influence the GHG emissions projections over time are:
1. Changes in total campus building square footage. Changes anticipated include the demolition of Jacobs
Admin Building and Civil Engineering, the leasing of MetroTech Center space, and the planned
construction of the Science & Engineering building. These capital changes are modeled to impact Scope 1
and 2 GHG emissions.
2. Student growth. The 10-year campus student growth plan anticipates a 63% growth in student population
from 2009 to 2020. Student growth is modeled to impact Scope 3 emissions only.
3. NYC Electricity Emissions Factor. The NYC grid-average emissions factor has been steadily declining, and
is expected to decrease by 10% from 2009 to 2020.
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
19
18,000
Scope 1 emissions (NG)
Scope 2 emissions (elec)
Scope 3 emissions (non-bldg)
PlaNYC Target
ACUPCC Climate
Neutral Goal
GHG emissions (MT CO2e)
16,000
14,000
12,000
10,000
ACUPCC
inventory
PlaNYC
inventory
Science &
Engineering Bldg
Demo CE &
PlaNYC
Jacobs Admin Reduction Target
Lease
MTC Space
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2007 2009 2011 2013 2015 2017 2019 2021 2023 2025 2027 2029
Figure 5: NYU-Poly Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions Forecast 2007–2030 – The dark, medium, and light blue bars represent Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions
respectively. The dotted black line shows the PlaNYC GHG emissions intensity reduction target (CO 2e per SF) starting in the year 2018, the target deadline to
achieve the 30% reduction. Significant events are shown throughout the timeline such as the GHG inventory baseline year, the leasing of new space, the
demolition of vacant buildings, and the new construction of the Science & Engineering building. GHG emissions estimates are dependent on these capital
improvements, as well as projected student growth, and a changing NYC electricity emissions factor over time (the NYC grid is expected to be made cleaner).
20
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Phase 1 Emission Reduction Measures
Near-Term Emission Reduction Measures and the 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan
Phase 1 emission reduction measures consist of measures that directly align with the current NYU-Poly 5-YR
Capital Improvement Plan. The 5-YR Capital Improvement Plan began in 2009 and all the measures are expected
to be complete by 2014. They include a variety of renovations, from structural improvement and fire and safety
upgrades to new laboratory space and the tenant fit out of newly leased space in Metrotech Center. The
measures suggest low-cost or no-cost energy efficiency best practices when completing specific renovations
within the campus for Rogers Hall, Jacobs Academic Building, Dibner Library, Othmer Hall and new tenant fit
outs for Metrotech Center. Some of these measures are already being implemented on campus and
demonstrate NYU-Poly’s commitment. Total emissions reductions for this Phase are expected to be 482
mTCO2e.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Table 1 lists all the measures included within this phase. A detailed discussion of selected measures is
included below by individual building.
4.1.1. Rogers Complex Phase 1 Measures
The Rogers complex is the largest and most energy intensive set of buildings on campus. It consists of Rogers
Hall, Jacobs Academic Building, Civil Engineering and Jacobs Administration Building. As part of the capital
plan, the Civil Engineering and the Jacobs Administration Building will be demolished. Jacobs Academic, the
newest building in the complex will receive some minor upgrades. Rogers Hall, the largest building in the
complex and of the campus will undergo some major renovations. These planned renovations provide a
significant opportunity to improve the energy performance of the building and thus reduce GHG emissions.
P1.1
Integration of Lab21 best practices for New Laboratory Space:
The repurposing and design of new laboratory space from existing classrooms and other spaces is identified
below as a major opportunity. These measures directly coincide with the following Capital Plan:
o
o
o
Renovation of 5,800 sf of existing classrooms into equipment-based laboratories
Renovation of 3,800 sf of existing classrooms into wet laboratories
i2e equipment-based laboratory creation via consolidated space (1,000 sf)
Figure 6: Example state-of-the-art chemistry lab renovation with filtered fume hoods and LED lighting
During the renovation of these spaces there are a number of design best practices that should be considered,
and incorporated as appropriate to the space (see Labs21 Best Practices below).
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
LABS21 B EST PRACTICES
Laboratories typically consume large amounts of energy, often 3—4 times more than offices per square foot.
Along with the typical lighting power and office-type equipment plug loads, a large amount of this energy
consumption comes from stringent ventilation-related requirements, as well as large plug loads from
specialized laboratory equipment. Heating and cooling is typically run 24 hours per day unlike the typical 8—
5 occupant schedule load-driven HVAC systems of an office building. NYU-Poly plans on building both Webbased and equipment-based laboratories. Web-based laboratory consumption will be dominated by fume
hood use and large plug loads with internal heat gains from specialized equipment (e.g. refrigerators, ovens,
centrifuges, pumps, water baths, spectrometers, etc.). Equipment-based laboratories will have significant
computer equipment plug loads, and server rooms and network equipment that will require constant cooling.
Appropriate design strategies for these unique spaces can greatly reduce energy consumption. Typical best
practices for laboratory design and operations include:

Zone segregation of energy-intensive process operations tasks to avoid unnecessarily ventilating and
cooling non-critical zones

Right sizing equipment and accounting for an appropriate diversity factor. Laboratory HVAC systems
in particular tend to be oversized because equipment (e.g. fume hoods) is assumed to be running all
the time while in reality this is often not the case.

VAV Supply and fume hood exhaust systems and
\ variable frequency drives on pumps and fans

Specify premium high-efficiency equipment. Because of the high utilization of equipment and energyintensive nature of laboratories, the payback on these purchases will be shorter than in a typical
building.

Reduce Static Pressure Drop with best practices duct design and low face-velocity coils and filters.

Energy recovery from exhaust air or process cooling water (e.g. enthalpy wheels)

Incorporate energy monitoring and control systems with direct digital controls. Meter HVAC, lighting
and plug loads separately, so that along with proper controls, staff training and maintenance,
systems can operate efficiently and optimally.

Lighting- Occupancy sensor controls and daylighting controls (where appropriate)

Lighting - Energy efficient lamps and ballasts

Daylighting to allow for daytime lighting load reduction and improved occupant experience

