Vancouver Energy Benchmarking

The City of Vancouver in the province of British Columbia has the following energy benchmarking laws for specific large property types.

Fast facts:

  • June 1st annual deadline, starting 2024

  • 50,000+ sq. ft. commercial and multifamily properties, starting with properties ≥100,000 sq. ft. in 2024

  • Initial reporting date by property type:

    • Covered Commercial Properties ≥100,000 sq. ft. (9,290 metres) — June 1, 2024

    • Covered Commercial Properties ≥50,000 sq. ft. (4,645 sq. metres) — June 1, 2025

    • Covered Multifamily Properties ≥100,000 sq. ft. (9,290 sq. metres) — June 1, 2025

    • Covered Multifamily Properties ≥50,000 sq. ft. (4,645 sq. metres) — June 1, 2026

  • Additional Requirements: Building Performance Standard starting in 2027

Details

  • This By-law establishes greenhouse gas emission and heat energy intensity limits for large existing buildings, to help reduce carbon pollution from buildings by 50% by 2030 and 100% before 2050.

  • As part of the Climate Emergency Action Plan (CEAP), City staff are tackling these emissions with a first-of-its-kind regulation in Canada: a hard cap on carbon pollution from commercial buildings that will lower over time. This means these buildings will produce fewer climate emissions by switching to renewable energy and technology to future-proof them to our changing climate.

  • If you own or manage any commercial or multifamily building that is at least 50,000 square feet, you are required to comply. This program does not start until 2024.

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

  • 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.

  • British Columbia also has a voluntary energy benchmarking program. Learn more about British Columbia’s program here.

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