ROCKEFELLER CENTER
NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
REVITALIZING
AN ICON
Historic value for
tomorrow’s standards
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ROCKEFELLER CENTER
NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
OVERVIEW
Defining Midtown Manhattan, Rockefeller
Center’s 12 historically significant Art Deco
buildings encompass six square city blocks
and comprise over 9 million sq. ft. (840,000
sq. m.). The complex is divided into 8 million
sq. ft. of office space and 1 million sq. ft. of
retail and public space.
Built in the midst of the Great Depression,
Rockefeller Center was founded on the
vision of the Rockefeller family. Today it is
home to Radio City Music Hall, Christie’s
Auction House, NBC Studios, over 115 retail
stores and dining venues, the world-famous
Rockefeller Ice Rink, Christmas Tree, Top of
the Rock Observation Deck and over
40,000 tenant employees.
THE CHALLENGE
The fundamentals of the Center, its location,
layout, architecture and aesthetic concept, are
irreplaceable. However, at the time Tishman
Speyer took control of Rockefeller Center in
the late 1990s, its condition no longer reached
the standards expected of a world-class
commercial destination. As a result, it struggled
to attract industry-leading tenants prepared
to pay a premium for iconic office and retail
space. Poor maintenance and operation of
aging plant equipment meant that operational
expenditure was high. The scale of the complex
and its landmark status also presented unique
challenges to redevelopment.
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THE APPROACH
Adopting a long-term holistic view, Tishman
Speyer developed a master plan for
Rockefeller Center’s redesign that addressed
every aspect of the complex, including
office and retail leasing, public space and
amenities, operating efficiencies and capital
expenditures.
Recognizing the need to preserve the
heritage of the buildings, Tishman Speyer
worked in close collaboration with the
New York City Landmarks Preservation
Commission to preserve Rockefeller
Center’s Indiana limestone architecture and
priceless art. All designs and upgrades had
to be executed without compromising the
historical features of the building.
9
MILLION
SQ.FT.
12
BUILDINGS IN
THE COMPLEX
THE OUTCOME
Tishman Speyer’s 20-year ownership and
redevelopment of Rockefeller Center has
preserved an architectural gem, and has reestablished this landmark complex as a firstclass business destination and retail center.
This has been underpinned by a master
planned sustainability approach that focuses
on energy-efficient technologies, effective
central plant operation and a revitalization
program for the Center’s world-class public
attractions.
APPROACH
CENTRAL
PLANT
OFFICE
98%
OCCUPANCY
RATE
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
SUSTAINABILITY AND EFFICIENCY APPROACH
Upon taking ownership of Rockefeller Center,
Tishman Speyer instituted an established
four-step approach to reduce energy
consumption, in particular peak energy usage.
In a city where energy shortages can be a
concern, especially in the summer months,
reducing strain on the power grid is essential.
In adopting a systematic approach, Tishman
Speyer has successfully reduced energy
consumption across the entire complex,
reducing operating expenses as a result.
This is a significant outcome in a city where
infrastructure is stretched considerably
beyond capacity. As an added benefit,
Tishman Speyer has been able to pass
savings on to its tenants.
STEP TWO: DEMAND-SIDE MEASURES
STEP ONE: ESTABLISH A BASELINE
STEP FOUR: EFFICIENT OPERATIONS
AND BEST PRACTICE
At the outset, Tishman Speyer undertook a
comprehensive audit to assess the existing
mechanical equipment and associated
operating routines. Key to the development’s
success was an in-depth understanding of
each building and its related systems. Once
the baseline had been established, Tishman
Speyer determined the best strategy to
improve operational performance.
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Energy conservation measures to reduce
cooling, heating and electricity demand
within individual buildings and the
public realm space were designed and
implemented. These were supplemented by
a tenant engagement program to further
reduce strain on New York City’s electrical
grid in the peak summer months.
75%
ENERGY REDUCTION IN
EXTERNAL LIGHTING
STEP THREE: SUPPLY-SIDE MEASURES
Tishman Speyer set out to improve the
efficiency of central plant equipment, add
new peak energy-saving technologies
and introduce renewable technologies
appropriate to the site location.
The Building Management System (BMS)
was further enhanced to increase the degree
of sophistication with which the plant could
be operated. This included the introduction
of smart sequencing, as well as fine-tuning
operational parameters.
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
Tishman Speyer continually looks to upgrade
equipment, install new technologies and find
ways to operate the plant more efficiently.
APPROACH
CENTRAL
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OFFICE
3.5
GWH IN STEAM
SAVINGS OVER
FIVE YEARS
14,000
KW PEAK SUMMER
COOLING LOAD
REDUCTION
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
CENTRAL PLANT AND COMPLEX-WIDE UPGRADES
The central plant was identified as the area
with the biggest potential for savings and
was therefore a focal point for the upgrade
strategy. As a result of significant capital
investment, Rockefeller Center is now a
showcase for best practice in optimized
central plant operation on a district scale.