Task Lighting with occupant controls
For more information and tools on designing laboratory space efficiently and effectively, refer to the Labs21
program and tool kit (http://www.i2sl.org/resources/toolkit.html).
P1.2
Rogers Café & Corridor - 3,000 sf renovation (completed)
One of the early action items included in the NYU-Poly i2e transformation and campus Climate Action Plan
included the renovation of the Rogers Hall Café and Corridor, a central artery and gathering space on campus.
Energy and emissions savings related measures from this renovation included reduced lighting density and
the additional use of daylighting. These measures both reduced energy use and improved indoor occupant
satisfaction. Total savings here were estimated at 5,250 kWh (2 MtCO2e) annually.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Figure 7: The newly renovated Rogers Hall Cafe with lighting and daylight harvesting enhancements
P1.3
Rogers Hall Restroom Infrastructure Improvements: 3 restrooms (completed)
Another early action item at Rogers Hall was to reduce lighting density and remove core radiators in restrooms
that were unnecessarily overheating the space. This will reduce energy use and improve occupant comfort.
This measure was implemented in 2010 and estimated savings are 13,500 kWh (2 mTCO2e) annually.
P1.4
Retro Commissioning of Rogers Hall Café and IT controls (completed)
Improved controls means less energy used when it is not needed. This measure was implemented in 2010.
Monitoring of operations and adjustments to controls should be performed as needed and on a continuous
basis.
4.1.2. Dibner Library and Othmer Hall Measures
Capital Plan aligned Phase 1 reduction measures at Dibner Library and Othmer Hall include:
P1.5
Dibner Library Roof Replacement
A new “cool roof” for Dibner Library will reduce energy use for the building due to both improved insulation
and a highly reflective surface that reduces heat gain. If implemented, this measure will result in an estimated
126,500 kWh reduction in facility energy use and a 27 mTCO2e emissions reduction by 2014.
P1.6
Retro commissioning – Dibner mechanical systems and controls (partially completed)
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
24
NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
The control system at Dibner has been both problematic and is fast approaching the end of its useful life. The
system is primarily direct digital control (DDC), but some areas of the building still utilized pneumatic controls.
In addition, the control logic algorithms appeared to have been overridden so that the building is operating at
a very sub-optimal level, leading to continuous equipment operation, occupant discomfort, and wasted
energy. Retro-commissioning the systems and controls can help return the building to original specifications.
This effort has already begun, and digital controls have replaced the pneumatics. A full retro-commissioning of
these new controls is projected to save 693,221 kWh annually and reduce annual emissions by 151 mTCO2e.
P1.7
Othmer Hall Roof Replacement
A new “cool roof” for Othmer Hall will reduce energy use by decreasing the cooling load in the summer
months. If implemented, this measure will result in a 10,100 kWh reduction in facility energy use and a 3
mTCO2e emissions reduction by 2014.
P1.8
Othmer Hall Retro-commissioning - cooling fan and pump controls (partially completed)
Othmer is a building with average HVAC systems with below average performance. Analysis of the utility data
shows a consistently high electric base load consumption that cannot be fully explained by higher-than-normal
occupant related loads or even inefficient lighting. Typically, when no obvious reasons can be identified to
account for higher than normal electricity consumption, the problem is related to the control and operation of
the building systems and the building is a candidate for retro-commissioning (Retro-Cx).
SWA analyzed outputs from the Honeywell Building Management System and observed conditions that
suggested the variable speed controlled fans and pumps are not ramping down at times of low demand.
Continuous operation at full power of the fans and pumps running could explain the consistently high electric
consumption observed in the bills. Estimated savings potential for this measure is 153,092 kWh and 48
mTCO2e.
4.1.3. Metrotech Center Build-Out Measures
P1.9
Plug Load and Lighting Best Practices in Metrotech Center
NYU-Poly will also be leasing more space at the Metrotech Center. This new space will house faculty offices
and research spaces for two (2) academic departments; specifically the Computer Science Engineering
Department (CSE) and Electrical & Computer Engineering Department (ECE). It will also contain five (5)
general classrooms (approximately 40 seats), and a computer server room that will house the servers for the
University, CSE departments, and research functions. In addition, the leased areas will have conference
rooms, lounge and pantry areas, and file storage space. The leased space will be occupied as-is wherever
possible, but some alterations (such as new carpeting, painting and lighting retrofitting) will be required. NYUPoly will attempt to reduce plug loads and lighting power density where possible, as this can translate into
significant savings. Typical best practices for reducing lighting and plug loads during design are shown below.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
R EDUCING PLUG LOADS - BEST PRACTICES
Plug loads both consume electrical energy and generate heat, which is then removed from the space by the
air conditioning system. In many office buildings, the heat released by plug loads and lighting systems can
require air conditioning year around. The following best practices should be followed wherever applicable to
help reduce plug loads:

Smart power strips with either scheduling capabilities or occupancy sensors should be used when
possible.

All computers should be set to hibernate after five minutes of inactivity. “Hibernation” sets the
computer into a standby state, reducing energy use.

Procedures for use of screen savers, games and general computer configuration should be
established to ensure that hibernation mode is not affected.

Portable plug-in watt meters should be provided for use by staff to check electrical consumption of
miscellaneous electrical devices to enable them to measure and understand their individual
consumption.

The electrical system should be configured for floorby-floor plug load metering.

Use of plug-in fans, heaters and refrigerators should
be prohibited in work stations and offices. These
seemingly small loads can actually be very
significant, especially in the case of small plug-in
space heaters.

ENERGY STAR qualified equipment, where
applicable, both in the office (such as copiers,
scanners, and printers) and in the kitchen
(microwaves, vending machines, refrigerators)
when possible is recommended.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
LIGHTING BEST PRACTICES
In a typical office building, lighting can account for anywhere from 20% to upwards of 45% of total energy
use. Often time’s significant energy savings can be realized with a minimal investment of capital and
common sense. Installing and maintaining photo-controls, time clocks, and energy management systems
can also achieve extraordinary savings. Some practices to keep in mind are:

Utilize daylighting whenever possible. Using natural light to illuminate areas instead of electric lights
is an easy way to achieve significant savings. In addition, improvements in sensors and photo-cell
controls make it possible to automate much of this progress, so that the electric lights will
automatically turn themselves on or off and/or dim as necessary.

Automated shade controls can be implemented in daylight harvesting situations to provide shade
during times of day where solar glare is an issue, and offering maximum daylight at other times.
Without automated shade controls, often many daylight harvesting opportunities are missed
because shades remain down throughout the day.

Maintain proper light levels. Over-illuminating a space not only wastes energy, it can decrease
occupant comfort.

Use energy efficient bulbs and fixtures. Upgrading to high efficiency fixtures will allow you to maintain
lighting levels while using less energy, as more efficient fixtures lose less energy as heat.

Task lighting. Task Lighting provides good illumination only in the areas where the task is being
performed, while the general lighting level is lower. If sensibly implemented, this can reduce the
number of general lighting fixtures, reduce the wattage of lamps, save considerable energy and
provide better illumination.

Automated controls. Proper use of timers, light sensors, and occupancy sensors can result in
significant energy savings by turning off lights when they are not needed.

