Benchmarking 101: Introduction to Chicago’s Energy Benchmarking Ordinance

In September 2013, Mayor Emanuel and Chicago’s City Council adopted a building energy use benchmarking ordinance to raise awareness of energy performance through information and transparency, with the goal of unlocking energy and cost savings opportunities for businesses and residents.

Chicago’s Building Energy Use Benchmarking and Transparency Ordinance will solidify Chicago’s status as a hub for the growing sustainable economy by creating opportunities to improve citywide energy efficiency and accelerate the market for energy efficiency investments that will save money and reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emissions. The ordinance focuses on Chicago’s largest municipal, commercial, and residential buildings that are 50,000 square feet and larger.

In partnership with the City of Chicago, the Chicago Energy Benchmarking Working Group invites you to attend this session to learn more about the Energy Benchmarking Ordinance and answer questions about how this ordinance may impact your building or business.

Presenters:
Volunteer members of USGBC-Illinois. ASHRAE Illinois and AIA Chicago

Participants:
Building owners, managers, operators, service providers, and other stakeholders in the real estate and energy sectors.

Session Objectives:

1. Review energy benchmarking background and policy goals
2. Explain Chicago ordinance requirements (benchmarking, data verification, and reporting) and how to comply
3. Share information on free resources and assistance on energy benchmarking ordinance compliance and energy efficiency improvement

Learn more about the Chicago Energy Benchmarking Ordinance at www.cityofchicago.org/energybenchmarking.