Resources/Regulations
expandingCity of Seattle

Seattle Energy Benchmarking

Seattle Building Energy Benchmarking and Reporting Program

Overview

Applies To
Non-residential and multifamily buildings over 20,000 sqft (excluding parking)
Building Size Threshold
20,000 sqft
Building Types
Commercial, multifamily residential, institutional
Effective Date
2010
Jurisdiction
City of Seattle
State
Washington
Current Status

Benchmarking active since 2010. Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) being implemented with first deadlines in 2027 for largest buildings. Penalties for BEPS significantly higher than benchmarking.

Key Deadlines

June 1, 2026

Annual benchmarking report due for 2025 calendar year data

October 1, 2027

First Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) reporting deadline for buildings 220,000+ sqft

Penalties & Enforcement

Penalty

$2,000-$4,000/year (benchmarking); up to $10/sqft (BEPS)

Benchmarking: $2,000-$4,000 annually based on building size; $500 for inaccurate reports. Future BEPS: up to $10/sqft for emissions non-compliance

Compliance Requirements

Annual energy benchmarking via ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
Share benchmarking data with City of Seattle by June 1
Future: Meet greenhouse gas emissions intensity targets (BEPS starting 2027)

Data Required

12 months of energy consumption data (electricity, gas, oil, steam)
Building gross floor area (excluding parking)
Building use type and occupancy

How to Submit

Submission Method

ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager shared with City of Seattle

Submission Format

ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager online platform

Official Resources

Official City of Seattle Resource
https://www.seattle.gov/environment/climate-change/buildings-and-energy/energy-benchmarking

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