Columbus Energy & Water Benchmarking & Transparency Ordinance

June 1, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Columbus Energy & Water Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of March 2020, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Columbus’ Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

Commercial and multifamily buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

June 1, annually. Benchmarking reports must be submitted on an annual basis using the previous year’s data via ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. This is the EPA’s benchmarking tool that is used for compliance reporting in most ordinances across the country.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Building Performance Standards (BPS) are often considered Phase II of these building energy use ordinances. After reporting your benchmarking data, many ordinances require you to make changes to the building’s operations or equipment to lower energy use over time.

Columbus does not currently have a BPS requirement.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Columbus does not require data verification.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

Failure to comply within the Columbus Energy and Water Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance will result in the issuance of a written warning. If compliance is not achieved within 60 days of the warning, the Property Owner will be subject to late fees and penalties as outlined in the Combined Development Related Fee Schedule.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Columbus Energy & Water Benchmarking and Transparency compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as the Columbus Energy & Water Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

Waiting until the last minute risks missing compliance windows resulting in fines and enforcement penalties. VCA Green takes every measure to ensure complete and accurate data collection. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you will reach compliance.

COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Columbus Climate Action Plan

Bill Text

Chapter 4117 – Energy Benchmarking

Ordinance Homepage

Columbus Benchmarking Website

DOWNLOAD COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

Official ordinance page Green Econome Process

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Ann Arbor Energy and Water Benchmarking and Disclosure Ordinance requirements, penalties, fines and covered buildings

Ann Arbor Energy & Water Benchmarking & Disclosure Ordinance

June 1, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Ann Arbor Energy and Water Benchmarking and Disclosure Ordinance, is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of October 2021, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Ann Arbor’s Climate Action Plan goals.

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

All buildings and campuses over 20,000 Sq. Ft.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Ann Arbor does not have a BPS requirement at this time.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Ann Arbor does not currently require data verification.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

Failure to comply with Ann Arbor’s Benchmarking Ordinance will result in a $500 fine. Any subsequent violations will result in a $1,000 fine per offense.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Ann Arbor Energy and Water Benchmarking compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Ann Arbor Energy and Water Benchmarking are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Ann Arbor Climate Action Plan

Bill Text

Ordinance No. Ord. 21-30

Ordinance Homepage

Energy and Water Benchmarking and Disclosure Ordinance

DOWNLOAD ANN ARBOR SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Energy Policy IL

Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance, is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2013, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Chicago’s Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

Group 1 Covered Property

Any building or group of buildings over 250,000 Sq. Ft.

Group 2 Covered Property

Any building or group of buildings between 50,000 and 250,000 Sq. Ft.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance does not currently have a BPS program.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Under the Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance, data verification was required in the first year of reporting and is required every 3 years thereafter. Below were the first reporting years based on building size:

Commercial buildings over 250,000 Sq. Ft. – June 1, 2014
Commercial buildings between 50,000 and 250,000 Sq. Ft. – June 1, 2015
Residential buildings over 250,000 Sq. Ft. – June 1, 2015
Residential buildings between 50,000 and 250,000 Sq. Ft. – June 1, 2016

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

Failure to comply with the Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance will result in a $100 fine and an additional $25 per day until the building is in compliance.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Chicago Energy Benchmarking are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

CHICAGO BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Chicago Climate Action Plan

Bill Text

Chicago Municipal Code, Chapter 18-14

Ordinance Homepage

Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance Homepage

VCA GREEN IS A CHICAGO AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDER

DOWNLOAD CHICAGO BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

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Energy Policy MO

St. Louis Building Energy Performance Standard (BEPS)

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of St. Louis introduced its Building Energy Awareness Ordinance in 2017, which requires owners of buildings that are 50,000 Sq. Ft. and larger to submit ENERGY STAR® benchmarking reports annually.

In 2020, the Building Energy Performance Standard (BEPS) program was passed. It is a citywide building performance standards (BPS) program requiring new and existing buildings to meet or exceed energy use reduction targets set by the city. Together, these programs provide building owners with insight into their building’s energy efficiency and help meet the City of St. Louis’ Sustainability Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER ST. LOUIS BEPS?

Group 1 Covered Properties

Buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. and larger and are either:

Owned by the City
The City pays for the majority of the annual energy bills

Group 2 Covered Properties

Buildings other than a Group 1 property that are 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger including buildings held in the condominium form of ownership that is governed by the same board.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE ST. LOUIS BEPS BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

Municipal buildings must report by December 31, annually. Non-municipal buildings (institutional, commercial, and multifamily) must report by April 1, annually.

