FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Straight answers on Building Performance Standards, utility incentives, energy audits, and what this work actually costs. Don't see your question? Just ask.
Who has to comply with Washington's Clean Buildings Performance Standard?
Washington's Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) applies to most commercial and multifamily buildings 50,000 square feet and larger. Tier 1 compliance is staggered by size: buildings over 220,000 sq ft were due June 1, 2026, 90,000–220,000 sq ft are due June 1, 2027, and 50,000–90,000 sq ft June 1, 2028. Tier 2 buildings (20,000–50,000 sq ft, plus multifamily over 20,000 sq ft) begin reporting July 1, 2027.
When does Oregon's building performance standard take effect?
Oregon's commercial building performance standard begins with annual benchmarking through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. The first energy performance compliance deadlines start in 2028 for the largest buildings. Building owners should be benchmarking now to establish baselines and identify cost-effective upgrades before the deadline.
What is an ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit?
An ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit is a comprehensive, on-site assessment of a building's energy systems. It identifies specific energy conservation measures with estimated costs, savings, and paybacks. Level 2 audits are required for compliance with most state Building Performance Standards and for many utility incentive programs.
How does Idaho Power's custom incentive program work?
Idaho Power runs two distinct programs. Its detailed energy assessment reimburses commercial and industrial customers 75% of the audit cost, up to $12,500, for a qualifying ASHRAE Level 2 audit (eligible rate schedules 9P, 19P, and special contracts; 9S case-by-case). Separately, its custom project incentive covers the lesser of $0.20 per kWh saved per year or 70% of eligible project cost for the efficiency upgrades the audit identifies. The audit must be performed by a qualified energy professional and submitted through Idaho Power's process.
How much does a commercial energy audit cost?
Commercial energy audits typically run about $0.05 to $0.50 per square foot, or roughly $2,500 to $15,000 for many mid-sized buildings, depending on the ASHRAE audit level, building size, and system complexity. An ASHRAE Level 2 audit, which most compliance and utility incentive programs require, generally falls in the middle of that range. Incentives often offset much of the cost: Idaho Power reimburses 75% of a detailed assessment (up to $12,500), and Washington and Oregon offer early-adopter incentives that help cover audit-identified measures.
What are Oregon's Building Performance Standard deadlines?
Oregon's Building Performance Standard (HB 3409) applies energy performance targets to commercial and hotel/motel buildings 35,000 square feet and larger. Tier 1 compliance deadlines are staggered by size: 200,000+ sq ft by June 1, 2028, 90,000 to 199,999 sq ft by June 1, 2029, and 35,000 to 89,999 sq ft by June 1, 2030. Smaller Tier 2 buildings begin data reporting July 1, 2028.
Do I have to benchmark in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager?
In most cases, yes. ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager benchmarking is the foundational first step for nearly every building performance standard, including Washington and Oregon, and for many utility incentive programs. It uses at least 12 months of utility data to produce a weather-normalized Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and, where eligible, a 1 to 100 ENERGY STAR score, which together determine your compliance gap and the right path forward.
Do you serve buildings outside Washington, Oregon, and Idaho?
Yes. The compliance practice is focused on Washington, Oregon, and Idaho because that is where the most active regulatory and incentive opportunities are right now. Energy auditing, forecasting, and ongoing advisory work is offered across the western United States including Utah, Nevada, and California on a case-by-case basis.
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