Energy Benchmarking Ordinances
Energy Benchmarking Reporting
Energy Benchmarking Made Simple: Your Guide to Compliance
At 1st Green Choice, we help building owners across the United States navigate the complex world of energy benchmarking ordinances and local energy efficiency regulations. These laws require property owners to track and report their building’s energy use annually, promoting sustainability and transparency. With requirements varying by city and state—and evolving every year—staying compliant can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
Below, you’ll find an updated guide to energy benchmarking ordinances nationwide, along with details on how our services simplify the process. Let us handle the reporting so you can focus on running your building efficiently.
What Are Energy Benchmarking Ordinances?
Energy benchmarking ordinances mandate that building owners measure and report their energy consumption, typically using tools like ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. The data is compared to similar buildings or national standards, helping identify opportunities to save energy and reduce costs. Many cities also require public disclosure of this data, driving accountability and encouraging upgrades.
Why Energy Benchmarking Matters?
- Save Money: Pinpoint inefficiencies and lower utility bills.
- Stay Compliant: Avoid fines by meeting local deadlines.
- Boost Property Value: Energy-efficient buildings attract tenants and investors.
- Support Sustainability: Contribute to climate goals with reduced emissions.
Updated State-by-State Guide to Energy Benchmarking (2025)
Here’s the latest on energy benchmarking requirements across key U.S. cities and states. Regulations differ by location, so check your building’s jurisdiction—and let us help you comply.
California
- Statewide: Under AB 802, commercial and multifamily buildings over 50,000 sq. ft. must report energy use by June 1 annually to the California Energy Commission.
- Los Angeles: The EBEWE Program applies to buildings over 20,000 sq. ft., requiring energy and water benchmarking plus audits or retro-commissioning every five years.
- San Francisco: Buildings over 10,000 sq. ft. must benchmark annually under the Existing Building Ordinance.
New York
- New York City: Local Law 84 mandates buildings over 25,000 sq. ft. to benchmark energy and water use by May 1 each year. Energy efficiency grades are also required under Local Law 33.
Washington
- Seattle: Buildings over 20,000 sq. ft. must submit annual energy reports, with city support for efficiency upgrades.
Massachusetts
- Boston: BERDO requires large buildings to report energy and water use, plus meet energy reduction goals over time.
Colorado
- Denver: Buildings over 25,000 sq. ft. must benchmark annually and hit energy performance targets by 2030.
Illinois
- Chicago: Buildings over 50,000 sq. ft. report energy use yearly, with mandatory data verification every three years.
Texas
- Austin: ECAD requires energy audits for multifamily buildings and benchmarking for commercial properties over 10,000 sq. ft.
Oregon
- Portland: Commercial buildings over 20,000 sq. ft. must benchmark annually, with city-provided tools.
Maryland
- Montgomery County: Buildings over 25,000 sq. ft. benchmark yearly; state standards kick in for larger buildings in 2025.
Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia: Commercial buildings over 50,000 sq. ft. report energy and water use annually.
Washington, D.C.
- District of Columbia: Buildings over 10,000 sq. ft. must benchmark and meet energy performance standards.
What’s New in 2025?
- Broader Reach: Cities like NYC have lowered size thresholds, pulling more buildings into compliance.
- Performance Standards: Denver and D.C. now require buildings to hit specific efficiency targets.
- Data Accuracy: Chicago and LA mandate third-party verification for reports.
How We Help Building Owners
We take the stress out of energy benchmarking with end-to-end support:
- Full Reporting: We collect your utility data and submit accurate reports on time.
- Deadline Tracking: Never miss a city or state deadline again.
- Audits & Upgrades: For cities requiring assessments, we deliver audits and retro-commissioning.
- Expert Guidance: Our team stays current on regulations, so you don’t have to.
Ready to comply without the hassle? Contact us for a free consultation.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Energy benchmarking laws are expanding fast. Bookmark this page for the latest updates, and let us keep your building compliant and efficient year-round.