CENTRAL PLANT UPGRADES:
PAST AND PRESENT
As a first step, Tishman Speyer replaced
outdated central plant equipment, such as
chillers and variable frequency drives, with
the latest cutting-edge models. Free cooling
was installed to take advantage of low
ambient outdoor air temperatures during
winter months, and an ice storage system was
installed to shift peak electrical consumption,
reduce strain on the city grid and ensure
eligibility for Con Edison incentives.
Additionally, chiller set-ups were optimized
for predicted load requirements.
CENTRAL PLANT UPGRADES: FUTURE
The central plant is continually undergoing
upgrades and improvements to take
advantage of new technology and best
practice. Tishman Speyer is currently
considering more efficient steam turbine
drives, a cogeneration plant for heat and
power, and battery storage to further shift
peak electrical consumption.
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EFFICIENCY MEASURES
CENTRAL PLANT OPERATIONS
The manner by which the central plant
is operated is just as important as the
equipment itself. Tishman Speyer has a large
in-house team of specialists dedicated to
the smooth running of the central plant and
general building operations. The Building
Management System is also maintained inhouse to ensure a fully integrated approach.
Smart sequencing of different cooling
technologies, such as free cooling, ice storage
and steam and electric chillers, enables plant
operations to be optimized according to the
season, temperature and weather conditions,
as well as prevailing electricity prices.
COMPLEX-WIDE INITIATIVES
A number of demand-side reduction
strategies have been implemented across
the complex. The ice rink, underground
parking and Prometheus fountain have been
connected to heat recovery systems to
reduce Con Edison steam consumption. All
external uplights and downlights have been
replaced with efficient LED lights, along with
illuminating the world-famous Christmas tree
with 30,000 LED lights. A solar PV array has
been installed at 45 Rockefeller Plaza to serve
general building needs during the year and
power the LED Christmas tree lights during
the holiday season.
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ROCKEFELLER CENTER
NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
VARIABLE
FREQUENCY
DRIVES
EXTERNAL LED
LIGHTING
OPERATIONAL
EFFICIENCY
CENTRAL PLANT
UPGRADES
BUILDING
MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM
LED CHRISTMAS
TREE
SOLAR
ARRAY
FREE COOLING
UNITS
PROMETHEUS
FOUNTAIN - HEAT
RECOVERY
ICE
STORAGE
UNDERGROUND
PARKING - HEAT
RECOVERY
ICE RINK - HEAT
RECOVERY
NEW ELECTRIC
CHILLERS
MODIFIED STEAM AND
ELECTRIC CHILLERS
Conceptual plant layout
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ROCKEFELLER CENTER
NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
OFFICE
Energy efficiency and user experience were
key sustainability goals when Tishman Speyer
began transforming Rockefeller Center’s 8
million sq. ft. (740,000 sq. m.) of office space.
In order to increase occupancy rates and
attract industry-leading tenants, the space
was required to meet Class A standards.
EFFICIENCY AND ADVANCED DESIGN
A complex-wide window replacement
program is currently underway to install
dual-pane, thermally insulated glass in all
buildings. Original and bulky steam heaters
are also being replaced with more slimline and
efficient wall units, which use 40% less steam.
In addition, the cooling system has been
upgraded by adding variable air volume air
handling units and variable frequency drives to
chilled water pumps.
In many buildings, state-of-the art, high-speed
destination dispatch elevators have been
installed to reduce wait times and improve
user experience. Lobby lighting has also been
replaced with energy-efficient LED lighting.
Rockefeller Center actively encourages tenant
engagement through programs and events
such as Energy Conservation Days, Earth Day
and Earth Hour.
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UNPARALLELED AMENITIES
AND TRANSPORT HUB
Rockefeller Center is home to over 115 retail
stores, cafés and restaurants, as well as
other major attractions. Every building in
the complex connects at the underground
concourse level, providing seamless access to
one of the busiest subway stations in the city.
LEED® COMMERCIAL INTERIOR
CERTIFICATION
All Rockefeller Center tenants can apply for
LEED Commercial Interior certification. To date,
three of our largest tenants, representing 1.1
million sq. ft. (100,000 sq. m.), have achieved
LEED Silver and Gold certifications.
VARIABLE AIR
VOLUME AHUS
ENERGY
EFFICIENT
WINDOWS
ENERGY
CONSERVATION
DAYS
SLIMLINE
EFFICIENT
RADIATORS
TENANT
SUBMETERING
DESTINATION
DISPATCH
ELEVATORS
SUPPORTING THE 24/7 OFFICE
To support the requirements of a modern, 24/7
office environment, all services are provided
around the clock, including power, chilled water,
heating, security and elevator access.
THE RESULT
As a result of the numerous measures put in
place, Tishman Speyer increased occupancy
rates from 86% in 1996 to 98% in 2015.
Rockefeller Center has attracted and retained
leases for the some of the world’s most
recognized and respected companies, including
Lazard, Deloitte, Gensler, Rockefeller Financial,
Bank of America, Fiduciary Trust, First Republic
Bank, DirecTV and State Street Bank.
