Two buildings side by side can differ in energy usage by huge amounts. One building can use twice as much energy as another of similiar size and features. Of course, the energy usage also has a price tag attached to it, which then affects the building value, because ROI is linked to overhead, energy costs and maintenance. An inefficient, high energy use building is worth less overall than a very high energy efficient building.
In addition, there are other dynamics at work such as employee comfort, sick days, and productivity issues that are created by a workplace that is full of problems such as cold and hot spots, poor lighting, and insufficient daylight, as well as chemical exposure, just to name a few.
MANY STATES AND COUNTRIES NOW REQUIRE BUILDING BENCHMARKING
Many states and coutries now require energy benchmarking as part of the selling or purchase process for a building.
As one example, California law (AB 1103) now requires the disclosure of an energy performance benchmarking score prior to selling, refinancing or leasing certain whole buildings.
A seasoned investor will check out the energy use of a building before contemplating a purchase and compare buildings side by side to see which one offers the most energy efficiency, and thus, the lowest energy cost overall, per square foot.
BENCHMARKING IS JUST THE BEGINNING
Getting your building's benchmarking score is just the beginning. Set targets for improvement: estimating the actual amount of energy savings needed to reach a higher score, which low-/no-cost or capital upgrades might produce various magnitudes of savings, which utility incentive programs could help identify or finance those improvements, etc. It's not about what your building's score is today—it's about what you want that score to be and how to get it there!
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Energy Benchmarking Commercial Buildings Saves Owners Money And Energy; It Is Now Required By Law In California (AB 1103)
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