New Orleans Enacts Urgent Energy Benchmarking Rules for Buildings

UPDATE: New Orleans is taking decisive action against climate change with the introduction of mandatory energy benchmarking for large buildings. The Office of Resilience & Sustainability (ORS) has just released a list of properties that will be impacted by the New Orleans Building Energy Benchmarking Ordinance, which requires buildings over 20,000 square feet to report their energy consumption.

This groundbreaking ordinance is part of New Orleans’ broader strategy to combat climate change and improve energy efficiency. Property owners can now access the benchmarking Covered Property List (CPL) to determine if their building is subject to these new requirements. It is crucial for owners to verify their property’s status to avoid potential penalties.

The city has scheduled two informative webinars to help property owners navigate these new regulations. The first session will take place on November 12 from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a second session on November 18 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Interested individuals can register through the CPL page to gain valuable insights into compliance and the ordinance’s implications.

Beginning in 2026, buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet will be required to participate in this energy benchmarking program, while properties of 20,000 square feet and above will follow suit in 2027. Participation will be facilitated through the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, a recognized tool for tracking and benchmarking energy usage.

While there is an initial grace period for compliance, property owners should be aware that ongoing non-compliance could lead to fines reaching up to $3,000. However, the city has announced that penalties will be waived during the first year of compliance for properties newly required to adhere to these standards, aiming to foster a smooth transition.

This initiative not only aims to enhance energy efficiency in New Orleans but also underscores the city’s commitment to sustainability and climate action. As the world grapples with rising temperatures and environmental challenges, local measures like these serve as a crucial step toward a more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for updates as the implementation of this ordinance progresses, and ensure your property is compliant to avoid any penalties. The time to act is now!