Benchmarking reports must be submitted on an annual basis using the previous year’s data via ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. This is the EPA’s benchmarking tool that is used for compliance reporting in most ordinances across the country.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

St. Louis BEPS requires covered properties to meet weather-normalized site energy use intensity (site EUI) targets based on the property type. These targets become more strict every 4 year cycle.

Paths to Compliance

St. Louis offers multiple pathways to compliance. Below is a summary list. Further details can be found on this Fact Sheet:

Performance: As described above, properties meet the weather-normalized site EUI for that specific cycle.
Early Adopters: Buildings that meet or exceed targets AND reduce site EUI by 20% or more will be placed in compliance for certain future cycles.
Alternative Compliance Path: If a property reduced its EUI by 50% of the difference between its 2018 baseline EUI and the EUI standard for its property type in that cycle AND submits required documentation, then it is in compliance.
Custom Alternative Compliance Path: If a property has unique characteristics, the owner can apply for a custom alternative compliance path. This requires an application with the City and an ASHRAE Level II Audit. Compliance is achieved once approved by the City.

WHEN ARE ST. LOUIS BEPS REPORTS DUE?

Compliance Cycles

The first BEPS compliance cycle was May 4, 2021 through May 4, 2025. St. Louis generally operates on a “4+1” cycle in which the first 3 years are for energy improvement, the fourth year is to achieve the target, and the fifth year is to maintain performance and plan for the next cycle.

The next compliance years are 2030 and 2035.

*Qualified affordable housing and houses of worship will have six years to meet the standard. For these facilities, the first compliance due date is May 4, 2027.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Under St. Louis BEPS, data verification is required to confirm building performance standards compliance. The data from the last year of each BEPS cycle (known as a verification year), must be verified by a third party.

For example, in the 2021-2025 BEPS cycle, data verification was required for 2024 data. Data verification must be submitted by June 1st of the final year in the compliance cycle.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH ST. LOUIS BEPS?

St. Louis buildings that fail to benchmark or comply with BEPS will be issued a written warning upon initial violation. If the required information is not submitted within 60 days of the warning, a fine of $50 to $200 per day will be issued up to $1,000 per year. Buildings not in compliance will not be eligible for issuance of new residential or commercial occupancy permits.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH ST. LOUIS BEPS?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance. We perform benchmarking, third-party verification, and building performance services.

St. Louis BEPS compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START ST. LOUIS BEPS COMPLIANCE?

While each service varies, the process of benchmarking, or analyzing data, can take 3-6 months on average. Ordinances such as St. Louis BEPS are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

Waiting until the last minute risks missing compliance windows, resulting in fines and enforcement penalties. VCA Green takes every measure to ensure complete and accurate data collection. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you will reach compliance.

ST. LOUIS BEPS RESOURCES

Climate Policy

St. Louis Climate Action & Adaptation

Bill Text

St. Louis Ordinance No. 71132

Ordinance Homepage

St. Louis Building Energy Performance Standards

DOWNLOAD ST. LOUIS BEPS SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

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Energy Policy MO

Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance, is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2020, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the Kansas City’s Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

Group 1 Covered Property

Buildings 10,000 Sq. Ft. or larger that are owned by the city and for which the city regularly pays all or part of the annual energy bills.

Group 2 Covered Property

Buildings 100,000 Sq. Ft. or larger or buildings that are held in a condominium form of ownership that are governed by the same board that exceeds 100,000 Sq. Ft.

Group 3 Covered Property

Buildings between 50,000 and 100,000 Sq. Ft. or buildings that are held in a condominium form of ownership that are governed by the same board, and that are between 50,000 and 100,000 Sq. Ft.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

May 1, annually. Benchmarking reports must be submitted on an annual basis using the previous year’s data via ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. This is the EPA’s benchmarking tool that is used for compliance reporting in most ordinances across the country.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Kansas City Energy Empowerment Ordinance does not currently require anything beyond annual benchmarking.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Kansas City Energy Empowerment does not require third-party data verification.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

Kansas City Energy Empowerment violations will result in:

A written warning
A $50-500 fine if not submitted within 60 days of written warning
A fine every day until in compliance – not exceeding $2,000 per year

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Kansas City Energy Empowerment compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Kansas City Energy Empowerment are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

KANSAS CITY RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Kansas City Climate Action Plan

Bill Text

Chapter 17 Energy Empowerment

Ordinance Homepage

Kansas City Energy and Water Benchmarking

DOWNLOAD KANSAS CITY BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Energy Policy IA

Des Moines Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Des Moines Energy and Water Use Benchmarking Ordinance is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2019, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Des Moines’ Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER DES MOINES BENCHMARKING?

