Bennington

Debate Surrounding Local Law 97 Renewable Energy Credits in New York City

Mayor Mamdani is facing pressure to limit an avenue for large building owners to buy credits instead of cutting emissions.

Published

2 months ago

June 30, 2026

Randy Breland, Managing Editor

Impact of New York City's Hydropower Credits on Local Climate Law — Local Law 97 renewable energy credits

Last updated: September 1, 2026

Key points

New York City introduces renewable energy credits (RECs) for emissions compliance.
Concerns arise that RECs may undermine building upgrades required by Local Law 97.
Pending legislation aims to limit REC usage to ensure effective emissions reductions.

NewsWK — As New York City moves towards implementing renewable energy credits (RECs) next month, local building owners, including those in Bennington and surrounding areas, may face new dynamics in meeting emissions reduction goals under Local Law 97. This law mandates significant reductions in emissions for large buildings, and the introduction of RECs could alter how compliance is achieved.

According to a report first published by New York Focus, the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) is now delivering hydropower from Canada to New York City, generating RECs that local entities can purchase. These credits may significantly lower costs for building owners who would otherwise face penalties for non-compliance with emissions standards.

NYC Local Law 97 Compliance and Building Emissions

Climate advocates worry that the availability of RECs could lead to lax compliance with Local Law 97. Chris Halfnight, CEO of the Urban Green Council, expressed concern over the potential for RECs to replace necessary building upgrades rather than complement them. “Without a reasonable limit, RECs could become a substitute for building upgrades rather than a complement to them,” Halfnight noted.

The Urban Green Council’s calculations suggest that up to half of the excess emissions from buildings could be offset by these credits, including a staggering 85 percent of excess emissions from office properties. Local leaders, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who previously criticized the current administration’s approach to emissions compliance, have yet to take a definitive stance on limiting REC usage.

Legislative Efforts on Building Emissions Reduction

Proposed Renewable Energy Credits Emissions Cap

A bill currently pending in the City Council aims to cap the emissions that can be offset by RECs at 10 percent of a building’s total emissions from electricity use. Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa, the bill’s sponsor, emphasized the need to ensure that the benefits of Local Law 97 reach all city residents, particularly those in marginalized communities affected by climate change.

“Climate change is already affecting us,” De La Rosa stated, referencing recent environmental impacts that have disproportionately affected communities of color. The bill has garnered support from various climate organizations and aims to solidify stricter compliance measures.

Future Implications for Local Residents

For residents in Bennington and nearby areas, the outcome of these developments could influence local energy policies and costs. As more large buildings comply with emissions regulations, the potential for reduced air pollution and lower utility bills may arise. However, if RECs are utilized excessively, the intended improvements in building efficiency could stall, affecting local air quality and climate initiatives.

As the situation develops, local institutions and officials will need to monitor these changes closely, ensuring that the push for cleaner energy does not come at the expense of meaningful emissions reductions in our communities.

This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.

Based on reporting originally published by New York Focus. Read the original story.