The Energize Denver Ordinance requires owners of large buildings to benchmark their building’s energy usage and report it to the City of Denver. The City will then publish this data online so that owners can see how each building compares to its peers.

The Energize Denver Ordinance was created to improve the market valuation of energy efficiency and aims to see 2-3% savings in energy usage year over year.

The Energize Denver Ordinance covers buildings in the City of Denver and Denver County over 25,000 square feet in size. Starting in 2023, manufacturing, agricultural, and industrial buildings are also required to benchmark for the first time (deadline: December 1).

Additionally, buildings will have to meet two interim performance targets in 2025 and 2027. These interim performance targets will help you reach your final performance target in 2030.

Your building may qualify for an exemption from reporting if:

• Not occupied; didn't have Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or temp CO for all 12 months of the calendar year for which benchmarking is required

• Not occupied, due to renovation, for all 12 mo's of the benchmarking calendar year

• Demolition permit issued for the entire building; demo work commenced on or before 6/1 benchmarking deadline

• Building is presently experiencing financial distress: (i) Tax lien sale or public auction due to property tax arrangements (ii) Controlled by a court-appointed receiver; or (iii) Been acquired by a deed in lieu of foreclosure

• Avg physical occupancy < 60% during calendar year benchmarking is required

• Used primarily (energy ≥ 50%) for industrial or agricultural processes

Every June 1 for commercial and residential buildings greater than 25,000 square feet. For 2023, MAI buildings have a deadline extension to December 1.

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

For benchmarking, any buildings not in compliance by the June 1st deadline may be charged a $2,000 penalty.

Noncompliance with building performance standards targets can result in steep fines. Learn more via Denver’s building performance standards forecasting calculator here.

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.

• Energize Denver Energy Benchmarking Program

• Energize Denver Ordinance

• Energize Denver Benchmarking Map

• Denver Building Performance Standards

• Denver Building Performance Standards Forecasting Calculator

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

Touchstone IQ for Buildings offers expert-led benchmarking and easy DIY tools for Denver’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.