CENTRAL
PLANT
OFFICE
VFDS ON CHILLED
WATER PUMPS
24/7
EMERGENCY
HVAC AND
ELEVATOR
ACCESS
CONNECTION
TO OVER 100
RETAIL STORES
LED LIGHTING
IN LOBBIES
RETAIL
CONNECTION
TO 4 SUBWAY
LINES
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
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LARGE-SCALE REDEVELOPMENT
ATTRACTING HIGH-END RETAIL CLIENTS
The transformation of Rockefeller Center’s
retail plan, completed in early 2000,
established a vibrant 600,000 sq. ft. (56,000
sq. m.) connected retail environment of
over 115 stores across the complex. This
created a major tourist attraction and added
unparalleled amenities for office tenants, as
well as enhancing the variety of offerings in
Midtown Manhattan.
The success of the refurbishment has
become evident by the number and quality
of new leases signed with high-end retailers
such as Michael Kors, Anthropologie, Banana
Republic, Lego, Coach, Cole Haan, Kenneth
Cole and J.Crew, among many others.
PRESERVING/UPGRADING
LANDMARK FEATURES
Tishman Speyer worked with the New York
City Landmarks Preservation Commission
to redesign and enlarge retail storefronts,
creating a classic urban mall feel. The main
public areas within the concourse level
were also completely renovated using over
one million dollars of imported bluestone,
custom bronze storefronts and new terrazzo
marble flooring.
600K
SQ. FT. OF
RETAIL SPACE
CHRISTIE’S AUCTION HOUSE
In another significant achievement, Christie’s
Auction House selected Rockefeller Center
as the site for their New York headquarters,
which required a large retail space. Upon
approval from the Landmarks Preservation
Commission, Tishman Speyer repurposed
the Rockefeller Center garage to create a
customized space for the new auction house,
transforming the space and incorporating
many bespoke design elements to meet
Christie’s vision. The project took a year to
complete, and through careful management,
Tishman Speyer was able to keep the garage
open during the entire process.
115
RETAIL
STORES
800K
VISITORS A DAY
DURING HOLIDAY
SEASON
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
WORLD-CLASS COMMUNITY CONNECTIVITY
As one of New York City’s top attractions,
Rockefeller Center lies at the heart of
commerce, culture and community
connectivity. It attracts around 400,000
people each day, soaring to 800,000 during
the holiday season, who come to discover
its historic architecture, dine in its famous
restaurants, shop in its luxury retail stores
and enjoy world-class entertainment.
Attractions include Top of the Rock
Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, the
iconic Ice Rink and Christmas Tree, and NBC’s
daily broadcast events.
Over 75% of construction material was
recycled or salvaged, water saving measures
were implemented to reduce water usage by
over 30%, and a renewable energy contract
was put in place. The newly refurbished
Rainbow Room was awarded LEED CI v2009
Silver.
OUTDOOR AREAS AND GARDENS
To complement the retail aspect of the
Center and further open up the public
spaces, Tishman Speyer renovated the
outdoor areas and gardens of Rockefeller
Plaza. The aim was to combine contemporary
TOP OF THE ROCK OBSERVATION DECK construction details and materials with
classic styling to create an urban mall feel.
Having been out of operation since 1986,
The space, which also includes a number of
Tishman Speyer reopened the observation
private and public rooftop gardens, provides
deck at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in 2005, after
an attractive recreational area for both
a lengthy redevelopment effort. Top of the
tourists and office tenants.
Rock Observation Deck was a large-scale
construction project of 30,000 sq. ft. (2,800
sq. m.) spread over three floors and including CULTURAL EVENTS
retail and media installations in the lobby and As manager and operator of Rockefeller
Center, Tishman Speyer sponsors many of
mezzanine areas.
the cultural events that contribute to the
RAINBOW ROOM
Center’s appeal and add to its status as
the destination of choice for locals, visitors
Recognized as a quintessential New
and office tenants alike. In addition to the
York experience—with its famed rotating
world-famous ice rink, annual Christmas
dancefloor, glamorous décor and panoramic
views of Manhattan—the Rainbow Room can tree lighting and the refurbished Channel
Gardens, Rockefeller Center offers seasonal
now be enjoyed by the public once more.
During the renovation, every effort was made farmers’ markets and an active art program
in collaboration with the Public Art Fund.
to ensure sustainability was a top priority.
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OBSERVATION
DECK
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RAINBOW
ROOM*
OUTDOOR
GARDEN
ICE
SKATING
*LEED Silver Commercial
Interiors v2009
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
TECHNICAL INSIGHTS
READ MORE
READ MORE
UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEX:
Energy Audit
READ MORE
THERMAL INSULATION:
Window Replacement Scheme
READ MORE
OVERVIEW
COOL IN SUMMER:
Central Cooling System
READ MORE
SHIFTING PEAK DEMAND:
Ice Storage
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM:
Building Management System
READ MORE
BEST PRACTICE:
The Team Behind Operations
APPROACH
HARNESSING THE SUN:
Solar Energy
READ MORE
READ MORE
SMART OPERATIONS:
Plant Operating Regimen
READ MORE
BRIGHT SAVINGS:
LED Lighting
READ MORE
WARM IN WINTER:
Heat Recovery
HOME
READ MORE
CENTRAL
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INFLUENCING BEHAVIOR:
Tenant Engagement Initiatives
OFFICE
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ROCKEFELLER CENTER
NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
CONTACT
GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS
Tishman Speyer
Rockefeller Center
45 Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10111
USA
T: +1 212.715.0300
tishmanspeyer.com/contactus
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UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEX: Energy Audit
Through a systematic approach, Tishman Speyer identified operational
improvements to increase system efficiency and performance. The extensive
retro-commissioning program that followed future-proofed Rockefeller Center
for compliance with New York City’s Local Law 87.
