Montreal Energy Benchmarking

To become carbon neutral by 2050, Montréal must radically reduce GHGs produced by buildings that consume large quantities of energy. To achieve this goal, the city has introduced a by-law that requires owners of large buildings to disclose the sources and amounts of energy their buildings use.

The By-law concerning greenhouse gas emission disclosures and ratings of large buildings came into force on September 27, 2021. This by-law meets one of the objectives of the Climate Plan: To measure how much fossil fuels buildings use in order to reduce their consumption.

The disclosure and rating system for large buildings, and the future integration of performance thresholds as foreseen in the Climate Plan 2020-2030, will have important benefits for building owners and Montréal residents.

This system will:

• Reduce buildings’ energy costs by improving energy consumption.

• Show that Montréal building owners are leaders in energy transition, a major competitive advantage in the real estate sector.

• Attract and retain tenants concerned about their energy bills and the environment.

If you own or manage any commercial building of at least 2,000 square meters or any multifamily with at least 25 units, you are required to comply. In 2023, only commercial properties that are at least 5,000 sq. M. and multifamily properties with at least 50 units are required to comply.

The city requires building owners to report their energy usage annually via the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager tool by June 30th.

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

The fines for not complying are as follows:

• In the case of a natural person:

  • for a first offense, to a fine of $500;

  • for a second offense, to a fine of $1,000;

  • for each additional offense, to a fine of $2,000;

• In the case of a legal person:

  • for a first offense, to a fine of $1,000;

  • for a second offense, to a fine of $2,000;

  • for each additional offense, a fine of $4,000.

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.

• Montreal Greenhouse Gas Emission Disclosures and Ratings of Large Buildings Program

• Montreal Energy Benchmarking Greenhouse Gas Emission Disclosures and Ratings By-Law

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