Frequently Asked Questions

General

  • Energy benchmarking is the process of tracking a building’s energy use and comparing it to similar buildings to understand its performance over time.

  • It helps identify opportunities for energy savings, reduces operating costs, and ensures compliance with local regulations.

  • An energy audit is a detailed assessment of a building's energy use, identifying ways to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

  • Retro-commissioning is the process of tuning up a building's systems to ensure they are operating efficiently and as intended.

  • These programs aim to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainability.

  • Typically, benchmarking is required annually, but specific deadlines may vary by city.

  • An energy audit identifies energy-saving opportunities, while retro-commissioning ensures existing systems are operating efficiently.

  • No, energy audits must be conducted by a qualified professional to ensure accuracy and compliance.

  • Improved system performance, reduced energy costs, and extended equipment life.

  • It is an online tool used to measure and track energy and water consumption, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.

Los Angeles EBEWE

  • The EBEWE program applies to existing buildings in Los Angeles that are 20,000 square feet or larger.

  • Benchmarking reports must be submitted annually by June 1st and 5-year audits by December 1st.

  • Create an LADBS account, register your building, and submit the benchmarking report using Portfolio Manager.

  • You may face fines and penalties for non-compliance.

  • Use the Energy Star Portfolio Manager to benchmark your building and submit the data to LADBS.

  • EBEWE is a Los Angeles ordinance requiring buildings to benchmark energy and water use and perform audits and retro-commissioning.

  • Buildings 20,000 square feet or larger in Los Angeles are subject to EBEWE requirements.

  • Penalties can include fines and enforcement actions by the city.

  • Yes, you can request an extension from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).

San Francisco EBO

  • Commercial buildings 10,000 square feet and larger, and residential buildings 50,000 square feet and larger.

  • The report is due by May 1st each year.

  • To identify energy-saving opportunities and improve building performance.

  • Hire a qualified energy auditor and submit the audit report to the San Francisco Department of Environment.

  • Yes, buildings with high energy performance or those undergoing major renovations may qualify for exemptions.

  • EBO requires energy benchmarking and audits for large buildings in San Francisco to improve energy efficiency.

  • Submit the report to the San Francisco Department of Environment through their online portal.

  • Non-compliance can result in fines and penalties imposed by the city.

  • Yes, there are various incentives and rebates available for energy efficiency improvements.

San Jose BPO

  • It requires nonresidential and multifamily buildings 20,000 square feet or larger to track and report energy and water use annually.

  • Benchmarking reports are due by May 1st each year.

  • Use the EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to track and report your building's energy and water use.

  • It requires buildings to meet energy and water efficiency standards or perform improvements every five years.

  • Yes, non-compliance can result in fines and penalties.

  • The BPO aims to improve energy and water efficiency in large buildings to reduce environmental impact.

  • Use the EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to track and report your building's energy and water use.

  • Benchmarking reports are due annually by May 1st, with additional requirements every five years.

  • Yes, you can appeal penalties by submitting a request to the City of San Jose.

Berkeley BESO

  • BESO requires buildings to undergo energy assessments and report energy use to improve efficiency.

  • Commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use buildings, as well as houses over 850 square feet.

  • Large buildings must benchmark annually and perform energy assessments every five years.

  • Hire a qualified assessor and submit the report to the City of Berkeley.

  • Yes, buildings with high energy performance or those under certain conditions may qualify for exemptions.

  • BESO requires buildings to undergo energy assessments and report energy use to improve efficiency.

  • Large buildings must benchmark annually and perform energy assessments every five years.