Covered Property

Any building 25,000 Sq. Ft. or larger.

City Covered Property

Any covered property that is owned entirely or leased by the City of Des Moines.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE DES MOINES BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

July 1, annually. Benchmarking reports must be submitted on an annual basis using the previous year’s data via ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. This is the EPA’s benchmarking tool that is used for compliance reporting in most ordinances across the country.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Des Moines does not currently have a BPS program.

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

Third-party data verification requires owners/managers of covered buildings to hire a third-party expert who will independently review and verify the building’s benchmarking data.

Des Moines does not require data verification at this time.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH DES MOINES BENCHMARKING?

The ordinance allows for non-compliance penalties potentially up to $750 per offense with repeated violations may face fines up to $1,000 per offense.

The City has stated that it will not enforce fines at this moment.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH DES MOINES BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Des Moines Energy and Water Benchmarking compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START DES MOINES BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Des Moines Benchmarking are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

DES MOINES BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Adapt DSM

Bill Text

Article IX – Energy and Water Use Benchmarking

Ordinance Homepage

City of Des Moines Energy Benchmarking

DOWNLOAD DES MOINES BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Energy Policy MN

Edina Efficient Buildings Ordinance

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Edina Efficient Buildings Ordinance is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2019, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Edina’s Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER EDINA BENCHMARKING?

Covered Buildings

Commercial and residential buildings 25,000 to 49,999 Sq. Ft.

Note: Buildings in Edina that are 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger must comply with the State’s benchmarking ordinance.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE EDINA BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Edina requires covered properties that show “energy improvement potential” to conduct an energy assessment in five year intervals.

WHEN ARE EDINA ENERGY ASSESSMENTS DUE?

Energy assessments for low-performing buildings (as deemed by the City) were required to conduct an energy assessment by December 1, 2024. Low-performing buildings are required to provide proof of the assessment every fifth December 1 thereafter.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH EDINA BENCHMARKING?

Failure to comply with Edina’s Efficient Buildings Ordinance will result in a $1,000 civil penalty.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH EDINA BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Edina Efficient Buildings Ordinance compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START EDINA BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Edina Efficient Buildings Ordinance are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

EDINA BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Edina Climate Action Plan

Bill Text

Article XI Efficient Building Benchmarking

Ordinance Homepage

Edina Efficient Buildings Ordinance

DOWNLOAD EDINA BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Energy Policy MN

Minnesota Large Building Energy Benchmarking Program

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The state of Minnesota’s Large Building Energy Benchmarking program is a statewide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2025, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the state of Minnesota’s Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

Buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger that are served by an investor-owned utility in the following counties:

Anoka County
Carver County
Dakota County
Hennepin County
Ramsey County
Scott County
Washington County

Buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger located in any city outside the metropolitan area with a population of over 50,000 residents served by a municipal energy utility or investor-owned utility.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

June 1, annually. Buildings 100,000 Sq. Ft. or larger began reporting in 2025. Buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger begin in 2026.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING?

Failure to comply with the Minnesota Benchmarking program will result in a $1,000 fine to the building owner. You may apply for a deadline extension to August 15.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Minnesota Benchmarking compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as the Minnesota Large Building Energy Benchmarking program are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Minnesota Climate Action Framework

Bill Text

Sec. 216C.331

Ordinance Homepage

Minnesota Large Building Energy Benchmarking

DOWNLOAD MINNESOTA BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Energy Policy MN

Minneapolis Energy Benchmarking

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Minneapolis Energy Benchmarking is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy and water use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2014, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Minneapolis’ Climate Action Plan goals.

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

Commercial buildings and residential buildings 50,000 Sq. Ft. or larger.

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy, water, and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Minneapolis requires low performing buildings (ENERGY STAR score of less than 75 or is on the city’s low performing building list) to conduct an ASHRAE Level I Audit or perform a tune-up to base building systems every 5 years.

WHEN ARE MINNEAPOLIS ENERGY EVALUATIONS DUE?

Energy evaluations must be submitted by low performing buildings by June 1. Once conducted, they are good for 5 years.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING?

Missing the June 1 deadline will result in a $200 fine and two weeks to submit the data or get an extension. If you miss the two week deadline, the fine will be doubled and this process will repeat up to 4 times.

