The DC BEPS Cycle 1 ends in 2026, with CY 2026 utility data benchmarking due by April 1, 2027.
Building owners must implement projects before the end of 2025 to positively affect their utility data for the 2026 Operating Year. With equipment lead times, construction documentation and permitting processes, now is the ideal time to begin working toward compliance.
As the BEPS deadlines approach, Energy Practice Leader Laura Morder outlines critical next steps for both compliant and non-compliant buildings to ensure timely and effective action.
What do non-compliant buildings need to do by Q4 2026?
Based on the selected approved pathway for the property, there are four available options:
- Standard Target Pathway: Reach the average Energy Star score for the property type.
- Performance Pathway: 20% Energy Reduction as compared to the 2019 baseline.
- Prescriptive Pathway: Implement Efficiency Measures following a Set Submission Guideline per the DOEE BEPS Guidebook.
- Alternate Compliance Pathway: Another approved plan, as coordinated with DOEE during the early stages of Cycle 1.
What do compliant buildings need to do by Q4 2026?
Continue to track and report energy usage monthly through your Energy Star Portfolio Manager profile. Be sure to update changes in building occupancy, number of on-site workers, and operating hours as leasing adjustments occur. If you need assistance with your monthly energy reports, feel free to reach out to [email protected].
Click here to monitor program updates shared by the Council of the District of Columbia following the end of Cycle 1.
What projects should you implement?
Consider these key strategies to help reduce your property’s energy consumption:
- Revisit your energy audit recommendations for Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs) specific to your property. Prioritize projects that can be completed within the remainder of Cycle 1 to meet the required energy reduction for compliance and plan for others that can be deferred to Cycle 2. Tailor your approach based on your property’s unique needs and budget – some projects will have a lower upfront cost, while others offer greater anticipated reductions in Energy Use Intensity (EUI).
- Include Commissioning for any new equipment installed as part of ECM projects to ensure proper installation and operation in line with the original design intent.
- Consider Retro-Commissioning for existing systems. This process will test, verify, and evaluate existing equipment and systems to optimize performance, improve overall building operations, and reduce energy consumption.
Connect with us at [email protected] to work with our Operations & Energy Services team to determine the energy improvement project that aligns with your property.