FAQs
Welcome to our FAQs page. Here, you'll find answers to common questions about our services, city compliance programs, and energy efficiency. Explore our FAQs to get the information you need quickly and easily.
General
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Energy benchmarking is the process of tracking a building’s energy use and comparing it to similar buildings to understand its performance over time.
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It helps identify opportunities for energy savings, reduces operating costs, and ensures compliance with local regulations.
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An energy audit is a detailed assessment of a building's energy use, identifying ways to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
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Retro-commissioning is the process of tuning up a building's systems to ensure they are operating efficiently and as intended.
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These programs aim to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainability.
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Typically, benchmarking is required annually, but specific deadlines may vary by city.
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An energy audit identifies energy-saving opportunities, while retro-commissioning ensures existing systems are operating efficiently.
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No, energy audits must be conducted by a qualified professional to ensure accuracy and compliance.
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Improved system performance, reduced energy costs, and extended equipment life.
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It is an online tool used to measure and track energy and water consumption, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.
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The EBEWE program applies to existing buildings in Los Angeles that are 20,000 square feet or larger.
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Benchmarking reports must be submitted annually by June 1st and 5-year audits by December 1st.
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Create an LADBS account, register your building, and submit the benchmarking report using Portfolio Manager.
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You may face fines and penalties for non-compliance.
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Use the Energy Star Portfolio Manager to benchmark your building and submit the data to LADBS.
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EBEWE is a Los Angeles ordinance requiring buildings to benchmark energy and water use and perform audits and retro-commissioning.
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Buildings 20,000 square feet or larger in Los Angeles are subject to EBEWE requirements.
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Penalties can include fines and enforcement actions by the city.
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Yes, you can request an extension from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
Los Angeles EBEWE
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Commercial buildings 10,000 square feet and larger, and residential buildings 50,000 square feet and larger.
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The report is due by May 1st each year.
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To identify energy-saving opportunities and improve building performance.
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Hire a qualified energy auditor and submit the audit report to the San Francisco Department of Environment.
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Yes, buildings with high energy performance or those undergoing major renovations may qualify for exemptions.
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EBO requires energy benchmarking and audits for large buildings in San Francisco to improve energy efficiency.
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Submit the report to the San Francisco Department of Environment through their online portal.
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Non-compliance can result in fines and penalties imposed by the city.
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Yes, there are various incentives and rebates available for energy efficiency improvements.
San Francisco EBO
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It requires nonresidential and multifamily buildings 20,000 square feet or larger to track and report energy and water use annually.
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Benchmarking reports are due by May 1st each year.
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Use the EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to track and report your building's energy and water use.
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It requires buildings to meet energy and water efficiency standards or perform improvements every five years.
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Yes, non-compliance can result in fines and penalties.
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The BPO aims to improve energy and water efficiency in large buildings to reduce environmental impact.
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Use the EPA ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to track and report your building's energy and water use.
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Benchmarking reports are due annually by May 1st, with additional requirements every five years.
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Yes, you can appeal penalties by submitting a request to the City of San Jose.
San Jose BPO
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BESO requires buildings to undergo energy assessments and report energy use to improve efficiency.
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Commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use buildings, as well as houses over 850 square feet.
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Large buildings must benchmark annually and perform energy assessments every five years.
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Hire a qualified assessor and submit the report to the City of Berkeley.
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Yes, buildings with high energy performance or those under certain conditions may qualify for exemptions.
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BESO requires buildings to undergo energy assessments and report energy use to improve efficiency.
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Large buildings must benchmark annually and perform energy assessments every five years.