Data-Driven Assessment of NYC Building Decarbonization
Video
Team Information
Team Members
Vijay Modi, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University; and Director of the Laboratory for Sustainable Energy Solutions
Michael Waite, Associate Research Scientist, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University
Yuezi Wu, Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University
Ryan Iyer, BA Student; Research Assistant, The Earth Institute, and DSI Scholar, Columbia University
Abstract
These are preliminary results from a study whose broader goal is to look at cost-effective deep decarbonization of buildings . Amongst other sectors responsible for GHG emissions, such as transport, industry and agriculture, building-sector is a major contributor in urban settings and New city is no exception. The city envisages penalties if certain emission targets per sqft of built space are not met and in parallel the state anticipates multiple ways to incentivize cleaner electric grids that could power buildings and electrification of loads. We also have an unique opportunity to analyze the monthly electricity, fuel and steam use data of all large (25,000 sqft +) buildings from New York City.
We look at the diversity of the building stock and the energy/environment considerations of the different energy sources used to heat and power our buildings. We use these to show a preliminary method for classifying such buildings. Since the electric grid emissions also play a critical role in how one looks at electrification of heat as an option, we also model the New York State electric grid, with special attention to the NYISO zone that captures the load pocket of New York city.
Putting the larger analytics together is the future aim of this broader effort.
Contact this Team
Team Contact: Vijay Modi (use form to send email)