UNDERSTANDING THE BUILDINGS
ENERGY CONSERVATION MEASURES (ECMS)
The first step to improving the buildings’ operations was
to undertake a comprehensive, complex-wide energy
audit. Tishman Speyer:
Tishman Speyer identified a long list of potential ECMs
for the central plant and for each of the 12 buildings.
In order to maximize returns, capital expenditure was
apportioned according to return on investment. Tishman
Speyer modeled energy and cost savings against capital
cost estimates, factoring in third-party incentives. The
ECMs were then prioritized by payback period:
• Reviewed all existing plant and building-specific
documentation;
• Interviewed the buildings’ technicians about
operational energy requirements and automatic
settings;
• Developed energy models and calibrated them to
existing system specifications;
• Analyzed all utilities and put in place temporary submetering where applicable;
• Carried out retro-commissioning functional testing
and TAB (Testing, Adjusting and Balancing)
measurements; and
• Analyzed the results to develop a prioritized action
plan for improvements.
OPERATIONAL IMPROVEMENTS
• First Priority (1–2 years), Second Priority (3–6 years),
Tenant Renovation Improvements (7+ years) and Not
Recommended.
• First and Second Priority measures are predicted
to yield nearly 10 GWh total energy savings for the
central plant and another 12.3 GWh for the individual
buildings, over the equipment’s lifetime.
The audit and retro-commissioning were carried
out under one of the largest FlexTech clean energy
programs ever undertaken, totaling $1.4 million, with
$650,000 funding from NYSERDA (New York State
Energy Research and Development Authority).
Over 25 retro-commissioning and no- or low-cost
operational improvement measures were identified
across all 12 buildings, with total lifetime energy savings
estimated to be in the region of 1.3 GWh.
Energy audit and retro-commissioning report
2% Space cooling
7% Ventilation fans
22% Central plant
5% Elevators
7% Hot water
<1%
Heat rejection
3% Pumps
18% Space heat
23.6
504
GWH TOTAL
ESTIMATED LIFETIME
SAVINGS
MEASURES
IMPLEMENTED
20% Plug loads
16% Area lights
Baseline case energy consumption
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THERMAL INSULATION: Window Replacement Scheme
To bring the buildings in line with modern performance standards, Tishman Speyer
recognized that each building envelope needed upgrading. The most practical way
of achieving this was through a window replacement program. But with over 15,500
windows across the complex, this was an extremely challenging undertaking.
THE SCALE OF THE TASK
Tishman Speyer is in the process of carrying out a
rolling replacement of all original single-pane windows.
To date, 9,950 windows have been replaced, improving
energy efficiency and reducing exterior noise.
PRESERVING THE AESTHETIC
Tishman Speyer wanted to ensure that replacement
windows would improve the performance of the
buildings without compromising the aesthetics of
historic façades. Six different brands of windows were
tested to ensure that the replacements would comply
with Rockefeller Center landmark requirements, while
simultaneously blending with the existing windows
during the staged replacement process.
IMPROVED PERFORMANCE
AND INCREASED SPACE
The new double-pane windows have higher thermal
insulation qualities and much reduced ventilation losses
as compared to the original 1933 panes. By improving
the performance of the windows, Tishman Speyer
has reduced the need for cooling and heating in the
interior of the building. The bulky, old heaters have
been replaced with flush slimline units, which has freed
up internal floor space and made the interior more
attractive to tenants. The new radiators use 40% less
steam than their older counterparts.
The total annual operational savings per window is
estimated to be $350.
9,950
40%
$5.5m
WINDOWS
REPLACED
TO DATE
LESS STEAM USED
IN WALL UNIT
EXPECTED ANNUAL
OPERATIONAL SAVINGS
Old window and heating unit
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New window and heating unit
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / USA
BRIGHT SAVINGS: LED Lighting
To reduce operational costs and the overall carbon footprint of Rockefeller Center,
Tishman Speyer is nearing completion of an ambitious LED lighting installation plan.
Offering measurable savings to tenants, as well as making the buildings easier to
maintain, this program has already resulted in considerable energy savings.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING – UPLIGHTS
INTERIOR COMMON AREAS
The original exterior façade uplights comprised 286
1,320W fixtures which were highly energy-intensive.
By replacing these with 290W LED fixtures, energy
consumption has been reduced by 80%. This saving
equates to 760,000 kWh per year, which, based on
New York City carbon emission rates, is equivalent
to 240,000 kg. (529,000 lbs.) of CO2 per year. The
replacement program is currently 85% complete, due
to be finalized in 2016.
Energy-efficient LED lighting is being installed in all
interior public areas that fall under Tishman Speyer
management. This includes lighting in public corridors,
concourse areas, elevator lobbies and egress stairways.
Operational area lighting will be replaced as it reaches
end of life.
