Atlanta Energy Benchmarking

Atlanta's Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance requires municipal buildings above 10,000 square feet, and commercial and multifamily buildings above 25,000 square feet to annually track whole-building energy and water use and report to the City. The phased implementation started in 2014.

The ordinance is part of the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability plan to reduce the City’s carbon footprint and create jobs. It is intended to spur a 20% reduction in energy consumption by commercial buildings by 2030, create more than 1000 jobs over the first several years and reduce emissions by 50% from 2013 levels by 2030.

If you own or manage municipal buildings above 10,000 square feet or commercial and residential buildings above 25,000 square feet, you must track and report your energy and water consumption according to the City’s compliance deadlines. Also, once every 10 years, your building will be required to undergo an energy audit.

Your building may qualify for an exemption from reporting if:

• The building did not have a temporary or permanent certificate of occupancy for the given year

• A demolition permit was issued and demolition of the building has commenced

• For multifamily housing only, if electricity data aggregation isn’t available and there is no master meter

• For commercial buildings only, if electricity data aggregation isn’t available, there is no master meter, and the owner isn’t responsible for operating or maintaining equipment

• Financial hardship

• No utility services

Every June 1 for commercial and residential buildings greater than 25,000 square feet.

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

Water is another utility that’s required for reporting.

If violators are more than 30 days late, they will receive a written warning. If the building remains non-compliant for another month, it will be required to pay a fine of $1,000, with additional fines of $1,000 for subsequent noncompliant years.

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.

• Atlanta Building Energy Efficiency Benchmarking Program

• Atlanta Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Ordinance

• Atlanta Energy Audit Requirement

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