Built Environment

The Built Environment includes all types of fuel and electricity used by residential, commercial, industrial and government buildings or facilities. The Built Environment (including streetlights) accounts for 71% of the local government greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and 53% of the community emissions.

The Village of Dobbs Ferry has played a pivotal role in Westchester County in promoting energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources for single-family homes, multi-family buildings, commercial businesses and government-owned buildings. For example, Dobbs Ferry became the first municipality in Westchester County to install a significant number of LED street lights. To date, nearly 100% of the Village’s street lights are LED.

As of November, 2023, Dobbs Ferry has been designated as a Regional and Statewide Leader in NYSERDA’s Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program, allowing the Village to become eligible for further state funding for energy efficiency projects.

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Energy Efficiency

Ensuring we are using energy as efficiently as possible in public spaces, while encouraging the same for private residences, businesses and institutions.

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Renewable Energy

Helping facilitate access to renewable energy sources for homes, businesses and public facilities.

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Building & Land Use Efficiency

Supporting efficient use of existing infrastructure, enforcing energy codes for new construction and preserving open space and environmentally valuable land areas.

Success Stories!

  • Solar PV: In 2016, arrays totaling 68 kW, were installed at the Library and the DPW buildings. In 2020, panels with a capacity of 23 kW were installed on the Embassy Center roof. By spring 2024, new panels of 26 kW will be installed at Village Hall.

  • Feasibility Study: In 2021, the Village examined all the major government-owned buildings to identify opportunities for energy saving opportunities.

  • Village Hall: As part of an Energy Performance Contract, HVAC upgrades began in 2023 and will be completed in 2024.

    The building is now 100% electric and will see a reduction of GHG emissions by an estimated 51 metric tons of CO2 per year. (Equivalent to the annual emissions from energy use in roughly 6.5 homes!)