Aspen Energy Benchmarking

The City of Aspen passed Ordinance No. 5 in April of 2022. The benchmarking ordinance requires certain property owners to address existing building performance standards through energy and water benchmarking and a building performance standard. The City of Aspen utilizes the Building IQ program to help commercial and multifamily buildings save energy.

The City of Aspen has set science-based targets for community greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 63% by 2030 and 100% (zero carbon) by 2050. Buildings account for 57% of Aspen's total greenhouse gas emissions, with 27% coming from commercial buildings and 30% coming from residential buildings. Because of the significant contribution from buildings, Aspen is doubling down on their efforts to reduce their carbon “blueprint”.

In 2024, commercial properties that are 10,000 square feet. and larger and multifamily properties that are 20,000 square feet and greater are required to comply with Aspen’s benchmarking ordinance. All covered non-city commercial properties ≥5,000 sq. ft. and multifamily properties ≥15,000 sq. ft. will also be required to report starting in 2025.

Your building may qualify for an exemption if you meet any of the following:

• The property did not have a Certificate of Occupation or temporary Certificate of Occupation for that full year;

• A demolition permit for the entire building was issued during that year, provided that demolition work commenced, and legal occupancy was no longer possible prior to the end of that year;

• The property did not receive energy or water utility services for at least 30 days during that year;

• Due to special circumstances unique to the applicant's facility and not based on a condition caused by actions of the applicant, strict compliance with provisions of this ordinance would cause undue hardship;

• The property is experiencing financial hardship.

The City requires building owners to report their energy usage annually via the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager tool by June 1st.

All energy utilities including electricity, natural gas, district energy, and any other purchased fuel type used to operate your building.

Water is another utility that is required for reporting.

The fines for noncompliance are $100 for the first offense, $200 for the second offense, and any additional offenses will require a mandatory Court appearance with fines being determined by the Court.

Building owners must report their energy usage data to EPA’s Portfolio Manager, a reporting tool that allows building owners to compare their building’s energy efficiency with similar buildings.

However:

• Touchstone IQ for Buildings is a fast, easy-to-use tool that integrates directly with EPA’s Portfolio Manager

• Touchstone IQ also offers expert-led benchmarking to building owners and managers looking for streamlined compliance and cost-saving recommendations

Many benchmarking ordinances require a Building ID as part of the report submission process. If needed, you may be able to find your Building ID number here.

• Aspen Building IQ Energy and Water Benchmarking Program

• Aspen’s Energy Benchmarking to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions Ordinance

Aspen properties will also be required to comply with the Colorado state energy benchmarking ordinance. Learn more about Colorado’s requirements here.

Touchstone IQ for Buildings offers expert-led benchmarking and easy DIY tools for Aspen’s large properties. Simplify energy benchmarking compliance while gaining the tools to save money and build your energy intelligence with our exclusive software platform. Gain access to the nation's leading energy experts to ensure significant improvements in your energy usage for your commercial, multifamily, or public building. Our team has partnered with entities of all sizes to reduce their carbon footprint, reach ambitious targets, and comply with new regulations. Whether you're looking for comprehensive, step-by-step guidance to craft your energy management plan or a convenient, intuitive benchmarking solution, we've got you covered. Schedule your free personalized demo today or contact us for pricing or questions.