Manhattan Borough President supports Passive House section of R408 in the NYStretch Energy Code

New York City, June 28, 2019

I am writing to you in support of the New York Passive House application and the expedited approval of the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) as a calculation software tool and alternative compliance path for inclusion into the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code (NYSECCC). It is also critical that the proposed Passive House section of R408 in the NYStretch Energy Code become adopted into any jurisdiction in New York State as an alternative compliance path, into the New York State Energy Code (NYSEC), and into the New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC).

In an era where this is a failure of the federal government to acknowledge and lead on tackling climate change, it becomes imperative for cities and states to take action to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions, reduce carbon emissions, invest in renewable energy, and educate the public. And in New York City, building emissions represent approximately 70 percent of total emissions, which is simply unacceptable.

My office has long been a supporter of Passive House and environmental practices that reduce energy consumption. Please see the attached Manhattan Borough Board Resolution in support of the International Passive House Standard for New York City, which I signed in recognition of Earth Day in 2016, and which was supported by all 12 Manhattan Community Boards.

The approval of PHPP as an officially approved calculation software tool option in the State of New York would help make real progress toward New York City’s goal of achieving greenhouse gas reductions of 80 percent by the year 2050, and build a greener and more sustainable future for all.

 

Gale A. Brewer, Manhattan Borough President