BERDO, short for Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance, is a law enacted by the City of Boston that requires owners of large buildings to annually report their energy and water usage data. This information is then made public, allowing building owners and potential buyers to see how performance compares to buildings of similar size and age. This process is known as energy benchmarking. Additionally, large buildings must gradually reduce their greenhouse gas emissions over time.

The purpose of BERDO is to encourage efficient building management, reduce emissions of air pollutants from energy production, and stimulate a growing green economy. Since buildings account for nearly 70% of greenhouse gas emissions here, this initiative is a key part of Boston’s mission to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

If you own or manage commercial buildings above 20,000 square feet or residential buildings with at least 15 units, you must track and report your energy and water consumption according to the City’s compliance deadlines.

Third-party verification of buildings is required for the first year of reporting under BERDO 2.0. If third-party verification was completed in 2022, it is not required in 2023. Touchstone IQ is an approved data verifier for BERDO. Please contact us if you would like assistance.

Buildings are also required to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by a set amount every 4 years, until they achieve net-zero emissions.

Every May 15th for commercial buildings greater than 20,000 square feet and residential buildings with at least 15 units.

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

Water is another utility that is required for reporting.

Failure to comply with the benchmarking ordinance will result in fines ranging from $150-$300 per violation, based on the size and type of building. Fines can be issued per day, with maximum fines of $3000 per year.

• Non-residential buildings 35,000 square feet or more - $300 per violation

• Non-residential buildings 20,000-34,999 square feet - $150 per violation

• Residential buildings with 35+ units - $300 per violation

• Residential buildings with 15-34 units - $150 per violation

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

Third-party verification of buildings is required for the first year of reporting under BERDO 2.0. If third-party verification was completed in 2022, it is not required in 2023. Touchstone IQ is an approved data verifier for BERDO. Please contact us if you would like assistance.

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.

• Boston Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Benchmarking Program

• Boston’s Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO)

• Boston BERDO BPS Emissions Calculator

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