Madison Energy Benchmarking

The City of Madison in Wisconsin has the following energy benchmarking and building performance laws for certain large properties.

Fast facts:

  • June 30th annual deadline, starting in 2024

  • 25,000+ sq. ft. non-residential commercial properties

  • Additional Requirements: Building Tune-Up report and results to every 4 years for non-residential commercial buildings, starting October 31, 2025 

Details

  • The program requires owners of large nonresidential commercial buildings to annually track their energy use through “energy benchmarking” and to tune up their building’s energy systems every four years. The program is focused on optimizing building operations and does not require installing new systems or replacing any functioning equipment.

  • The City of Madison is committed to reaching 100% renewable energy and net-zero carbon emissions for City operations by 2030 and community-wide by 2050. According to a 2015 greenhouse gas inventory, commercial buildings were responsible for 30% of community-wide greenhouse gas emissions. Improving energy efficiency in commercial buildings is a proven strategy for saving energy and reducing their carbon footprint. More than 40 other cities, counties, and states have established policies focused on improving energy efficiency in existing buildings.

  • If you own or manage any commercial building of at least 25,000 square feet, you are required to comply. There will be a 3-year phase-in for the benchmarking requirement, so only a portion of all buildings will be required to comply starting in 2024.

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

    • If your building is over 50% vacant and not leased.

  • The city 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.

  • 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.

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

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