The new uplights are also intelligent, full-color LED
lighting fixtures from the Philips Color Kinetics© range
which can be controlled from a central device. The
system is capable of displaying millions of colors that
can be changed at the touch of a button, on a fixture
or group level, and also pre-programmed for dazzling
light shows.
CHRISTMAS TREE
The world-famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a
much-loved attraction, but using five miles of lighting
to illuminate it, Tishman Speyer undertook measures to
make it more sustainable. As a result, the lighting has
been replaced with over 30,000 LED lights powered by
a solar PV installation atop 45 Rockefeller Plaza.
LED downlights in Channel Gardens and uplights on 30 Rockefeller Plaza
EXTERIOR LIGHTING – DOWNLIGHTS
There are 169 200W downlights around the building
and in the public space. Tishman Speyer is currently
replacing these with 50W LED fixtures and as a result
energy consumption will be reduced by 75%. This
saving equates to 65,000 kWh per year, which, based
on NYC carbon emission rates, is equivalent to 21,000
kg. of CO2 per year. This replacement program is
currently 30% complete.
455
830
30,000
LED EXTERNAL
UPLIGHTS AND
DOWNLIGHTS
MWH ANNUAL
SAVINGS
LED CHRISTMAS
LIGHTS
LED lighting in lobby areas
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HARNESSING THE SUN: Solar Energy
Solar photovoltaic arrays are one of the most efficient and relevant on-site
renewable technologies available for city use. They help reduce electrical grid
reliance and peak energy consumption, both of which are particularly important
in New York City.
ROOFTOP PV INSTALLATION
Tishman Speyer installed a 363-panel, 61 kW solar array
atop 45 Rockefeller Plaza. Located 45 stories above
ground, this is the largest privately owned rooftop PV
installation in the city, and one of the highest in the
world. The installation feeds a 60kW inverter where the
energy is converted to high-quality 480 VAC power,
which is then fed back into Rockefeller Center’s grid.
61
9,000
500
KW SOLAR
ARRAY
KWH PRODUCED
PER PEAK MONTH
MWH PRODUCED
TO DATE
USE OF SOLAR POWER
Power produced by the PV system is used to reduce
general building energy consumption needs from
the grid, and during winter months it generates the
energy needed to illuminate the 30,000 LEDs on
the Rockefeller Christmas Tree during its 42 days of
operation.
THE PV SYSTEM:
• Has produced over 500,000 kWh since its installation
at the end of 2007.
• Has resulted in savings equivalent to 150,000 kg. of
CO2, based on New York City CO2 emission rates since
its installation.
• Produces 6,000 kWh per month, on average.
• Produces 1,000–2,000 kWh per month in winter.
• Produces up to 9,000 kWh per month in summer.
Laying the photovoltaic structural framework
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30,000 LED Christmas tree
OFFICE
Installing the photovoltaic panels
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WARM IN WINTER: Heat Recovery
New York City relies on steam from a distributed system managed by Con Edison, using
the largest commercial steam system in the world. Tishman Speyer has introduced a
number of initiatives to reduce steam consumption at Rockefeller Center, as well as
increase the operational efficiency of the buildings’ heating systems.
HEAT RECOVERY
BUILDING HEATING
Heat recovery is a simple but effective means of
reducing wasted energy in a building. Within Rockefeller
Center, building perimeter steam radiator condensate is
utilized wherever possible to deliver a more sustainable
solution, such as:
Tishman Speyer has also implemented a number of
measures to decrease the amount of steam it uses to
heat the Rockefeller Center buildings, including:
Heating the interior garages
The fresh air fan systems in the indoor garage areas
have been converted to utilize waste heat rather than
new steam, to ensure that the garages are kept at the
required temperature.
Melting ice from the rink
To maintain the Rockefeller Ice Rink, the ice has to be
melted on a daily basis during its operating months.
To make this as efficient as possible, an ice resurfacer
clears the top layer of the rink and delivers the ice
shavings to a chute, which are then melted using steam
radiator condensate rather than hot water.
Heating the Prometheus fountain
During the winter months, water for the fountain is
heated utilizing steam radiator condensate to ensure it
does not freeze.
BMS integration
To overcome the limitations of the manually operated
legacy system, Tishman Speyer integrated the BMS with
a programmable logic controller (PLC) to allow steam
to be controlled throughout the complex. This has
resulted in significant energy savings. When required,
heating can be turned off quickly, thereby reducing
losses and improving occupant comfort.
Prometheus fountain heat recovery
Slimline radiators
In tandem with the window replacement program,
the original, bulky steam heaters are in the process of
being replaced with new, highly efficient units. The new
heaters use 40% less steam.
New pipework
To eliminate steam leakage and prevent further heat
loss through poor insulation, the original steam risers,
which date back to the 1930s, are currently being
replaced with new pipework.
Ice rink heat recovery
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COOL IN SUMMER: Central Cooling System
All 12 buildings in Rockefeller Center are served by a single central chilled
water plant located under 30 Rockefeller Plaza, which is relied on daily. A
key consideration is reducing peak energy demand to alleviate strain on
the New York City grid and to manage costs.
