The Solaire has been environmentally engineered to consume 35% less energy, reduce peak demand for electricity by 65%, require 50% less potable water, provide healthier indoor air quality and offer substantially more natural light than typical residential buildings. The residence features include the use photovoltaic cells, integrated within the exterior walls that are capable of generating 5% of the building's base electric load; a Fresh air supply to each residence, filtered to remove 85% of particulate matter; and the use of green building materials with high recycled content, or manufactured with renewable or rapidly renewable resources, free of formaldehyde and containing low or no volatile organic compounds.

"The Solaire stands as a model for future residential development in New York City and across the nation, but also as a symbol of the ability of New Yorkers to rise above adversity," Pataki said.

"It was a challenging after Sept. 11," added Bill Norton, regional director Northeast for Northwestern Mutual, which has invested more than $545 million in New York City since Sept. 11.