Proper maintenance. Maintenance is vital to lighting efficiency. Light levels decrease over time
because of aging lamps and dirt on fixtures, lamps and room surfaces. Together, these factors can
reduce total illumination by 50% or more, while lights continue drawing full power.
Taken together and based on reasonable plug load reductions (0.5 W/SF reduction from typical) and lighting
load reduction (0.5 W/SF from typical) estimates, these best practices can result in a projected 372,882 kWh
reduction in Metrotech energy use and an 117 mTCO2e emissions reduction by 2014.
4.1.4. Combined Phase 1 Summary
If all of the above measures are implemented, they will result in a total 1,972,873 kWh reduction in campus
energy use, with MTCO2e emissions reduced by approximately 482 mTCO2e. This is equal to 6% of total
campus building emissions (Scope 1 and 2) or 5% of total campus emissions (all Scopes). The full
implementation of Phase 1 measures will be a strong first step and demonstrates NYU-Poly’s commitment to
energy and GHG emissions reductions. However, in order to achieve the PlanNYC 30% reduction target,
additional reductions are needed. Phase 2 (Section 0) measures outline a potential set of additional
measures that will allow NYU-Poly to reach this target.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Table 4: Phase 1 Measures Summary21
Facilities Affected
Measure
Description
Projected Emissions
Reduction (mTCO2e)
Rogers Complex
Rogers Complex
Rogers Complex
Rogers Complex
Dibner Library
Dibner Library
Othmer Hall
P1.1
P1.2
P1.3
P1.4
P1.5
P1.6
P1.7
Energy Efficient Laboratories
Rogers Café and Corridor renovation
Restroom Improvements
Rogers Café and IT Controls RetroCx
Dibner Roof Replacement
Dibner RetroCx mechanical systems
Othmer Hall Roof Replacement
96
2
2
36
27
151
3
Othmer Hall
P1.8
Othmer Hall RetroCx cooling system
48
Metrotech Center
P1.7
MTC plug and lighting Load best practices
117
TOTAL
482
Projected Emissions (MTCO2e)
2009 Baseline Emissions
Projected 2014 Emissions with Phase 1 Measures
5,000
4,500
4,000
3,500
3,000
2,500
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0
Rogers
Complex
Othmer Hall
Dibner Library
Wunsch Hall
Metrotech
Center
Figure 8: Phase 1 Measures Reduction Summary by building
21
These emissions reduction estimates are modeled off of the 2009 baseline year. In the emissions projections shown in Figure 4,6
and 8, the annual emissions reductions shift slightly over time due to changes in emissions factors and campus growth.
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Scope 1 emissions (NG)
Scope 3 emissions (non-bldg)
PlaNYC Target
Scope 2 emissions (elec)
Phase 1 Reductions
18,000
GHG emissions (MTCO2e)
16,000
Science & ACUPCC Climate
Engineering Bldg Neutral Target
PlaNYC
14,000
5yr Capital Plan &
Phase 1 completed
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2007
2009
2011
2013
2015
2017
2019
Year
2021
2023
2025
2027
2029
Figure 9: Phase 1: NYU-Poly GHG Emission Projections under (1) Business-as-Usual; (2) with Phase 1 emissions reduction measures. The
dark, medium and light blue bars represent Scope 1, 2 and 3 business-as-usual GHG emissions projections respectively. The dotted black
trend line represents the necessary emissions level to achieve the PlaNYC 30% carbon emissions reduction target (based on emissions
intensity per SF). The red line shows the projected emissions if all the proposed Phase 1 emission reduction measures are completed. The
5-yr capital plan is projected to be completed by 2014 and the Science & Engineering building is expected to be operating by 2022.
Additionally, these projections account for the demolition of Civil Engineering building and Jacobs Administration building, and the lease
out of approximately 81,000 SF of space in MetroTech Center.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Phase 2 Emission Reduction Measures
Mid-Term Emission Reduction Measures to Reach the PlaNYC Reduction Target
Phase 2 emissions reductions focus on cost-effective measures with good paybacks to fit a total budget that
was approximately $1,500,000. NYU-Poly currently has $500K designated for broadly for sustainability
improvements on the campus. The funding for many of these measures could be leveraged by these funds,
with additional grant opportunities from NYSERDA that would be able to cover some of the remainder. Many of
these measures were identified by the ASHRAE Level II energy audit conducted by Steven Winters & Associates
(SWA). Steven Winters Associates completed a series of ASHRAE Level II building energy audits for all buildings
on campus between December 2009 and March 2010. These audits were based primarily on visual
observation of the buildings, system controls and analysis of energy billing data, as well some limited field
testing of boiler combustion efficiency and lighting illuminance level testing. When combined, these measures
will result in a 30% reduction in carbon intensity from the 2007 baseline (CO2e per sf of building space) by the
year 2018, meeting the PlaNYC reduction target.
4.1.5. Rogers Complex Phase 2 Measures
P2.1
Rogers Hall Core Overheating - Remove core radiators (in process)
Perimeter radiators in corridor and restrooms of Rogers Hall are no longer needed due to the Jacobs Academic
Building addition. Theses spaces are now effectively core spaces and are overheated. In fact there are three
separate heating systems being used. The campus is currently in the process of picking a single system to
continue using, while removing the other systems. It is estimated that the removal of 40 unneeded radiators
would result in total savings of 164,120 kWh and will reduce emissions by approximately 30 mTCO2eonce
implemented.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $70,000 with a payback of 10 years.
P2.2
Civil Engineering High Pressure Steam Boiler – Replacement (in process)
Currently, the 80 psi High Pressure Steam boiler in the basement of the Civil Engineering building is used to
heat domestic hot water through a heat exchanger, and is used to provide high pressure steam to a 4th floor
lab in Rogers Hall. The lab only uses this steam for 12 weeks out of the year, but it is provided every day from
6am to 9pm. Improved scheduling of the boiler, combined with alternative ways to generate domestic hot
water could result in significant energy savings. Projected energy savings are 131,882 kWh, with an associated
emissions reduction of 24 mTCO2e. As of 2012, the scheduling and replacement of the existing steam boiler is
in design.
P2.3
Rogers Complex Insulate Condensate Return Valves
Most, if not all, condensate return tanks, piping, and pumps are not insulated. Insulating these will reduce
waste heat, thereby saving energy and increasing occupant comfort. Estimated savings potential for this
measure is 146,536 kWh and 26 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $18,500 with a payback of 3 years.
P2.4
Rogers Hall VAV Fume Hood Systems
Variable air volume (VAV) fume hoods respond to variable sash openings to keep face velocities and fume
capture constant, while reducing the total volume of conditioned makeup air to a minimum. The nominal
baseline condition is currently 72,000 cfm of continuously conditioned outdoor air. Heating this volume of
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
outside air could represent about 50% of the heating load for the Rogers Complex. This measure could reduce
annual energy use by 1,709,759 kWh with an associated emissions reduction of 361 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $450,000 however the payback is less than 4 years. This measure is
one the most impactful steps that NYU-Poly can take reduce energy and energy costs over time. As newer
ventilation code requirements for laboratories will need to be addressed, this measure could result in even
greater savings on an annual basis than projected.
P2.5
Jacobs Academic Building (JAB) Controls Retro-commissioning
There are currently several issues with the controls for equipment in the JAB building, which is contributing to
the following issues:







