Objective

To determine if the Office of General Services (OGS) has developed targets and plans to effectively meet its contributions toward Executive Order 88 (EO 88) and complied with EO 88 Guidelines. The audit covered the period from April 1, 2014 through May 13, 2019.

About the Program

EO 88, issued on December 28, 2012, is the centerpiece of BuildSmart NY, the State’s program for pursuing energy efficiency in State government buildings while advancing economic growth, environmental protection, and energy security. EO 88 is intended to accomplish broader State policy goals, such as reducing State government’s utility expenses, fostering investment in smart buildings, protecting the environment and public health by reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, and supporting economic growth by creating green jobs and stimulating the marketplace for clean energy and energy-efficient products and services. EO 88 mandated a 20 percent collective improvement in the energy performance of all covered agencies and authorities (collectively referred to as Affected State Entities) by April 1, 2020.

Key Finding

Generally, OGS has developed targets and plans to contribute toward EO 88 and complied with the Guidelines. However, OGS relied on the Sheridan Avenue Project to provide the majority of its energy savings. This project has met criticism from environmental and community advocates because of health concerns related to the burning of natural gas, and its implementation is currently in doubt. Should the project fail to move forward, it is unlikely that OGS will meet its goal of reducing energy usage by 20 percent.

Key Recommendations

• Develop a contingency plan to replace the Sheridan Avenue Project.

• Continue implementing capital projects that reduce energy usage.

• Continue developing energy-saving capital projects to contribute toward the collective 20 percent energy reduction of Affected State Entities.