Main Cooling Units
Backup Cooling Units
Free Cooling
2,200-ton (7,800 kW)
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BUILDING COOLING EFFICIENCY MEASURES
• Air distribution: To modernize the air distribution
system, constant volume double-ducted Air Handling
Units (AHUs) have been replaced with new singleducted variable air volume AHUs with variable
frequency drives. This also gives tenants the option
of installing demand control ventilation with CO2
sensors to reduce their energy consumption without
compromising air quality.
• Parameters modified: To save chilled water, the chilled
water coil temperature spread parameters have been
increased.
• Outdoor measures: To increase efficiency, outdoor air
dampers and fresh air intakes have been replaced.
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30 Rock
Electric Ice
Storage Chiller
1,300-ton (4,600 kW)
Electric Chiller
1,000-ton (3,500 kW)
Electric Chiller
2,500-ton (8,800 kW)
Electric Chiller
1,000-ton (3,500 kW)
Electric Chiller
1,000-ton (3,500 kW)
Electric Chiller
45 Rock
• Single pass chillers: To better serve the needs of the
buildings by providing higher flow rates to meet
demand, rather than focusing on heat rejection
capacity, the two largest chillers (each 4,000
tons (14,000 kW)) were converted from two-pass
evaporators to single pass. This gives the central plant
greater flexibility in the spring and fall: requirements
can now be fulfilled using one chiller at full capacity,
rather than running multiple machines on part load.
• Free cooling: To capitalize on free cooling during the
winter months, a 2,200-ton (7,800 kW) free cooling
system was installed and connected to the cooling
towers at 10 Rockefeller Plaza. This operates when
temperatures fall below 40oF (4.50C) and is usually
used for two and a half months each year, eliminating
the need to pre-heat large amounts of outdoor air.
• Chiller upgrade: To provide greater efficiencies,
two old 1,000-ton (3,500 kW) electric chillers were
replaced with a single, more efficient 2,500-ton
(8,800 kW) electric chiller.
Ice Storage
8,000 ton hours per day
(28,000 kWh per day)
4,000-ton (14,000 kW)
Electric Chiller
1,500-ton (5,300 kW)
Electric Chiller
Steam Chiller
4,000-ton (14,000 kW)
1,000-ton (3,500 kW)
Electric Chiller
1,000-ton (3,500 kW)
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Radio City Music Hall
The main cooling units at 30 Rockefeller Plaza are
essential to efficient operations at the complex, but
there are supplementary and backup systems located
in 45 Rockefeller Plaza and Radio City Music Hall. Over
time, Tishman Speyer has installed new systems and
technology, as well as upgraded and modified the cooling
units to enhance their efficiency, saving costs and carbon:
Electric Chiller
4,000-ton (14,000 kW)
30 Rock Central Plant
CENTRAL PLANT EFFICIENCY MEASURES
• Ice storage: An ice storage system comprising 41
tanks was installed at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. This
system has the capacity to provide 8,000 ton hours
of cooling (28,000 kWh) each day.
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): To save energy,
VFDs were installed on the cooling tower and
secondary loop chilled-water pumps. The drives
adjust the speed of the electric motor to match the
actual application demand, rather than operating at
constant maximum speed.
• Planned future improvements: These include installing
a more efficient advanced steam turbine drive,
replacing current chillers with new electric chillers
once they reach end of life, and a move towards
cogeneration.
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SHIFTING PEAK DEMAND: Ice Storage
Ice storage provides a cost-efficient way to cool commercial and retail buildings, while
optimizing the power grid. Tishman Speyer installed a cutting-edge, 1,300-ton (4,600
kW) chiller feeding 41 ice storage tanks: each tank is 11 feet high and 7.5 feet in diameter.
This reduces peak cooling requirements, saving on energy, C02 and costs.
COST-EFFICIENT INSTALLATION
OUTCOME
To reduce capital expenditure, Tishman Speyer took
advantage of existing infrastructure such as the cooling
towers and condenser water pipework for the new ice
storage system. The pipe network was redesigned to
increase operating flexibility and to enable the new
chiller to provide backup cooling to tenant spaces
within 30 Rockefeller Plaza, as required.
In excess of 10 GWh of cooling capacity is shifted from
peak daytime hours to off-peak night-time hours. This
reduces strain on the grid and enables Tishman Speyer
to benefit from cheaper off-peak electricity rates per
year. It also reduces the C02 per kWh produced as New
York State’s base load power plants are less carbon
intensive than those brought online to meet peak
demand during the middle of the day. As a result of the
ice storage system, year-round cooling needs can be
met using one less chiller.
DAILY OPERATING REGIMEN
Ice build: 11 pm – 6 am
• The chiller builds ice in the tanks during off-peak
electrical hours.
• This creates over 28,000 kWh of cooling capacity for
use the following day.
Ice burn: 11 am – 6 pm
• This uses two pumps: one pump operates on the ice
storage side and circulates glycol through the tanks,
then sends it to a heat exchanger; the other pump
operates on the central plant side and pumps cool
420F (5.50C) water from the heat exchanger to mix
with the main chilled water lines.
• Central plant operating engineers optimize use of the
ice burn, ensuring they use the total capacity before
6 pm, as well as maximizing the reduction of the
highest daytime peak cooling requirements.