AHUs not running (ACS C1),
Secondary pump failures on multiple systems
Excess outdoor air in economizer mode during winter
VAV supply flows typically less than 50% of setpoint
Low supply duct static pressure
Return fans not running
Exhaust fans not running
Retro commissioning of the control system, and testing/balancing of the air handling and pumping systems,
can result in significant savings. Projected energy savings from this measure are projected to be 353,071 kWh
and 90 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $110,000 with a payback of less than 5 years.
P2.6
Rogers Complex Daylight Harvesting and Controls
The installation of on/off daylighting controls for glazed JAB corridors can help keep lighting at nominal levels
with less electricity. Additionally Rogers Hall has a number of perimeter spaces, including classrooms and
offices where daylight harvesting is feasible. Daylighting controls will turn off the electric lights when the
amount of natural daylight entering the space is sufficient to maintain 40 foot-candles or more. For many
areas, a simple photocell on/off control methodology is expected to be the most cost effective approach. In
classrooms and other high occupancy areas, continuous dimming ballasts with closed loop photocell control
could help to maintain target light levels. Estimated savings potential for this measure is 88,986 kWh and 28
mTCO2e.
To reasonably estimate the cost of this is measure, the building’s daylighting potential needs to be evaluated
on a space-by-space basis.
P2.7
Rogers Hall LED exit signs
All remaining incandescent exit signs should be replaced with LED exit signs with lighting power of 5 watts or
less per face. This will result in anticipated savings of 30,000 kWh and 9 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $44,000 with a payback of 8 years.
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4.1.6. Dibner Library Measures
P2.8
Dibner Library Daylight Controls
Light levels in the ground floor corridor running from the main entrance past the auditorium and on the third
and fourth floors of the library reading stacks 8 feet from the windows at the individual study areas were
measured. In each instance, recorded light levels exceeded illumination levels recommended by the IESNA for
corridors and library reading areas. Installing automatic controls in the identified spaces capable of turning off
the electric lights when the amount of natural daylight entering the space is sufficient will result in projected
energy savings of 30,900 kWh and will reduce emissions by 9 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $4,000 with a payback of less than 1 year.
P2.9
Dibner Library Air Cooled Chiller Upgrade
A glycol chiller loop provides cooling to various fan coil units and small packaged AC units serving core spaces
that require cooling throughout the year. Replacing the existing chiller with a model capable of taking
advantage of free cooling will allow the unit to exploit cold outside air temperatures to cool the chilled water
instead of running a compressor. Free-cooling chillers employ a heat exchanger through which chilled water is
diverted when favorable outside air conditions occur. Estimated savings potential for this measure is 89,572
kWh and 27 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $95,000 with a payback of less than 6 years.
P2.10
Dibner Lighting Fixture Upgrade (T12 to HPT8)
Currently, the majority of the lighting at Dibner is being provided by linear fluorescent troffer style T12 lighting
fixtures with bulbs rated at either 40 or 34 Watts. Replacing these with high performance (HP) T8 fixtures
could result in significant savings (Projected 218,372 annual kWh savings, with emissions reduced by 83
MTCO2e).
High performance T8 systems are comprised of low-wattage lamps and high-efficiency ballasts and provide
longer lamp lives and higher light output at lower wattage. Retrofit kits are suggested to convert the 3 bulb T12
fixtures to 2 bulb high performance T8s. This will reduce the overall installed wattage, while keeping light at
acceptable levels.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $196,000 with a payback of less than 5 years.
4.1.7. Othmer Hall Measures
P2.11
Othmer Hall Condenser Pump Impeller Trimming
The 30HP condenser water pumps at Othmer have been significantly throttled back indicating that the pumps
are oversized and that the operating head and (or) flow rate are greater than the process requirements. For
oversized and throttled pumps, trimming the impeller is a low cost method of tuning the pumps to operate at
the point that corresponds to the pressure and flow characteristics of the systems they serve.
Trimming the impeller reduces the speed at the impeller’s tip, which reduces the amount of energy imparted to
the water being pumped. As a result, the pump’s pressure and flow rate decrease, throttling is no longer
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
necessary and the pumps can operate at their optimal efficiency. Estimated savings potential for this measure
is 26,845 kWh and 8 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $10,000 with a payback of 2 years.
P2.12
Othmer Hall Overheating Reduction Controls
Recorded space temperatures in Othmer have been in excess of 80F during the heating season, and the
heating systems were enabled. The sequence of operations for the absorption chillers/heaters specifies the
supply temperature of the hot water in the heating loop be capable of being reset based on outside conditions,
but does not specify the minimum temperature. Applying a hot water reset schedule customized for the
building that accounts for the solar gains experienced by Othmer can help to reduce this overheating.
Estimated savings potential for this measure is 549,010 kWh and 99 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $35,000 with a payback of less than 2 years.
P2.13
Othmer Hall Common Areas Lighting Retrofit
Othmer Hall could realize significant energy and emissions savings from a lighting retrofit. 80% of the building
lighting load comes from common areas such as corridors, elevator banks, laundry rooms and lounges.
Measures such as de-lamping areas with excess available lighting (i.e. Residential Corridor), replacing
inefficient fixtures with high efficiency LEDs and utilizing daylighting where possible will result in significant
savings. See the Lighting Best Practices section for more information. A comprehensive retrofit is projected to
reduce energy consumption by 309,020 kWh, with an associated emissions reduction of 97 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost of this is measure can vary significantly depending on the extent of the retrofit.
4.1.8. Wunsch Hall Measures
P2.14
Replace Incandescent Lights
Currently, Wunsch Hall has several recessed parabolic reflector incandescent flood lights installed. Replacing
these with 23 Watt CFLs will result in energy savings, and has a very short payback period. Energy savings from
this measure are projected at 683 kWh.
The cost of this measure is nominal, with a payback of months.
P2.15
LED Exit Signs
All remaining incandescent exit signs should be replaced with LED exit signs with lighting power of 5 watts per
face or less. This measure is projected to save 1,500 kWh.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $2,200 with a payback of less than 8 years.
4.1.9. Campus-Wide Buildings - Emission Reduction Measures
The following measures generally apply to all the buildings on campus, rather than any one particular building.
P2.16
PC Power Management
There are currently a large number of PCs that are fully on when this is not necessary, such as at night or
during semester breaks. Using existing power saving settings (such as setting monitors to sleep and the PC to
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
hibernate after a certain period of no activity has passed) can result in savings. Implementing this measure in
all applicable facilities will save a projected 94,800 kWh and will reduce emissions by 28 mTCO2e.
There are no capital costs associated with this measure.
P2.17
Vending Machine Power Savings
Multiple leased vending machines are present on the NYU-Poly campus. Requesting ENERGY STAR™ label
machines when the lease is up for renewal will result in savings. Also, the addition of power strips with
