Energize Denver:
Guide to Building Energy Performance Requirements

Denver's Energize program is a big shift in the city's approach to building energy efficiency and climate action. As part of Denver's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this ordinance requires commercial and multifamily buildings over 25,000 square feet to dramatically reduce their energy usage and carbon emissions by 2030.

For property managers and building owners, compliance with Energize Denver is mandatory. The program establishes specific performance targets that buildings must meet, with interim goals in 2024 and 2027, leading to final targets in 2030. These targets are designed to reduce energy waste and transition buildings away from fossil fuels.

Core Requirements

The core requirements of Energize Denver focus on two main areas:

• Energy performance
• Electrification

Buildings must achieve a 30% reduction in energy usage by 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline. Additionally, the program mandates partial building electrification through the replacement of gas-powered space and water heating systems with electric alternatives at the end of their useful life.

Implementation Steps

• Establishing their building's current energy baseline
• Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency improvements
• Creating a roadmap for electrification
• Implementing energy management systems to track progress

While the program's requirements may seem daunting, they are opportunities for significant cost savings through reduced energy consumption. Modern building management systems and energy monitoring tools, like Cosmos, can help property managers track their progress and identify areas for improvement.

The financial implications of non-compliance are substantial. Buildings that fail to meet the requirements face penalties of up to $2,000 per day. However, the city offers various resources and incentives to help buildings achieve compliance, including technical assistance and financial support through programs like PACE financing.

Benefits of Compliance

• Lower operating costs through reduced energy consumption
• Increased property value
• Enhanced tenant satisfaction and retention
• Improved building performance and comfort
• Competitive advantage in the market

Read more about similar energy efficiency requirements in New York City: Local Law 84 and Local Law 97.

Looking to streamline your Energize Denver compliance? Learn how Cosmos can help automate your energy tracking and reporting.