Maryland is moving forward with major energy efficiency initiatives, and one of the most significant is the Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) Benchmarking Program. As part of the Maryland Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, this program is designed to help the state meet its ambitious climate goals by reducing energy consumption and lowering carbon emissions in commercial and multifamily buildings.
For building owners and property managers, these changes bring new compliance requirements – but also opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and access financial incentives. At EMAT Audit Services, we specialize in energy audits and compliance assistance, helping businesses navigate these new regulations with ease.
What is the BEPS Benchmarking Program?
The BEPS Program, managed by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), requires large buildings – 35,000 square feet and above – to track and report their energy usage annually. The goal is to create measurable improvements in energy efficiency by setting performance-based benchmarks for buildings. Those that fail to meet the standards will need to implement energy-saving measures to stay compliant.
What Changes Are Coming?
Annual Energy Benchmarking is Mandatory: Building owners must track and report their energy usage through the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. This data will be used to assess a building’s performance and determine compliance with the BEPS targets.
Performance-Based Compliance Requirements: Rather than applying a single standard to all buildings, BEPS sets customized efficiency targets based on building type. Buildings that don’t meet the required energy performance levels will need to improve efficiency through operational changes, equipment upgrades, or renewable energy integration.
Phased Implementation Timeline: Compliance deadlines will be rolled out in phases, allowing building owners time to implement necessary energy improvements. While the specifics depend on building size and classification, property owners should start preparing now to avoid last-minute challenges.
Financial Incentives & Penalties: Non-compliance could lead to financial penalties or mandatory energy efficiency upgrades. However, Maryland offers grants, rebates, and low-interest financing options to support property owners in making the necessary improvements.
How EMAT Audit Services Can Help
Implementing the new BEPS requirements can be complex, but EMAT Audit Services is here to help. With extensive experience in energy audits, benchmarking, and compliance consulting, we ensure that building owners understand their energy performance and take the right steps to meet Maryland’s new efficiency standards.
We provide:
✅ Comprehensive energy audits to assess current building performance
✅ Benchmarking assistance using ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
✅ Customized compliance strategies to help owners meet BEPS requirements
✅ Guidance on financial incentives and energy efficiency upgrades
The transition to BEPS compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Contact EMAT Audit Services today to schedule an energy audit and ensure your building is on track to meet Maryland’s evolving energy standards.