DOB Launches New Energy Review Process in DOB NOW: Build

DOB Launches New Energy Review Process in DOB NOW: Build

By Penny Laughlin

On November 8, 2021, the Department of Buildings (DOB) launched a new integrated energy review process in its online filing portal, DOB NOW: Build.

New Energy Submission Process

DOB NOW will automatically review the filing type and provided information to determine whether an Energy Submission is required. If an Energy Submission is needed, the system will add an Energy tab and a separate “Energy Plan” required document to the filing.

Currently, the new process only applies to the following work types:

  • General Construction (GC)
  • Foundation (FO)
  • Boiler Equipment (BE)
  • Mechanical Systems (MS)
  • Plumbing (PL)

Other factors that will determine the need for an Energy Submission include Job Type, whether the scope includes Enlargement, and whether the building is Historic.

The separate Energy Submission plan review process will be conducted in parallel with the standard plan review. Only when the Energy Review is complete can the PW1 plan examiner approve the job filing.

All Building Information System (BIS) and DOB NOW filings that are in Pre-filing status or later by November 5, 2021, will follow the previous energy review process.

Energy Compliance Review Fees

In addition, DOB NOW will apply a separate review fee for NYC Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) compliance.

These new Energy Fees will be charged as follows:

  • One, two-, or three-family dwellings* – $220
  • Alterations for other than one-, two-, or three-family dwellings* – $525
  • New buildings and Alterations that change the Certificate of Occupancy (not one-, two-, or three-family dwellings) – $875

*Until further notice, DOB will not charge an Energy Code compliance review fee for alterations that do not alter the Certificate of Occupancy.

If you have any questions about these changes and how they affect your projects, please contact Metropolis Group at 212.233.6344.