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Navigating the Future: Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) in Washington DC

Washington DC BEPS Program

Washington DC has taken a significant step in addressing climate change with the implementation of Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS). As part of the Clean Energy DC Act of 2018, BEPS aims to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings, which account for over 70% of the city's emissions.

Understanding BEPS

The BEPS program is being rolled out in cycles, with increasingly stringent requirements to help the city achieve its climate goals. This comprehensive framework establishes minimum energy performance standards for buildings while providing various compliance pathways for property owners.

Affected Buildings

The program is implemented in phases:

  • BEPS-1 (current cycle): City-owned properties 10,000 sq ft and larger, and privately owned properties 50,000 sq ft and larger
  • BEPS-2 (starting January 1, 2027): Will include privately owned properties 25,000 sq ft and larger

Key Requirements for Property Owners and Managers

Performance Standards

Buildings must meet minimum energy performance levels based on their type:

  • Multifamily buildings: ENERGY STAR score of 66 or higher
  • Office buildings: ENERGY STAR score of 71 or higher

Compliance Pathways

If a building doesn't meet the standard, owners must choose a compliance pathway to improve energy efficiency:

  • Performance Pathway: Reduce energy usage by 20% by the end of the cycle
  • Other pathways as outlined in BEPS regulations

Impact of BEPS

Financial Considerations

  • Significant costs for upgrades: Some buildings may require investments of over $1 million
  • Funding challenges: Property owners are exploring various financing options

Operational Changes

Building operators must revise existing protocols, potentially including:

  • Deploying energy management systems
  • Optimizing HVAC operations
  • Upgrading lighting systems
  • Improving insulation

Challenges and Considerations

  • Varied Building Performance: Nearly 30% of new multifamily buildings may not comply in the first cycle
  • Economic Context: Increased borrowing costs and high vacancy rates pose challenges
  • Ongoing Compliance: Standards become more stringent with each cycle

Moving Forward

Property owners and managers in Washington DC must stay informed about BEPS requirements and plan strategically for compliance. This includes conducting energy audits, developing improvement plans, exploring financing options, and engaging with stakeholders about energy efficiency initiatives.

Learn more about similar building performance requirements in Boston with BERDO, in Denver with Energize Denver, and in New York City with Local Law 97.

Need help managing your BEPS compliance? Discover how Cosmos can help track your building's energy performance and ensure compliance with DC regulations.