Brooklyn Museum Announces $48 Million for Energy Modernization

The comprehensive energy upgrades include the addition of a solar array over an existing parking area, installation of an advanced building management system, upgrades to the HVAC system including the electrification of a humidification system, and conversion of the existing aging steam generation heating plant to a new high-efficiency hot water plant to reduce fuel consumption. The new features will ensure that the museum is equipped with forward-thinking, sustainable solutions that meet contemporary and future energy needs. The project, fully funded by DCAS and delivered in partnership with the Power Authority’s energy services program, is anticipated to be complete in mid-2027; anticipated greenhouse gas reductions are expected to be significant, reducing building emissions by approximately 3,300 metric tons, the equivalent of removing 725 vehicles from the road.

"This administration is putting every square inch of this city to work in our green transition," said Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson. "The $48 million energy efficiency project at Brooklyn Museum will transform a century-old building into a modern example of our sustainable future. By reducing emissions and improving efficiency, this project is good for our environment, good for our health, and good for our city and all who call it home."

“The coming energy efficiency upgrades at the Brooklyn Museum are a major step forward for this iconic institution, representative of our efforts to set the standard for sustainable facility practices across the city,” said DCAS Commissioner Yume Kitasei. “Through transformative projects like these at cultural landmarks across the city, we are committed to investing in energy-efficient and resilient facilities, a critical component of a greener, clearer environment for New Yorkers.

“We’re thrilled to partner with DCAS and the New York Power Authority on this transformative project, which greatly advances the museum's green energy commitments and represents a major investment in the Brooklyn Museum’s future,” says Anne Pasternak, Shelby White and Leon Levy Director, Brooklyn Museum. “Renewable energy systems will reduce our environmental footprint and ensure our historic building can continue to serve as a vibrant, sustainable space for art and community for generations to come.”

“The New York Power Authority is proud to join with Brooklyn Museum and DCAS to modernize building systems and energy infrastructure at one of New York City’s most celebrated cultural institutions,” said NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll. “By increasing energy efficiency and integrating on-site renewable power, we are creating a living demonstration of how historic buildings can become thriving, contemporary examples of sustainability.”

As part of the project, a new comprehensive carport solar array outside the museum's 19th-century building at 200 Eastern Parkway will be installed to generate clean energy year-round and offer shaded parking spaces, enhancing the functionality of the parking area between the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Museum. The construction of this system will enable real-time tracking of energy production and usage, offering valuable insights for energy management and sustainability reporting.

Main Image: Exterior of the Brooklyn Museum (Courtesy of Brooklyn Museum: photo: Paula Abreu Pita)