New York Businesses Going Green, Push for Greener Buildings

Summary: Green projects are now “In” among New York skyscrapers after realizing that it is losing money due to high costs and high-maintenance fees.

By going green, these wind-defying structures can acquire new tenants and even save more money in the process. Years ago, owners considered such renovations as huge gambles on their part.

 With energy efficiency in mind, skyscrapers in New York and other iconic buildings in the country are now catching up with other modern structures as more owners are realizing the value environmental improvements such as insulating windows.

One of the most popular buildings to adopt this innovative concept is the Empire State Building, which for over 78-years, stood as one of the most desirable office building to work. But in recent years, it has lost its shine and tenants are now shifting to a more environment friendly structures.

To catch up with the trend, the Empire State has shelled out some $120 million to improve its space and adopt the new concept.

A few years ago, owners think that it will only be a huge gamble and a huge financial lost will be required. But retrofitting a building, to a more environmental sensitive structure, begun to payoff for the building owners as top companies in the country try to look for a more efficient office space, which business experts believes can translate into higher profits, higher leasing and occupancy rates.

Most common among these types of renovations include high-tech water heating systems, porous walls, and use recycle-friendly materials for the floorings and walls.

Upon completion, a renovated skyscraper can cut electricity cost by 80 percent, save some 24 million gallons of waters, and increase profit by ten folds.