scheduling controls and/or occupancy sensors will help trim energy use by powering down the machine during
hours when the building will not be occupied. This measure will reduce energy use by 27,456 kWh and
emissions by 9 mTCO2e once implemented.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $6,600 with a payback of less than 2 years.
P2.18
Bi-Level Lighting in Stairwells
Currently the stairwell lights in many of the buildings on campus operate at full power 24 hours per day despite
very low or intermittent use. Installing bi-level lighting fixtures in the stairwells capable of detecting the
presence of occupants, by either Passive Infrared Sensors (PIR) or ultrasonic motion sensors, will reduce the
power consumed by the fixture when the stairs are unoccupied. This measure is projected to save 20,160 kWh
a year, and will reduce emissions by 7 mTCO2e annually.
The estimated cost of this is measure is $72,000 with a payback of approximately 18 years.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
4.1.10.
Combined Phase 2 Summary
If all of the above measures are implemented, they will result in a total 4,021,979 kWh reduction in campus
energy use, with MTCO2e emissions reduced by 911 mTCO2e. This is equal to 11% of total campus emissions
(ACUPCC Scope). Combined with Phase 1 measures this would result in a 28% reduction in building carbon
intensity (PlaNYC scope). The expected additional cost associated with Phase 2 measures is approximately
$1,500,000. Complete implementation of these measures is projected to be completed by 2016. It is also
projected that by 2022, the new Science & Engineering building will be completed. Under Phase 2 projections,
it is estimated that the energy efficiency of the new building will be 10% greater than a typical building, a
modest expectation that is on par with the kind of efficiencies that other Phase 2 measures propose. In Phase
3, more aggressive measures are suggested for the Science & Engineering building. (see Section 4.1.13)
Table 5: Phase 2 Reduction Measures Summary22
Facilities Affected
Measure
Description
Rogers Complex
P2.1
Reduce overheating from core radiators
30
Rogers Complex
P2.2
High pressure steam boiler replacement
24
Rogers Complex
P2.3
Insulate condensate return valves
26
Rogers Complex
P2.4
VAV Fume Hood Systems
361
Rogers Complex
P2.5
JAB Controls retro-commissioning
72
Rogers Complex
P2.6
Daylight Harvesting & Controls
28
Rogers Complex
P2.7
LED Exit Signs
9
Dibner Library
P2.8
Daylight Controls
9
Dibner Library
P2.9
Air Cooled Chiller Upgrade
28
Dibner Library
P2.10
Lighting Fixture Upgrade (T12 to HPT8)
83
Othmer Hall
P2.11
Condenser Pump Impeller Trimming
8
Othmer Hall
P2.12
Overheating reduction controls
99
Othmer Hall
P2.13
Common areas lighting retrofit
97
Wunsch Hall
P2.14
Replace incandescent lights
<1
Wunsch Hall
P2.15
LED Exit Signs
<1
Multiple Facilities
P2.16
PC power management
28
Multiple Facilities
P2.17
Vending machine power savings
9
Multiple Facilities
P2.18
Bi-level lighting in stairwells
7
TOTAL
22
Projected Emissions
Reduction (mTCO2e)
911
These emissions reduction estimates are modeled off of the 2009 baseline year. In the emissions projections shown in Figure 4,6
and 8, the annual emissions reductions shift slightly over time due to changes in emissions factors and campus growth.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
2009 Baseline Emissions
2018 Emissions with Phase 1 Measures
2018 Emissions with Phase 1&2 Measures
5000
Projected Emissions (MTCO2e)
4500
4000
3500
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
Rogers
Complex
Othmer Hall
Dibner Library Wunsch Hall
Figure 10: Phase 1 & 2 Emissions Reductions Summary by Building
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Metrotech
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Scope 1 emissions (NG)
Scope 3 emissions (non-bldg)
Phase 1&2 Reductions
18,000
Scope 2 emissions (elec)
Phase 1 Reductions
PlaNYC Target
GHG emissions (MTCO2e)
16,000
ACUPCC Climate
Neutral Target
14,000
5yr Capital Plan & Phase 2 Measures
Completed
Phase 1 complete
12,000
Science &
Engineering Bldg
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2007 2009 2011 2013 2015 2017 2019 2021 2023 2025 2027 2029
Figure 31: Phase 2: NYU-Poly GHG Emission Projections under (1) Business-as-Usual; (2) with Phase 1 Emissions Reductions; (3) with Phase
1 and 2 emissions reductions. The red line shows the projected emissions with full implementation of Phase 1 emission reduction
measures, completed by 2014. The purple line shows the projected emissions with full implementation of Phase 1 and 2 emission
reduction measures, completed by 2017. The dotted black line shows the PlaNYC 30% reduction in carbon emissions intensity target,
starting in the year 2018. The full implementation of Phase 1 and 2 measures will be able to reach the PlaNYC target by the 2018
deadline.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
Phase 3 Emission Reduction Measures
Big and Bold Emission Reduction Strategies and Campus Sustainability Measures
Phase 3 emissions reductions focused on what it would take to get truly deep reductions in GHG emissions
and be able to achieve climate neutrality as defined by the ACUPCC. The following is a summary of Poly’s
aspirations to achieving climate neutrality. There are no definite commitments to meet these measures at
this time, but rather concepts which are being explored. The feasibility of incorporating these strategies is
based on economics and imminent need.
4.1.11.
Rogers Complex Measures
Potential measures at the Rogers Complex could include the following measures.
P3.1
Rogers Hall Labs – Exhaust Air Energy Recovery
For additional savings in the new and renovated lab spaces in Rogers Hall, a sensible only heat exchanger is
recommended. This would isolate the exhaust air stream from the makeup air stream which is desirable for
contaminated exhaust. Heating and cooling energy savings from this measure will be slightly offset by the
increase in fan power required to move air through the heat exchanger. Overall, this measure is projected to
reduce energy use by 909,719 kWh, with an associated emission reduction of 154 mTCO2e.
The estimated cost for this measure is $300,000 with a payback of approximately 10 years. Payback could
be shorter for this measure if ventilation is increased due to code requirements.
P3.2
Rogers Hall – Central HVAC System Upgrade
NYU-Poly is considering the installation of a central HVAC system to replace the current mix of 188 window
AC units, water cooled units, and city water cooled units that are mostly at the end of their useful lives.
Replacement options include central electric chillers, modular electric chillers, expanded gas fired absorption
chiller capacity, or self-contained AC units. A separate master plan study of the MEP systems has been
recommended to evaluate the options. As a preliminary estimate, Steven Winter & Associates calculated the
potential energy savings of installing self-contained AC units to be 265,000 kWh annually, with emissions
reduced by 83 mTCO2e. Self-contained AC units are a good choice because they are modular and can be
installed on an ongoing basis as the building is being renovated.
P3.3
Rogers Complex - Upgrade Cooling Towers with VFDs
The existing building has several small cooling towers with on/off controls for the constant speed fans. If the
central HVAC system will be upgraded and a large central cooling tower installed, it would be advantageous
to install variable frequency drives (VFDs) on the fans. This measure is projected to reduce cooling energy
consumption by an additional 25,000 kWh and emissions by 8 mTCO2e.
P3.4
Rogers Hall - Window Replacement
Rogers Hall currently uses operable single pane windows in steel frames that are in poor condition. New
windows should be installed that minimize water infiltration, improve building appearance, and improve
occupant comfort. Approximately 700 4’x8’ windows are in need of replacement. The existing single pane
windows have an overall heat transfer coefficient of approximately U = 1.0. Thermally broken double pane
insulated units should have an overall heat transfer coefficient of approximately U = 0.5 or better. Energy
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
savings from new windows will primarily be in the winter season. If all windows were replaced, energy use
