Newton Energy Benchmarking

On December 16th, 2024, the Newton City Council approved a Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) to understand energy consumption in buildings throughout the City. This energy benchmarking ordinance, known as BERDO, now requires large residential and non-residential buildings with 20,000 square feet of gross floor area (GFA) and residential with 15 or more units to report energy use data.

The goal is to reduce Newton’s greenhouse gas emissions gradually, to net zero by 2050.

If you own or manage a public city building, or any commercial, multifamily, or industrial building of at least 20,000 square feet, you are required to comply. Multifamily units with at least 15 units are also in the program.

For 2025, only public city buildings and commercial buildings of at least 100,000 square feet need to comply. The remaining properties will need to comply starting in 2026.

The city requires building owners to report their energy and water usage annually via the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager tool by September 15th.

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

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.

• Newton Building Emissions and Reduction Ordinance (BERDO)

• Newton's Energy Benchmarking Building Emissions and Reduction Program

Newton properties will also need to comply with Massachusetts’ state energy benchmarking program. Learn more about Massachusetts’ requirements here.

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