Building Emissions Performance Standards
Building performance standards (BPS) are energy or emissions targets that existing buildings must meet over time to improve energy efficiency and reduce climate impacts. While Washington State's energy performance standards are an important start, they will not be enough to meet Seattle's climate goals and a move to a cleaner energy future. With extensive stakeholder engagement in 2022 and on-going development in 2023, OSE is drafting legislation to enact a Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) policy for existing commercial and multifamily buildings larger than 20,000 square feet. Seattle's BEPS policy is projected to reduce building emissions 27% by 2050, making it the most impactful climate action Seattle can take now.
News & Updates:
- March 25, 2023 - Seattle Clean Buildings Accelerator recruiting for Light Coaching Cohort starting in May. All City Light customers eligible. Info sessions on April 6, 20 and May 2. Register and learn more >
- March 23, 2023 webinar slides and recording available: Estimating Your Building’s Emissions and Draft Targets for the Proposed Seattle Building Emissions Performance Standards (BEPS)
- March 10, 2023 - MLK Labor Passes Resolution in Support of Proposed Building Emissions Performance Standard
- The policy is estimated to create up to 270 new well-paying jobs annually. Read the resolution >
- February 18, 2023 - Proposed Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) Policy Guides and Emissions Targets
Learn More:
Building Emissions Performance Standards Policy Development
Learn why Seattle is developing a building emissions performance standards policy, keep up to date on the latest policy timeline and news, and learn how to share your views.
Clean Buildings for Washington
The Clean Buildings for Washington law, being implemented by the Washington State Department of Commerce, applies to all commercial buildings larger than 50,000 SF and includes an energy performance standard. Learn more and find resources to comply.
Seattle Clean Buildings Accelerator
The Accelerator supports building owners and managers to meet the State of WA Clean Buildings requirements and to reduce building emissions, with a priority on those buildings in or serving frontline and BIPOC communities. Learn about the educational and light coaching support.