41
10
ICE STORAGE
TANKS
GWH COOLING
SHIFTED TO OFF-PEAK
PER YEAR
Ice tanks in basement of 30 Rockefeller Plaza
1,300-ton (4,600 kW) dedicated ice build chiller
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THE NERVOUS SYSTEM: Building Management System
By continually customizing and optimizing the Building Management System
(BMS) in place at Rockefeller Center, Tishman Speyer has enhanced its level
of sophistication and ensured that it remains as fast as the newest IP-based
systems on the market today.
THE NERVE CENTER OF OPERATIONS
• Central plant automation: BMS integration has
enabled the optimization of plant controls for
efficient operation of the central plant.
• Alarm system: The BMS automatically sends an alert
to operations staff if certain parameters are exceeded.
In this way, any issues, such as faulty fire alarms,
system leaks, unsuitable occupant temperature levels
and central plant equipment speeds, can be identified
and resolved quickly. The system also flags upcoming
equipment maintenance schedules.
• Email alert system: To enhance communications and
expedite the resolution of issues, Tishman Speyer
installed a custom pager alarm system using two-way
radio. This was recently upgraded to enable alerts
sent via email and mobile phone.
• Con Edison peak shaving/peak demand curtailment:
The BMS enables operators to respond to Con Edison
requests to reduce peak demand without delay.
Global adjustments can be made across the complex
from the central plant, which reduces peak load with
minimal impact to tenant comfort.
• Real-time financial impacts: The BMS enables
operators to identify where cost savings can be
made. Real-time electricity pricing is fed into the
system so operators can adjust usage and ensure it
does not slip into a higher Con Edison pricing band.
TAILORED FUNCTIONALITY
To save costs, enable faster response time and lower
downtime, all programming and maintenance of the
BMS system is done in-house. This has the added
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advantage of keeping building knowledge within the
operations team. Best practice is also shared across
other Tishman Speyer properties.
STREAMLINING OPERATIONS
Automating the BMS has enabled control room staff to
be redeployed elsewhere within the team, freeing up
resources to focus on maintenance and other value-add
tasks.
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
Tishman Speyer engineers are continuously looking for
ways to improve the system. When enhancements are
identified, these can be programmed using in-house
BMS specialists. Current planned improvements include:
• Rerouting and replacement of all optic fiber cabling
between buildings to further improve network speeds
and add another layer of resilience. The old ringbased configuration will be changed to a star-based
configuration branching out from the central plant.
• Logic coding/parameters are being set up to
automatically search for potential faults in the system.
By identifying possible faults early, it will minimize
their impact and save time.
829
DDC AND SUBLAN
CONTROLLERS
CENTRAL
PLANT
15,000 70,000
REAL DATA
POINTS
OFFICE
VIRTUAL
DATA POINTS
RETAIL
Central plant control room
Building Management System (BMS) control panel
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SMART OPERATIONS: Plant Operating Regimen
OLD OPERATING REGIMEN
SEASONAL OPERATION
Upon Tishman Speyer’s acquisition of Rockefeller
Center, high individual building demand and inefficient
central plant operating procedures resulted in all
central plant chillers at 30 Rockefeller Plaza running at
maximum capacity during peak summer days, as well
as chillers in other supplementary plants as required.
This equated to approximately 12,000 tons (42,000
kW) at peak.
Different cooling units are utilized throughout the
year, depending on each unit’s efficiency, steam and
electricity pricing, and outside air temperatures. For
example, from April to October (normal and peak
summer months) the use of the steam chiller is
prioritized as steam prices are at their lowest. However,
during other seasons the steam chiller is no longer
used due to peak steam pricing. The diagram to the
right illustrates the sequencing of these units across
each season and an additional scenario showing the
operation on a peak summer day.
NEW OPERATING REGIMEN
Once various demand-side measures and central
plant replacements were complete, the new operating
regimen was put in place. This regimen delivers both
energy and financial benefits, particularly as Con
Edison’s pricing is based on peak usage—the peak
price band is then applied to the entire monthly bill.
The sheer scale of operations at Rockefeller Center
makes the success of this new operating regimen all
the more remarkable.
A combination of building demand reduction, central
plant upgrades and central plant operating efficiencies
has enabled Tishman Speyer to reduce peak summer
demand to around 8,000 tons (28,000 kW), a reduction
of nearly 4,000 tons (14,000 kW).
Cooling demand (high to low)
Normal
Summer
Peak Summer
Fall/Spring
Winter
Ice
Storage
8,000-ton hours
(28,000 kWh)
Sequence of Operation
With 12 buildings across 9 million sq. ft. (840,000 sq. m) reliant on Rockefeller Center’s
central plant, optimizing operations presents a considerable challenge. Tishman Speyer
introduced a new operating regimen aimed at minimizing daytime energy consumption
and maximizing plant equipment efficiency.