could be reduced by as much as 380,992 kWh annually, with emissions dropping by 88 mTCO2e.
P3.5
Rogers Hall - Whole Building Lighting Retrofit
A building wide lighting retrofit of Rogers Hall could result in significant energy savings. SWA found that many
of the space in Rogers Hall are over lit and lighting is misplaced and poorly utilized. Lowering the lighting
power density from the current 1.6 W/sf to 1.2 W/sf (recommended under ASHRAE 90.1.2007) is easily
achievable without affecting occupant comfort or having to rely on expensive lighting technologies. More
aggressive measures such as installing LED technology, occupancy sensors and daylight sensors could
further reduce lighting energy use. Refer to the Lighting Best Practices section for more information.
Projected energy savings for this measure are 1,375,146 kWh, with emissions projected to fall by 432
mTCO2e as a result.
P3.6
Rogers Hall - Replace Kitchen DHW Boilers with Solar DHW System
Currently, domestic hot water for the Rogers Hall Kitchen is provided by an atmospheric boiler. These boilers
tend to have low up-front costs, but also low efficiency. Replacing this boiler with a more efficient (one) will
reduce energy costs. To aggressively reduce emissions to meet climate commitments it is recommended that
NYU-Poly consider the feasibility of a Solar DWH system. Anticipated savings for this kind of replacement are
expected to be 990,367 kWh annually, with emissions being reduced by 178 mTCO2e. Alternatively a less
aggressive but less capital cost intensive strategy would be to purchase high efficiency condensing boilers.
Also note potential synergies here with the Microgrid (measure P3.10), and the potential to use waste heat
recovery to supply hot water.
4.1.12.
P3.7
Othmer Hall Measures
Othmer Hall - Active Occupant Energy Management
Othmer Hall has the second-highest energy density of all the buildings on campus. Occupant behavior may
play a large role in this. Currently, electricity in Othmer is master-metered: students are not directly billed for
the amount of electricity they use in their rooms. In master metered situations, it is common for tenants to
perceive their electricity as “free” or to not even be fully aware of their electricity use. That mentality
combined with the extensive use of electronics such as laptops, iPads and smartphones can lead to
significant energy costs.
Several approaches to reducing occupant electric usage are described below and they should be considered
as part of future campus upgrades.
(a) Raising occupant awareness regarding their energy use. Signs in the common areas on each floor
could be posted with tips for saving energy within their rooms. These signs would serve as constant
subtle reminders to the students that they are using energy and that they probably could be using
less. Incoming residents could be given an energy saving tips brochure in their orientation materials.
Public display of real-time electric usage of the building from interval electric metering has also been
shown to influence occupant energy use using energy dashboards in lobbies and common areas.
(b) Provide “smart strip” power strips for dorm rooms. Plug loads such as printers, desk lamps, and
computer monitors can be controlled by individual “smart strip” power strips that turn OFF noncritical loads to save energy. Smart strip control technologies include programmable timers,
occupancy sensor-based systems, and a technology based on equipment signature and usage
analysis.
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(c) Active management of room loads by key cards. A state-of-the-art approach used by hotels is a key
card energy management system. A stand-alone key card system requires an occupant to insert a
key into a master switch to turn on the electricity in the room. The same key is usually used as the
door key, so people have to take it with them when they leave, which then turns off the electricity in
the room. Key card systems also have the capability to interface with fan coil thermostats to put the
units into a setback mode when the keys are removed and occupants leave. Key card systems are
considered emerging technologies by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy and may
not be a cost effective retrofit.
Implementation of Occupant Management Practices is projected to be able to save up to 165,331 kWh, with
emissions reduced by 63 mTCO2e as a result.
P3.8
Othmer Hall - Replace Atmospheric boiler with Solar DHW System
To aggressively reduce emissions to meet climate commitments, it is recommended that NYU-Poly consider
the feasibility of a Solar DWH system, similar to the one proposed for Rogers Hall to replace the six
atmospheric boilers that currently operate. Projected energy savings for this measure is 708,224 kWh, with
emissions being reduced by 127 mTCO2e.
4.1.13.
P3.9
Science & Engineering Building - New Construction
Science & Engineering Building– High Performance Design
As part of the long-term vision of the Polytechnic Institute of NYU’s i2e Campus Transformation, the site
currently occupied by the Jacobs Administration and Civil Engineering buildings will be demolished and
redeveloped into the Science & Engineering building. The vision for this development is in two sections. The
lower section will be designated for academics and research (laboratory spaces, classrooms, etc.), with a
possible residential tower above that for student housing, and retail space on the ground floor. It will be a
fully mixed use-building, prominently located on a high-volume corner of downtown Brooklyn with direct
access to outside street and pedestrian traffic. It is intended to showcase the work of an elite engineering
school and incorporate various, high-visibility envelope and building system technologies on its facade. This
bold vision for the site is also a tremendous opportunity to reduce future energy usage and GHG emissions
savings at a cost that would be much lower than having to renovate an existing building to achieve similar
savings.
The following descriptions include various high performance design features, concepts and technologies
broken apart by building system. These examples and other like them should be considered and
incorporated as early as possible in the design phase to ensure the most successful implementation of high
performance design as possible. The ability for the building to adapt to changing programmatic needs over
time has been early on identified as an important aspect to incorporate into its design. Many of the
recommendations below were selected with this in mind.
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Figure 12: A possible rendering of what the Science & Engineering building could look like, situated at the
corner of the campus.
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HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDING ENVELOPE TECHNOLOGIES
A high performance building envelope design offers opportunities to significantly reduce HVAC energy use,
can improve indoor thermal comfort, increase daylighting, improve aesthetics, and enhance occupant
experience. Some technologies to consider are:
o
Double Skin Façade – A double skin façade is a system consisting of two glass skins that forms an
intermediate cavity between the building and the outside. During the heating season, the solar gain
within the cavity can be circulated to the occupied space to offset heating requirements. During the
cooling season, the double skin façade works as a screen for solar heat gain, and with a correct
design, warm air inside the cavity can be ventilated out, carrying additional heat with it. The double
skin façade also allows for an effective way to naturally ventilate the space, and for night time
ventilation to pre-cool the building. A double skin façade system that is ideal for both heating and
cooling conditions is possible but needs to be designed carefully to function as intended.
o
High Performance Glazing – This includes technologies such as: (1) high-R value windows (triple
pane); (2) spectrally selective window films that reduce solar heat gain; (3) electrochromic glass,
where electrical energy is used to transition between clear and darkened states. Darkened glass
transmits less light and reduces heat gain when darkened, especially in dual-pane windows.
o
Phase-Change Materials Enhanced
