San Francisco Energy Benchmarking

This ordinance was created to track and publish energy usage data of existing nonresidential buildings through benchmarking. Nonresidential buildings are required to undergo standardized energy audits every five years, and owners must measure their building’s energy usage and submit the data to the City. This information is then made public so building owners and potential buyers can quickly see whether a building is operating efficiently relative to others of similar age and size. A related ordinance also requires the largest commercial buildings in San Francisco to obtain 100% renewable energy.

This ordinance was created to improve energy efficiency of the built environment. Energy benchmarking and auditing will help to greatly reduce greenhouse emissions from buildings, which will also lead to lower business operating costs and more affordable housing. Energy efficiency is a priority for San Francisco as it helps the local economy by reducing operating costs, supporting jobs developing and deploying innovative technologies, conserving resources, and enhancing electricity reliability.

Owners of nonresidential buildings larger than 10,000 square feet and multifamily buildings larger than 50,000 square feet are required to comply.

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

• New buildings with a Certificate of Occupancy dated 2 years prior to the benchmarking deadline.

• Buildings with less than one full-time occupant.

The deadline for compliance is May 1 for all buildings.

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

Owners of buildings larger than 50,000 square feet are subject to $100/day fines for each day of noncompliance (up to a maximum of 25 days). Owners of buildings smaller than 50,000 square feet are subject to a $50/day fine (up to a maximum of 25 days).

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.

San Francisco large properties are exempt from California’s benchmarking laws and will only need to report to the City. Learn more about California’s exempted local benchmarking ordinances here.

• San Francisco Energy Ordinance Program

• San Francisco’s Existing Buildings Energy Ordinance

• San Francisco Benchmarking Compliance Lookup

• San Francisco Benchmarking Disclosure Map

• San Francisco Energy Audit Requirement

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