Learn at Lunch: Building Performance Standards

Learn about the recently enacted City of Seattle's Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) and its implications for your current building portfolio.
This policy introduces new reporting requirements and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets for existing commercial and multifamily buildings exceeding 20,000 square feet. These targets will progressively intensify, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. This policy is projected to achieve a 27% reduction in building-related emissions City-wide compared to the 2008 baseline.
The compliance timeline initiates with data and emissions reporting obligations spanning 2027-2030. Emissions targets must be met by 2031-2035 and later deadlines that span five-year intervals until net-zero is met by 2041-50, depending on building size and type. Priority is given to the largest buildings, and the policy accommodates a diverse range of building characteristics, including uses, sizes, types, ownerships, ages, and systems. Special provisions have been made for affordable and low-income housing to ensure inclusivity. This legislation is the culmination of over two years of collaborative efforts, involving technical experts and building owners, notably the HDC Building Emissions Performance Task Force, which has subsequently launched the Decarbonize Affordable Housing Now (DAHN) program, an initiative aiming to tackle the urgent need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and fostering resilience in affordable housing.
Following the passage of the legislation, the Office of Sustainability and the Environment (OSE) has commenced due diligence for seamless implementation. Their focus includes expanding owner support and securing financial incentives and conducting the required public process to develop the Director’s Rule, which will kick off by mid-2024. Join us to delve deeper into the rulemaking and implementation process and explore collaborative opportunities within the HDC DAHN program. Presenters include:
Nicole Ballinger, Buildings and Energy Strategic Advisor from the Office of Sustainability and Environment
Amy Fowler, Climate & Buildings Support Program Advisor from the Office of Sustainability and Environment
Michael Arndt, RDH Building Science
Alistair Jackson, O'Brien 360