Cambridge Energy Benchmarking

Cambridge's Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) requires government buildings above 10,000 square feet, commercial buildings above 25,000 square feet, and residential buildings with at least 50 units to annually track whole-building energy and water use and report to the City.

The Ordinance is intended to reduce Cambridge’s greenhouse gas emissions, 80% of which originate with buildings. BEUDO is a key part of several Cambridge sustainability-related initiatives intended to bring the City closer to achieving net-zero emissions. This Ordinance also authorizes the collection of energy usage data in order to enable more effective energy and climate protection planning by the City and others.

If you own or manage government buildings above 10,000 square feet, commercial buildings above 25,000 square feet, and/or residential buildings with at least 50 units, you must track and report your energy consumption according to the City’s compliance deadlines.

Your building may qualify for an exemption from reporting if:

• The building did not have a temporary or permanent certificate of occupancy for the given year

• A demolition permit was issued and demolition of the building has commenced

• For multifamily housing only, if electricity data aggregation isn’t available and there is no master meter

• For commercial buildings only, if electricity data aggregation isn’t available, there is no master meter, and the owner isn’t responsible for operating or maintaining equipment

• Financial hardship

• No utility services

Every May 1 for commercial buildings greater than 25,000 square feet and residential buildings with at least 50 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.

The first instance of a violation will result in a warning, subsequent violations will receive fines of $300 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.

• Cambridge Building Energy Benchmarking Program

• Cambridge’s Building Energy Use Discolor Ordinance (BEUDO)

Cambridge 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 Cambridge’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.