The District of Columbia has been using benchmarking data for nearly a decade to help understand and quantify how both private and District-owned buildings use energy and water. The results are disclosed annually and can be found on the District’s interactive benchmarking map. Guidance on using the map can be found here.
Additionally, the District’s Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) use energy benchmarking data as a baseline and establish minimum energy performance thresholds. Benchmarking is essential in identifying the level of action potentially required under BEPS.
To help you avoid common errors and interpret the information your annual benchmarking data can tell you, as well as navigate the District’s new third-party verification requirement, check out our resources below.
*Update: The District of Columbia Council (Council) passed emergency legislation to extend the District’s Benchmarking and Third-Party Data Verification deadlines for reporting 2023 data from April 1, 2024 to July 1, 2024. This extension is applies to this current cycle only. The next annual benchmarking deadline for 2024 data is April 1, 2025, and third-party verification is on a 3 year cycle.
Third-Party Benchmarking Data Verifier Scope Of Work
To support you as you navigate data verification compliance, the Hub has created a sample scope of work and additional guidance on how to use the resource and navigate the process, developed with DOEE input.
An Overview of the DC Benchmarking Requirements
Learn what is required and the process for doing so.
A Commercial Real Estate Guide to Common Errors in DC Energy Benchmarking
Avoid common mistakes and get accurate data about the performance of your building.
Understanding Energy Benchmarking
Get the facts on key metrics and learn how to interpret the data.