Electric
Chiller
2,500-ton
(8,800 kW)
Ice
Storage
8,000-ton hours
(28,000 kWh)
Electric
Chiller
4,000-ton
(14,000 kW)
Electric
Chiller
2,500-ton
(8,800 kW)
Ice
Storage
8,000-ton hours
(28,000 kWh)
Steam
Chiller
Steam
Chiller
4,000-ton
(14,000 kW)
4,000-ton
(14,000 kW)
Electric
Chiller
2,500-ton
(8,800 kW)
Ice
Storage
8,000-ton hours
(28,000 kWh)
Free
Cooling
2,200-ton
(7,800 kW)
Smart Operations: Page 2
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SMART OPERATIONS: Plant Operating Regimen
PEAK SUMMER OPERATION
8,000
6,000
Ice Burn
36,000
30,000
Electric Chiller
24,000
18,000
Electric Chiller
4,000
Cooling (KW)
10,000
Cooling Demand
Main Cooling Demand Ends
Staged Ramp Up of Chillers Ahead of Demand
Main Cooling Demand Starts
42,000
12,000
Cooling (tons)
A deep-dive into peak summer operation gives an
insight into how the central plant operates during
maximum load conditions.
• Night: The smallest and most efficient electric chiller
(2,500-ton (8,800 kW)) is used overnight to meet
night-time cooling requirements. The ice storage is
also charged ready for the following day.
• Morning: Plant operators pre-cool each building in
a staggered manner before staff arrive, in order to
reduce surges on the system. This proactive measure
helps keep the team ahead of demand and helps
prevent spikes which can push consumption into the
next Con Edison electricity pricing band.
• Lunchtime (Peak): As demand increases during the
day, the 4,000-ton (14,000 kW) electric chiller and
2,500-ton (8,800 kW) electric chiller are brought
online. Ice storage is used as required to reduce peaks,
but most notably during the hottest period of the day.
It is during this time that the 4,000-ton (14,000 kW)
chiller is brought online.
• Afternoon/Night: At 6 pm most buildings’ AHUs
ramp down as office tenants finish work, freeing up
plant capacity. The steam chiller is turned off and
one electric chiller (usually the 2,500-ton (8,800 kW)
chiller) continues to serve night-time requirements.
Once the ice storage is completely exhausted and the
non-peak electricity period begins, the ice storage
system begins to charge for the next day.
12,000
2,000
Steam Chiller
6,000
Ice Creation
14,000
0
0
1
KW PEAK SUMMER
OPERATIONS REDUCTION
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Hour of the day
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BEST PRACTICE: The Team Behind Operations
Tishman Speyer benefits from a vertically integrated platform, ensuring best practices
are shared both cross-functionally and across geographical borders. Knowledge-sharing
across all property management teams within Tishman Speyer at a local level ensures
that best practice is kept at the forefront of operations. Teams also meet regularly to
brainstorm potential operational improvements.
KNOWLEDGE KEPT IN-HOUSE
A large integrated engineering team of 70 manages
and carries out all operations and annual maintenance
requirements, with a full equipment overhaul carried
out by an external specialist every five years. All
operations are carried out 24/7, 365 days a year.
The team is made up as follows:
• A team of 18 property management professionals.
• Five engineering groups made up of one central
plant group and four building groups.
• The central plant group comprises a chief engineer,
two assistants and eight operating engineers.
• The four building groups vary based on the size of
the building, but are each typically comprised of a
chief engineer, one to three assistants, four to six
operating engineers and three to five helpers.
• The engineering team is supplemented by specialist
consultants as required.
• Operations are also supported by a wider team
including fire safety, security and elevator staff,
bringing the total operations staff number to 386.
70
386
PERSON DEDICATED
ENGINEERING TEAM
TOTAL OPERATING
STAFF
Security control room
Central plant engineering group
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INFLUENCING BEHAVIOR: Tenant Engagement Initiatives
Tishman Speyer’s longstanding commitment to a more sustainable future
extends beyond direct property improvements at Rockefeller Center. By
participating in a number of public initiatives, Tishman Speyer aims to raise
awareness of environmental issues among tenants and the greater community.
ANNUAL FARMERS’ MARKET
In collaboration with GrowNYC Greenmarket, Tishman
Speyer hosts an annual Farmers’ Market in Rockefeller
Plaza. Featuring specialty products from dozens of
local farms, this summer initiative provides Midtown
tenants and visitors with fresh, appealing and
sustainably-sourced produce, three days a week for
over a month.
PUBLIC ART FUND COLLABORATION
For almost 20 years, Tishman Speyer and the Public
Art Fund have collaborated to display internationally
acclaimed works of art to the millions of people who
visit and work at Rockefeller Center. A number of
these collaborations have incorporated components
highlighting the natural environment and sustainable
practices, including:
• Split-Rocker by Jeff Koons (2014), including over
50,000 living plants in an urban setting.
• Human Nature by Ugo Rondinone (2013), using
the elemental material of stone to reconnect the
contemporary world with our distant origins.
• Electric Fountain by Tim Noble & Sue
Webster (2008), utilizing LEDs to showcase
environmentally-minded technology.
Split-Rocker by Jeff Koons (2014)
“We are delighted to work with the Public Art Fund to make world-class art accessible to all New Yorkers and visitors.”
Jerry Speyer & Rob Speyer
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Electric Fountain by Tim Noble & Sue Webster (2008)
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Human Nature by Ugo Rondinone (2013)
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