Building Envelope – Phase change
materials can be installed behind walls,
ceilings, around ducts, and integrated
into the roofing of buildings. These biobased materials are designed to change
phase at very precisely specified
temperature ranges and serve as highly
effective thermal energy storage. They
absorb heat from internal gains during
the day and releasing this heat during
unoccupied hours, thus greatly reducing
the load on HVAC the system and saving
significant energy.
o
\
Cool Roof - The majority of solar heat
gains come through a roof. Cool roofs
are
highly
reflective
roof
that
significantly reduce the amount of solar
radiation absorbed and reduces airFigure 13: phase change material applied to drop-ceiling
conditioning costs. They also have
a high emissivity (greater than 80%) which readily reflects any absorbed heat back into the
atmosphere. This is a low-cost energy efficiency feature that can be applied to roofs, as well as any
rooftop ducting or rooftop cooling units.
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HIGH PERFORMANCE HVAC SYSTEMS & TECHNOLOGIES
There are a variety of different heating, cooling and ventilation systems that could be used to very effectively
and efficiently condition the space within the building. Because the building will have a variety of different
space uses (laboratory, office, classroom, dormitory), it should be expected that the loads from these zones
will be significantly different. A system should be chosen that can accommodate all these types of zones.
Some example technologies here include:
o
Chilled Beam Systems – In the system, chilled water is piped through fin tubes located on the ceiling
which drives a convection cycle where warm air rise to ceiling, is cooled by the chilled beam and then
falls back to the floor, saving fan energy by relying on natural convection cycles instead. These
systems are gaining popularity in lab spaces, where it allows cooling loads and ventilation loads to be
completely separated.
o
Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) – DOAS allow you to separate ventilation loads from cooling
and heating loads and work well with other technologies such as chilled beams, heat energy recovery
systems and IEQ-based ventilation systems. DOAS can be a particularly cost effective strategy for
laboratory spaces that have heightened and specific ventilation requirements.
o
IEQ-Based Ventilation and Lab Management – This technology involves reconsidering the appropriate
levels of air changes per hour (ACH) in the \laboratory environment. In lieu of maintaining one
recommended flow rate 24/7, new, sophisticated monitoring systems can operate laboratories under
reduced ACH for more than 90% of the time, constantly monitoring the lab air, and, in case of
detecting an IEQ incident; automatically increase the ACH to purge contaminated air. These systems
can easily be applied to flexible areas in the laboratory where the need might vary from dry to wet
environments
o
Desiccant Cooling Technologies – Desiccant cooling systems work well in hot humid climates where
dehumidification of supply air is desirable. Desiccant systems work in conjunction with conventional
air conditioning systems to dehumidify the air, improving indoor thermal comfort, and reducing
cooling costs.
o
District Heating and Cooling - Assuming waste heat recovery will be available from the Microgrid
project, cooling loads can be supplied by absorption chillers should be, and heating loads can be
supplied by heating hot water, both using waste heat recovery from the onsite generation plant.
o
Solar Domestic Hot Water System – If waste heat recovery from the Microgrid is not sufficient to
meet DHW needs, a rooftop Solar DWH system should be considered.
For other laboratory specific HVAC design practices see measure P1.1 (Labs21 Best Practices).
High Performance Lighting & Plug Load Management
Plug loads” are all of the computers, printers, task lights, and other equipment plugged into the outlets. This
is an “unregulated” load that building energy codes do not control, and which represent a growing portion of
building energy use. Both high performance lighting design and plug loads management offers opportunities
to greatly reduce energy use, particularly in buildings where HVAC loads are already being minimized. See
measure P1.9 (Lighting Best Practices and Plug Loads Best Practices) for specific recommendations on
reducing these loads.
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BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEMS & ONGOING PERFORMANCE MONITORING
New building automation systems provide a foundation for a number of synergistic energy efficiency
opportunities, particularly for a high performance building with dynamic controls, multiple space uses, and
multiple interacting systems. BAS allows for ongoing commissioning, sequence changes and system
optimization throughout the operation of the building to ensure optimal performance. Complementing a
modern BAS, the following technology applications would be highly opportunistic:
o
o
o
o
Submetering – Submetering of heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, plug loads, process loads is
necessary to allow for accurate tracking of energy consumption, cost allocation of energy, and the
prioritization of system improvements and controls optimization strategies.
Fault Detection and Diagnostic Systems - Fault diagnostics is the next layer of control aimed at
approaching net zero energy consumption for buildings. While the building automation system is
capable of controlling equipment, data display, alarming and trending, it is not capable of detailed
fault detection and troubleshooting. Fault detection and diagnostics software is capable of
conducting custom detailed analysis on the data handled by the building automation system in order
\
to detect opportunities for optimization and improvements
Ongoing Commissioning - Ongoing commissioning of the building systems is the primary intent of the
detection system. While commissioning and re-commissioning of systems is effective for
instantaneous verification of correct system operation, fault detection systems continue to watch
building systems long after start up and initial testing is complete. The combination of ongoing
monitoring and custom analytics provides a platform for continued system optimization and a realtime view of the buildings energy consumption.
Occupant Energy Dashboards - The energy dashboard gives the user and building occupants the
opportunity to engage building systems and view in real time how conservation measures such as
high efficiency lighting and HVAC systems save energy. These kinds of technologies begin to address
the occupant behavioral side of energy management, and offers energy savings as well as
educational opportunities for students and faculty.
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Figure 14: SkySpark – a Web-based Fault Detection and Diagnostics Systems Software integrated with the Building
Automation System
It is estimated that a building thoughtfully designed to incorporate these kinds of high performance
technologies and features will be able to achieve an overall energy use intensity of 26.6 kWh/sf. This
represents a 40% reduction as compared to buildings with similar space types and square footage. The
building assumptions for this estimate were: 160,000 gross SF, with 35% designated as laboratory space
and 65% as classroom/office space. Savings from this kind of high performance design would be in the
order of 5,300,000 kWh with an associated emissions reduction of approximately 1,200 mTCO2e.
4.1.14.
Campus-Wide
Phase 3 measures that are associated with the campus as a whole and not any one building include:
P3.10
Campus On-Site Generation and Microgrid Management
The NYU-Poly Microgrid Project proposes to utilize a highly efficient cogeneration system to produce
electricity and thermal energy (hot water or steam, chilled water, and domestic hot water).23 This energy will
replace electricity that would have come from the utility (Hess) and thermal energy produced using the
University’s boilers. The net emissions produced by the Microgrid project are expected to be substantially
below those associated with the current grid and existing thermal energy system configuration. The net
emissions reduction is a result of two factors:

