Indianapolis & Marion County Energy Benchmarking

In collaboration with stakeholders from across the city, the Office of Sustainability developed a local Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance passed by the Indianapolis City-County Council in July of 2021.

Indy's benchmarking program, referred to as Thriving Buildings, gives organizations the opportunity to benchmark their energy and water data to identify ways to save money on utility costs while improving air quality for Indianapolis residents. As part of Thrive Indianapolis, the City of Indianapolis is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Buildings in Indianapolis account for 66% of community-wide greenhouse gas emissions. Maximizing the efficiency of how buildings use energy and water is a critical step in efforts to ensure that Indianapolis remains a beautiful and competitive community.

If you own or manage a public city building that is at least 25,000 square feet, or any commercial or multifamily 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:

• A wrecking permit for the entire building was issued, demolition work has begun, and legal occupancy of the building was no longer possible prior to the end of that year;

• The covered city property did not receive energy or water utility services for at least 30 days during that year;

• The covered city property had an average physical occupancy rate of less than 50 percent over the course of that year; or

• Due to special circumstances unique to the covered city property, strict compliance with provisions of this chapter would not be in the public interest.

The city requires building owners to report their energy and water 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.

Water is another utility required for reporting.

The failure by owner to make a benchmarking submission as required by this chapter shall constitute a violation of the Code. An owner's first and second violations shall be subject to an admission of violation and payment of the designated civil penalty.

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.

• Indianapolis Thriving Buildings Energy Benchmarking Program

• Indianapolis' Energy Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance

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