Any unpaid fines will be added to the building’s property taxes.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Minneapolis Benchmarking compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Minneapolis Benchmarking are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

Climate Policy

Minneapolis Climate Equity Plan

Bill Text

Minneapolis Title 3 47.190

Ordinance Homepage

Minneapolis Energy Benchmarking

DOWNLOAD MINNEAPOLIS BENCHMARKING SUMMARY

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

Austin Texas Energy benchmarking and disclosure requirements - Energy Conservation and Disclosure Program for multifamily and commercial buildings

Energy Policy TX

Austin Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD)

May 29, 2026 Connor Chow

The City of Austin Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure (ECAD) is a citywide energy benchmarking & disclosure program requiring owners of existing buildings to report energy use annually, using ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®. Effective as of June 2012, this program provides building owners insight into their building’s energy efficiency and helps meet the City of Austin’s Climate Action Plan goals.

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WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER AUSTIN ECAD?

Property Size

Commercial buildings 10,000 Sq. Ft. or larger (required to benchmark)
Multifamily facilities with 5 or more units (required to perform an energy audit)

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

Annual benchmarking reporting requires 12 calendar months of whole-building energy and building use data. For example, in 2025, building owners must report 12 months of 2024 data.

WHEN ARE AUSTIN ECAD BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Austin ECAD requires multifamily properties to perform an energy audit by an ECAD energy professional every 10 years. High Energy Use properties that use 150% more energy than the average use of similar properties must reduce their consumption by 20%, and provide a report to current and prospective residents.

WHEN ARE AUSTIN ECAD AUDITS DUE?

Under Austin ECAD, multifamily properties must perform an energy audit 10 years after it completes construction, and every 10 years thereafter.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH AUSTIN ECAD?

Austin ECAD violations will result in fines up to $2,000. Each violation constitutes a separate, distinct offense.

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH AUSTIN ECAD?

CONTACT US HERE to learn more and get started with compliance.

Austin Energy Conservation Audit and Disclosure compliance can be confusing and hard to navigate. Bringing on a consultant like VCA Green streamlines the entire process while ensuring accurate reporting. We also offer free consultations with our benchmarking clients to review the reports and identify inefficiencies to improve.

WHEN SHOULD I START AUSTIN ECAD COMPLIANCE?

Ordinances such as Austin ECAD are already in effect across the country, and deadlines are rapidly approaching. Retrieving historical building data will take time, especially when coordinating with property managers and utilities.

AUSTIN ECAD RESOURCES

Climate Policy

VCA GREEN PROCESS

With every phase of the process, VCA Green’s experienced and knowledgeable team is here to guide you on the results, options, and path forward to meet your compliance goals.

RELEVANT SERVICES

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BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN ARE COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING?

WHEN SHOULD I START COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

COLUMBUS BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

VCA GREEN PROCESS

RELEVANT SERVICES

ENERGY STAR® BENCHMARKING

ENERGY & WATER AUDITS

BUILDING PERFORMANCE DASHBOARD

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

Property Size

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN ARE ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN SHOULD I START ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

ANN ARBOR BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

VCA GREEN PROCESS

RELEVANT SERVICES

ENERGY STAR® BENCHMARKING

ENERGY & WATER AUDITS

BUILDING PERFORMANCE DASHBOARD

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

Group 1 Covered Property

Group 2 Covered Property

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN ARE CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING?

WHEN SHOULD I START CHICAGO ENERGY BENCHMARKING COMPLIANCE?

CHICAGO BENCHMARKING RESOURCES

VCA GREEN PROCESS

RELEVANT SERVICES

ENERGY STAR® BENCHMARKING

ENERGY & WATER AUDITS

BUILDING PERFORMANCE DASHBOARD

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER ST. LOUIS BEPS?

Group 1 Covered Properties

Group 2 Covered Properties

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN ARE ST. LOUIS BEPS BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

Paths to Compliance

WHEN ARE ST. LOUIS BEPS REPORTS DUE?

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH ST. LOUIS BEPS?

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH ST. LOUIS BEPS?

WHEN SHOULD I START ST. LOUIS BEPS COMPLIANCE?

ST. LOUIS BEPS RESOURCES

VCA GREEN PROCESS

RELEVANT SERVICES

ENERGY STAR® BENCHMARKING

ENERGY & WATER AUDITS

BUILDING PERFORMANCE DASHBOARD

BEGIN COMPLIANCE NOW

WHAT BUILDINGS ARE COVERED UNDER KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

Group 1 Covered Property

Group 2 Covered Property

Group 3 Covered Property

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BENCHMARKING?

WHEN ARE KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT BENCHMARKING REPORTS DUE?

WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR BPS?

WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY DATA VERIFICATION?

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES IF YOU DON'T COMPLY WITH KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

HOW DO I COMPLY WITH KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT?

WHEN SHOULD I START KANSAS CITY ENERGY EMPOWERMENT COMPLIANCE?

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING

ENERGY STAR®
BENCHMARKING