23
The gas turbine electric generation that is proposed for this project will potentially have a lower
CO2- electricity emissions factor (i.e. cleaner electricity generation) than grid generation. In the
case of NYU-Poly, which relies on the same grid mix of electricity as the rest of New York City,
the city-wide grid emissions factor is very low because of a heavy reliance on hydroelectricity.
The preliminary estimate on the potential capacity of the MicroGrid project, and the use of waste heat recovery was provided
from Pareto Energy, Ltd. The subsequent calculation of net carbon emissions based on this estimate was performed by the
Cadmus Group, Inc.
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NYU-Poly Sustainability & Climate Action Plan
For this reason the preliminary estimate of net emissions from electricity generation only are
higher for the Microgrid based generation. A more detailed study is necessary to evaluate
exactly what electricity would be offset by the Microgrid. For example if the Microgrid were
designed to offset peak-demand electricity while still relying on the grid for base loads, it is
possible that there would be a net savings.

The byproduct of natural gas combustion-driven electricity generation is a large amount of
waste heat. The Microgrid project intends to capture and use this waste heat that would
otherwise be unavailable from the grid. This waste heat will supply campus wide heating,
cooling (absorption chillers require heat as part of its refrigeration cycle), domestic hot water
heating, and heating for process loads such as steam generation for laboratories. It is this
component of the Microgrid system that could potentially result in very large savings.
The following table quantifies the various energy and heat generating services that the Microgrid will provide
for the campus, and shows net emission reductions from the project. A negative number for net savings
implies an increase in emissions.
Table 6: Summary of Net Carbon Emissions after Implementation of the Proposed Microgrid Project
Net Grid
Electricity Savings
Net Carbon
Emissions Savings
% Reduction in
Campus Wide
GHG Emissions
On Site Electricity Generation
9,460,800
-1009
-10.7%
Waste Heat Recovery for Cooling
2,503,159
451
4.8%
Waste Heat Recovery for Heating
3,655,581
658
7.0%
Waste Heat Recovery for DHW and
Process Loads
1,982,300
357
3.8%
TOTAL SAVINGS
17,601,840
457
4.9%
P3.11
Solar Photovoltaic Rooftop Systems
To aggressively reduce emissions to meet ACUPCC climate commitments another measure to consider is the
installation of solar PV systems on all available rooftop space across the campus. Solar PV systems require a
significant upfront investment, however the lifetime of solar panels is long and the ongoing maintenance is
relatively minimal. Self-generation of electricity also protects the campus against escalating electricity prices
from grid-purchased electricity in the future. Conservative estimates of available rooftop space show that
there is sufficient space for up to 650 kW of solar capacity (after the construction of the Science &
Engineering building). If installed, this would generate 805,219 kWh annually and result in an annual
emissions reduction of 306 mTCO2e.
4.1.15.
Combined Phase 3 summary
The full implementation of all Phase 3 measures would result in a reduction of 19,095,000 kWh of energy on
an annual basis and reduce emissions by 3,001 mTCO2e. This is equivalent to a 32% reduction of total
projected campus emissions by the year 2030. Combined with Phase 1 and 2 measures, this would result in
an overall reduction of 5,302 mTCO2e, equivalent to a 48% reduction from total projected 2030 emissions.
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It is unrealistic to expect that NYU-Poly will be able to implement all of these very high capital measures. The
purpose of the Phase 3 measures section is to present a list of possible measures which can be compared
and evaluated against one another on the basis of their merits. A summary of the measures discussed in this
section is shown in Table . The next step in this process is to identify the measures that have the greatest
likelihood of being implemented and begin to explore opportunities for funding.
Table 7: Phase 3 Emission Reduction Measures Summary 24
Facilities Affected
Measure
Description
Rogers Hall
P3.1
Exhaust Air Energy Recovery
154
Rogers Hall
P3.2
Central Cooling System Upgrade
83
Rogers Complex
P3.3
Upgrade Cooling Towers with VFD Fans
8
Rogers Hall
P3.4
Windows Replacement
88
Rogers Hall
P3.5
Whole Building Lighting Retrofit
432
Rogers Hall
P3.6
Replace Kitchen DHW Boilers with Solar DHW
178
Othmer Hall
P3.7
Active Occupant Energy Management
63
Othmer Hall
P3.8
Replace DHW Boilers with Solar DHW
127
Science &
Engineering
Campus-Wide
P3.9
1188
P3.12
High Performance Design of Science &
Engineering Building
On-Site Generation and Microgrid System
Campus-Wide
P3.13
On-Site Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic System
306
TOTAL
24
Projected Emissions
Reduction (MTCO2e)
457
3,001
These emissions reduction estimates are modeled off of the 2009 baseline year. In the emissions projections shown in Figure
4,6 and 8, the annual emissions reductions shift slightly over time due to changes in emissions factors and campus growth.
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2009 Baseline Emissions
Phase 1&2 Reductions
Phase 1 Reductions
Phase 1,2 &3 Reductions
Projected Net Emissions (MTCO2e)
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
-1000
-2000
Figure 15: Phase 3 Emission Reduction Measures Summary by Building/Major Capital Improvements
Non-Building Related (Scope 3) GHG Emission Reduction Measures
The 2009 GHG inventory indicated that the majority of campus GHG emissions were related to buildings and
building operations (Scope 1 and 2 emissions). Non-Building Scope 3 emissions are not required to be
addressed by the PlaNYC Mayoral Challenge, and only a select portion of Scope 3 emissions are required to
be addressed for the ACUPCC Climate Action Plan. These selected Scope 3 emissions (student and faculty
commuting, directly financed air travel) represent only 14% of total emissions. It is for these reasons that the
emission reduction measures primarily focused on building related measures. However looking at GHG
emissions from a holistic perspective is good practice, and can lead to unexpected opportunities as well as
greater student and faculty engagement. Select non-building related GHG emission reduction measures are
discussed below.
4.1.16.
Bicycle Network, Storage and Shower Facilities
Total transportation emissions from NYU-Poly student, faculty and staff commuting were 883 MTCO2e in
2009, 11% of total campus emissions. This represents a percentage of emissions that is significantly lower
than what is typical across US university campuses, and is primarily due to the location of NYU-Poly. In the
heart of downtown Brooklyn, NYHU Poly is within walking distance of multiple subway lines, bus lines, and in
proximity to the LIRR Atlantic terminal. The result of this is that approximately 90% of students, faculty and
staff use public transit to commute to campus. Given this baseline, measures focused on increasing public
transit ridership would result in minimal emissions reductions. Alternatively, it is proposed that NYU-Poly
focus on increasing bicycle ridership and other forms of non-motorized transport. Bicycle ridership in NYC
has grown substantially in the past five years, and is a very viable option in the highly dense urban
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environment of downtown Brooklyn. In order to encourage this form of transportation, the following
strategies are recommended:
- Secure short term bicycle storage for visitors and occupants (e.g. exterior bicycle racks near
entryways)
- Secure long-term bicycle storage for students, faculty and staff (e.g. interior bicycle storage rooms
with controlled access)
- On-site showers with changing facilities accessible to students, faculty and staff Dedicated bicycle
lanes that extend throughout the campus with no barriers (e.g., fences) , and that link up with a
larger bicycle network in the neighborhood
- Establish a bicycle maintenance program and/or route assistance program that can be managed by
students and faculty. It should include services such as: coupons for yearly bicycle tune-ups; an onsite or nearby bicycle repair shop with repair training instruction; maps identifying bicycle routes to
the project site, posted on the property in a location that is easily accessible to employees and
customers.
It is estimated that if bicycle ridership increased to 7% for the total campus population, 40 mTCO2e would be
saved annually. This measure is built into the Phase 2 emissions projections in Figure 8.
4.1.17.
Carbon Offsets
Assuming the full implementation of all Phase 1, 2 &3 reduction measures, the anticipated campus-wide
GHG emissions by 2029 would be 4,880 mTCO2e, a 48% reduction from the business-as-usual projections.
While this represents a tremendous emissions savings, significantly more emissions would need to be
reduced to reach climate neutrality, as per ACUPCC. If NYU-Poly does wish to pursue this goal, the most
feasible way to reach climate neutrality after the implementation of all Phase 1, 2 and 3 measures would be
through some type of carbon offset purchase. A carbon offset program could be established on campus that
could accept open donations, and could be geared to offset particular types of campus carbon emissions
(e.g. electricity, commuting, air travel), or fund particular GHG emission reduction projects (e.g. rainforest
preservation). Some example carbon offset programs include:
- Green Power (e.g. Renewable Energy Certificates, Utility Green Pricing Programs)
- Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction Projects
- Reforestation & Avoided Deforestation Projects
A few widely recognized national and internationally recognized verification standards for these types of
projects include: American Carbon Registry, Climate Action Reserve, Climate, Gold Standard, Social Carbon,
Verified Carbon Standard. Any purchased carbon offsets should be verified by one of these standards.
As an example, in order to net out the remaining 4,880 mTCO2e that would remain after full implementation
of all campus reduction measures, the campus would have to purchase 17,296 MWh of renewable energy
certificates or sponsor the planting of 64,845 trees in the rainforest25 (~162 acres) on an annual basis. The
purchase of these carbon offsets is projected in the Phase 3 emissions trajectory in Figure 8.
25
http://www.carbonify.com/carbon-calculator.htm
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Scope 1 emissions (NG)
Scope 3 emissions (non-bldg)
Phase 1&2 Reductions
18,000
PlaNYC Target
16,000
GHG emissions (MTCO2e)
Scope 2 emissions (elec)
Phase 1 Reductions
Phase 1,2&3 Reductions
Science &
Engineering Bldg
14,000
Phase 1 Measures
Implemented
12,000
Phase 2 Measures
Implemented
ACUPCC Climate
Neutral Target
Phase 3 Measures
Timeframe
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2007 2009 2011 2013 2015 2017 2019 2021 2023 2025 2027 2029
Figure 16: Phase 3: NYU-Poly GHG Emission Projections under (1) Business-as-Usual; (2) with Phase 1 Emissions Reductions; (3) with Phase 1 and 2 reductions; (4) Phase
1,2 & 3 reduction measures. The dotted black line shows the PlaNYC 30% reduction in carbon emissions intensity target, starting in the year 2018. This target is
achieved by the implementation of Phase 1 and2 measures. The green line shows the projected emissions with full implementation of Phase 1, 2,&3 measures,
which would achieve a 48% reduction of GHG emissions by the Year 2029 as compared to the business-as-usual trajectory. The dotted green line from the Year 2029
to 2030 represents the additional GHG emission savings that would result from the purchase of carbon offsets in order to achieve climate neutrality in 2030.
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Plans to track and Report Emissions
The above efforts will be implemented and continue to be refined as future versions of the
greenhouse gas inventory unfold in order to account for and mitigate pollution sources. NYU-Poly will
continue to track the emissions types outlined the baseline inventory and update the inventory on a
regular basis as required by both the ACUPCC and PlaNYC Mayoral Challenge requirements, and will
explore additional emissions types and sources to evaluate in order to capture the most accurate
representation of the campus emissions footprint.
In the event a new emissions source is found to increase NYU-Poly’s total metric tons of greenhouse
gas emissions, additional reduction measures will be employed and the University will continue to
pursue the ACUPCC climate neutrality goal. A new climate action plan will be generated based off of
update inventories on a regular basis to ensure that NYU-Poly is progressing in line with the goals
outlined in this original Climate Action Plan, is on track to reach the PlaNYC Mayoral Challenge target,
and is reaching for the ACUPCC climate neutrality goal.
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