Rebate Opportunities and Energy Efficiency Projects
At Aurora Energy Advisors, we are constantly focused on helping our clients reduce utility and energy-related expenses while meeting compliance requirements and advancing sustainability goals. As part of that commitment, we collaborate with trusted, best-in-class firms to deliver meaningful opportunities, including rebate management for energy efficiency projects and contractor services to execute upgrades and repairs.
If you are interested in exploring or are already planning an improvement project, whether driven by LL97 compliance, LL87 retro-commissioning requirements, straightforward ROI through utility savings, or all of the above, please contact your Aurora representative for more information. Not only can we bring qualified vendors to the table, but we can also help secure significant rebates to minimize upfront costs and make a project financially feasible. However, it is critical to involve us before work begins to avoid compromising the rebate approval process.
The year 2025 serves as a stark reminder of how critical it is to complete building improvements that reduce energy consumption — not just to meet your emissions limit, but to stay below it, just in case. LL97 carbon emissions calculations are not weather-adjusted, meaning a hot summer or cold winter can result in higher emissions due to increased cooling and heating usage. 2025 was a prime example, with freezing temperatures at both the beginning and end of the year, along with a warmer-than-average summer that peaked at 100 degrees.
Rebate Opportunities
To reiterate, rebates through New York State or the utilities typically need to be applied for before the work commences, otherwise you risk it being denied or reduced. Dollar amounts are often tied to the level of energy efficiency improvement deemed achievable, so initial site visits and studies may be required to determine baselines.
In 2026, one of the new focuses of incentive programs in Con Ed and National Grid territories (this includes all 5 boroughs) is envelope improvements like roof insulation and window replacements. These rebates are available to many types of customers, including multifamily and commercial buildings. Though the rebates may be around beyond 2026, rates are unknown for future years and may change depending on funding availability.
Roof insulation:
The rebate is available only for the insulation component, not replacement of the roof membrane or other repair work, ie. simply adding insulation in an attic or adding/replacing insulation as part of a larger roofing project.
The dollar value is dependent on the existing envelope and how the building is heated (gas, steam, etc).
The highest rebate category is uninsulated roofs in gas buildings.
Window Replacements:
Rebates typically cover 5–15% of total project cost.
Projects of any size are eligible, though larger projects yield stronger financial impact.
Other Energy Efficiency Projects
Rebate or not, we can still help. In today’s evolving landscape of energy laws and compliance requirements, there are many reasons to pursue energy efficiency improvements, including LL87 retro-commissioning, LL97 decarbonization, utility cost reductions, and proactive building maintenance. Whatever the project, we likely have a solution.
Over the past year, we have facilitated dozens of LL87 audits for our clients. As you begin implementing retro-commissioning measures, we encourage you to involve Aurora early in the process. If your property is approaching an LL87 compliance year and you have not yet engaged an engineer, we can assist, including planning for early compliance up to four years in advance.
Next Steps
Energy compliance and efficiency planning are no longer optional considerations; they are essential components of sound asset management. Aurora Energy Advisors is here to help you navigate the process, identify opportunities, and execute improvements strategically and cost-effectively. We encourage you to reach out before beginning any project so we can ensure you maximize available incentives and position your property for long-term success.
Market Analysis
Natural Gas
The NYMEX settlement for March closed at $2.969 per MMBtu, a sharp decline from January’s elevated levels as temperatures moderated across much of the country. Although cold weather lingered in some regions, steady production and improving forecasts eased the supply concerns that fueled January’s spike. As a result, the prompt month retraced significantly, reflecting a market recalibrating toward more balanced fundamentals. It will be important to monitor escalating tensions involving Iran and their potential impact on global oil and gas markets.
Electricity
NYISO Zone J day-ahead power prices softened in February following January’s volatility, as milder temperatures reduced peak demand across New York City. Although brief cold snaps caused temporary spikes, overall load declined and falling natural gas prices eased pressure on electricity costs. By mid-February, daily averages returned to the $0.05–$0.10 per kWh range after more than two weeks above $0.20. With system conditions stable, pricing appears to be settling back toward seasonal norms.
Crude Oil
Crude oil futures traded in the low- to mid-$60s per barrel through February following January’s late-month rally. Prices remained supported by ongoing geopolitical tensions and continued OPEC+ supply discipline, though steady U.S. production limited upside momentum. Adding to the constructive backdrop, Asian crude imports surged to strong levels, with shifting trade flows reshaping the global supplier mix. Looking forward, escalating tensions involving Iran will be an important risk factor for oil and gas markets, especially as concerns grow over potential disruptions to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global crude exports transit.
💡 Mitchell’s Tip: Contact Aurora for guidance on local laws. Compliance season is upon us!