110 RIVERSIDE DRIVE

Like your own co-op or condo over a certain size threshold has probably done, the two-building 110 Riverside Drive complex on West 83rd Street in Manhattan performed its required Local Law 87 energy audit last year. At the same time, its co-op board participated in a New York State program that offers monetary rebates to buildings that reduce energy use by a certain percentage.

In a previous article, we talked about how the board used that as a way to entice shareholders to invest in an energy-saving overhaul, or "retro-commissioning," of its HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and water systems. But what else did the co-op do — and what else would it like to do — to make itself more energy-efficient?

Some people see a problem. Others see an opportunity. At 110 Riverside Drive, a block-long, two-building co-op on West 83rd Street in Manhattan, the co-co board of directors found an opportunity to take steps toward "retro-commissioning" — a basic overhaul to ensure your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and water systems are operating efficiently and cost-effectively. And it can serve as a solid, practical reason that co-op and condo boards can use to convince their residents why such upgrades may take some upfront investments but will ultimately save money.