Ontario Energy Benchmarking

The Province of Ontario has the following energy and water benchmarking laws for particular large property types.

Fast facts:

  • July 1st annual deadline

  • 50,000+ sq. ft. commercial and multifamily properties

  • Additional Requirements: Third Party Data Verification for buildings 100,000+ sq. ft. during the first year of reporting, then every subsequent five years

  • Owners of commercial, industrial, multi-unit residential, and other building types that are 50,000 square feet and larger are required to report their building's energy and water consumption annually to the Province of Ontario, Ministry of Energy, by July 1st of the year.

  • Energy and water usage can represent some of the largest operating costs in your building. Ontario’s Energy and Water Reporting and Benchmarking (EWRB) initiative can help you:

    • Save money by tracking usage

    • Identify energy and water efficiency opportunities

    • Compare your energy and water usage to similar buildings

  • If you own or manage any commercial or multi-family building of at least 50,000 square feet, you are required to comply.

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

    • At any time during that year, any owner of the property is an insolvent person, as defined in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada).

    • At any time during that year, the property is subject to,

      • a tax arrears certificate that has been registered against the property,

      • a power of sale or foreclosure under a mortgage, or

      • a writ of execution.

    • The property is newly constructed, and a certificate for the occupancy of the property is issued in that year.

  • The city requires building owners to report their energy and water usage annually via the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager tool by July 1st.

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

    Water is another utility required for reporting.

  • 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 Ontario’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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