Based in downtown Manhattan, Building Energy Exchange (BE-Ex) works to reduce the climate impact of buildings by helping the building industry adopt energy-efficient and lower-carbon practices. Its work combines education, exhibitions, technology demonstrations and research, connecting New York City’s real-estate and design communities with practical solutions. 34
Founded in 2009 by New York City’s Mayor’s Office and the Natural Resources Defense Council, BE-Ex has operated a public resource center at the Surrogate’s Courthouse, 31 Chambers Street. 3 Richard C. Yancey, its founding executive director and current CEO, has led the organization since its inception; Katie Schwamb was promoted to managing director in 2025. 23
The organization’s projects translate building policy and technical options into guidance for owners, managers and other industry participants. Its “Decarbonizing New York City Offices” initiative, supported by NYSERDA, addresses emissions in leased commercial spaces, while “Cutting Carbon in Co-ops & Condos” offers boards and property managers guidance on decarbonization planning, Local Law 97 compliance and capital planning. 1 BE-Ex also develops training, case studies and resources on retrofits, building systems and high-performance construction. 41
Its primary work is rooted in New York City and State climate efforts, but its reach extends beyond the region: BE-Ex describes itself as the first in a growing network of building-decarbonization hubs, and it has a role in international high-performance-building collaboration through the United Nations’ International Centres of Excellence network. 10111