South Portland Energy Benchmarking

The City of South Portland in Maine had the following energy and water benchmarking laws for different large property types. However, please note that this program is currently suspended.

Fast facts:

  • UPDATE: In late 2024, the South Portland City Council decided to repeal the benchmarking ordinance. At this point in time, benchmarking requirements have been suspended for building owners and managers.

  • 5,000+ sq. ft. public city properties and 20,000+ sq. ft. commercial, industrial, and multifamily properties

Details

  • Under the Benchmarking Ordinance, covered property owners are required to track monthly energy and water use. Annually, property owners will be required to submit an Energy Performance Report to the City of South Portland through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.

  • The program is intended to enable more effective energy and climate protection planning by the City and others. In addition, it helps building owners as well as prospective buyers and tenants better understand the performance of participating buildings over time. Benchmarking is a market-based mechanism that results in greater energy and water use efficiency.

    Simply put, benchmarking is measuring a building's energy use over time. With this information, building owners can better understand how their building consumes energy relative to the performance of similar buildings. This comparison then helps to identify opportunities to make changes that will improve the efficiency and performance of the building.

  • If you own or manage a public city building of at least 5,000 square feet or any commercial or multifamily building of at least 20,000 square feet, you are required to comply.

  • The city requires building owners to report their energy and water usage annually via the ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager tool by May 15th.

  • 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.

  • The fines for non-compliance are up to $750 if you are late after 30 days, and an additional $750 every three months thereafter.

  • 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 South Portland’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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