Whole-Building Energy Data Campaign

Earlier this year, EPA launched its Whole-Building Energy Data campaign. This campaign seeks to assist building owners in making the case to utilities about the need for access to accurate whole-building energy data for multitenant buildings. The first part of the campaign—gathering input from building owners and others on where they need the data most and why—is complete with nearly 350 responses received! We are now analyzing data and identifying a list of “priority utilities,” and will begin reaching out to these utilities in early fall to request meetings with EPA and building owners.

Portfolio Manager Data Explorer™

EPA recently added 2022 data to the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager Data Explorer. This interactive tool can be used by anyone to see performance trends of buildings benchmarked in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and features filters to see different performance metrics for different groups of buildings. Some policymakers are using the tool to understand the performance of actual buildings where representative data isn’t otherwise available.

National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building (ZEB)

The U.S. Department of Energy recently finalized the National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building (ZEB). The national definition, which was developed in close consultation with EPA’s ENERGY STAR team, defines a ZEB as one that:

1.    Is highly energy efficient.

2.    Does not emit greenhouse gases directly from energy use.

3.    Is powered solely by clean energy.

Read the definition in detail here. While this version of the definition is focused on operational emissions, future versions may address embodied carbon and refrigerant management.

The definition is just that, a definition. As such, it is only a framework or guidance, with its impact determined by how it is used and by whom. But the goal behind the definition is to offer a standardized, consistent, and measurable set of criteria for others to use in their programs and policies.

Contact MEP today for assistance with your ENERGY STAR, LEED, Energy Audit and M-E-P Engineering Design needs! We are EPA-awarded ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year and Sustained Excellence Partner of the Year for 9 consecutive years and counting. www.mep-llc.com