Building Emissions Performance Standard

Seattle has adopted a new Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) Policy, unanimously approved by City Council and signed by Mayor Harrell on December 13, 2023. Building performance standards are energy or emissions targets that existing buildings must meet over time to improve energy efficiency and reduce climate impacts. Seattle's BEPS policy was developed over two years of extensive stakeholder engagement. The regulation applies to existing commercial and multifamily buildings larger than 20,000 square feet and is projected to reduce building emissions 27% by 2050, making it one of the most impactful climate actions for Seattle.

News & Updates: 

• August 27, 2024 - City of Seattle awarded $17.2 million to implement Building Emissions Performance Standard, support multifamily and commercial buildings reduce climate pollution Learn more >
• July 8, 2024 - BEPS Rulemaking Process and Timeline Announced. Learn more >  
• May 28, 2024 - Got BEPS Questions? Browse a dozen FAQs about exemptions for electric buildings, using RNG, district energy deductions, new construction and more. Check them out >
• Feb 15, 2024 - Webinar recording and handouts: "Seattle’s Brand-New Building Emissions Performance Standard: What You Need to Know Now." Presented by OSE and hosted by the Lighting Design lab on Feb. 1st. Watch Recording or View Slides
• Jan 5, 2024 - Newly Adopted Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) Policy Guides and Emissions Targets
  • Introduction to Seattle BEPS Policy 
  • Seattle BEPS: Guide to New Policy 
  • Seattle BEPS: GHGI Targets & Emissions Factors 
  • The adopted legislation may be read here. For additional background read the BEPS Director's Report.