Massachusetts Energy Benchmarking

The Department of Energy Resources established a program requiring large buildings across the Commonwealth to report energy usage on an annual basis. The requirement goes into effect on July 1, 2024, but DOER has an additional year (until July 1, 2025) to draft implementing regulations and establish the parameters of the reporting program. Once the program is up and running, the data will be made publicly available on DOER’s website on a building-by-building basis. The law requires reporting for buildings with at least 20,000 square feet of gross floor area, but DOER may lower that threshold by regulation.

Building-specific energy usage data collection of this type is widely seen as laying the groundwork for future building decarbonization efforts, including the establishment of building emissions performance standards

If you own or manage a commercial, industrial, or multifamily building of at least 20,000 square feet, you are required to comply. The State may lower the square footage threshold in the future.

The state 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.

However, different than other local benchmarking programs, the State requires Utility Providers of electric, gas, and steam to report the information they have on behalf of Building Owners, and requires Building Owners to report any additional Energy Usage, like fuel oil, propane, wood, or on-site solar generation.

The fines for non-compliance are up to $150 per day.

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.

Learn about the Massachusetts’ bill here:

• Massachusetts’ Energy Benchmarking Program

• Massachusetts' Energy Benchmarking House Bill No. 5060

• Massachusetts’ Large Building Energy Usage Ordinance

Certain cities in Massachusetts have their own energy benchmarking programs that will require additional compliance. Learn more about these specific city requirements below:

• Boston

• Cambridge

• Chelsea

• Lexington

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