NYC DCAS
At a Glance
Industry
Government/Public Administration
Project Type
Commercial Energy Efficiency
Year
2016
Location
New York, NY
Summary
As part of his work with NYC DCAS, Arman Golrokhian created a framework to identify major sources of inefficiencies at institutions within CIG’S portfolio and suggested opportunities for improvement.
Goals
Leading the country in the transition to a clean energy economy, New York City committed to reducing GHG emission 80% by 2050 (80x50). However, an analysis of citywide energy data suggests that many public agencies are well behind key interim milestones. Division of Energy Management (DEM) at the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) hosted EDF Climate Corps fellow Arman Golrokhian to explore the major causes of public agencies’ failure to internalize this goal, identify solutions for prioritizing the allocation of its resources when assisting with energy projects, as well as engage and empower energy personnel.
Solutions
After analyzing energy use and expenditure for 80 agencies across NYC, Arman identified the Cultural Institutions Group (CIG) as the agency most in need of assistance. He designed a strategic framework to identify high priority-- the largest use and expenditure on energy--institutions in CIG’s portfolio. To do so, he created a model –Baselining Energy and Environment Tool for Long Term Strategic Planning (BEETLES)--designed to integrate with NYC’s current database. After identifying major sources of inefficiency in these institutions, Arman suggested short- and long-term solutions.
Arman conducted supplementary site visits and in-person interviews with DEM’s Program Managers, selected Energy Managers across the City and O&M Personnel to identify other areas for improvements. Drawing on these interviews, he developed three guidelines for assisting energy personnel across the City: a codified list of expectations for the Energy Manager role in the City for DEM’s future hires, tips on how to identify energy saving opportunities and plans for ensuring projects are carried out. With this plan, DEM can focus its limited financial and administrative resources on specific areas, while reducing GHG emissions.
Potential Impact
Arman’s recommendations not only help CIG, but have the potential to be scaled across all other 80 public agencies within NYC. Moving forward, NYC will be one step closer to reaching energy goals, and can act as a role model for other cities looking to replicate the process.