Minnesota Energy Benchmarking

The Minnesota Department of Commerce is preparing for the implementation of a statewide building energy benchmarking program.

Additional information about this program can be found in Minnesota Laws 2023 Chapter 60, Article Section 34.

The Department of Commerce is responsible for establishing and maintaining a building energy benchmarking program. The purpose of the program is to:

• make a building's owners, tenants, and potential tenants aware of (i) the building's energy consumption levels and patterns, and (ii) how the building's energy use compares with that of similar buildings and/or a reference performance level (such as a building energy code) ; and

• enhance the likelihood that an owner adopts energy conservation measures in the owner's building as a way to reduce energy use, operating costs, and greenhouse gas emissions.

The building energy benchmarking program applies to buildings in the following locations:

• Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties; and

• Any city outside the metropolitan area with a population of over 50,000 residents that has one or more buildings with a square footage of 50,000 sq ft or more.

For purposes of the program, properties are classified as follows:

• Class 1 properties (100,000 sq ft and above) in the above locations which must start reporting energy use data by June 1, 2025.

• Class 2 properties (50,000 sq ft – 99,999 sq ft) in the above locations which must start reporting energy use data by June 1, 2026.

The statute provides some exemptions from the benchmarking requirements for specific building types, including multifamily buildings with fewer than 5 units, manufacturing and agricultural buildings, and other limited situations.

Energy benchmarking has been required for publicly-owned buildings in Minnesota since 2004. In addition, some local government units have also enacted building energy benchmarking requirements. Buildings subject to existing benchmarking requirements by the state, a city, or other political subdivision may continue to follow those requirements if they are equivalent to or more stringent than the Statewide Building Energy Use Benchmarking program.

Every June 1 for commercial and multi-family properties 50,000+ sq. ft. with more than 5 units.

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.

• Minnesota Energy Benchmarking Program

• Minnesota’s Energy Benchmarking Ordinance

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