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 proposing 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:
- August 10, 2023 - Proposed Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) Policy Guides and Emissions Targets
- August 9, 2023 - New Financial Incentives for Decarbonization Factsheet
- June 8, 2023 - Mayor Harrell Introduces New Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions 27% from Existing Buildings
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June 8, 2023 – State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Determination Issued - The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) has issued a Determination of Non-Significance under SEPA (no Environmental Impact Statement required) for the proposed Building Emissions Performance Standard. More information:
- Notice of Determination of Non-Significance
- Analysis & Decision for SEPA Threshold Determination
- SEPA Checklist
- SEPA Checklist Attachments:
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.