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Achieving Compliance: Meeting NJ Clean Energy Act’s Benchmark Requirements

On May 23, 2018, Governor Murphy signed the New Jersey Clean Energy Act (P.L.2018, c.17). The Clean Energy Act takes several critical steps to improve and expand New Jersey’s renewable energy programs. In the push toward a more sustainable future, one key requirement under this legislation is the annual energy and water benchmarking for commercial buildings 25,000 square feet or larger. The law applies to a wide range of property types, including office buildings, retail spaces, multi-family residential properties (over a certain size), and warehouses.

Energy benchmarking is the process of measuring and reporting a building’s energy and water usage over time. This data is then compared to similar properties to evaluate performance. The program uses the EPA’s Energy Star Portfolio Manager, a trusted tool that calculates your property’s energy efficiency and assigns a performance score.

New Jersey’s mandate aims to identify opportunities for efficiency, lower energy costs, and reduce environmental impact. Regularly tracking energy and water usage can pinpoint areas where improvements are needed, which often leads to significant savings on energy bills. Moreover, energy efficiency contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with New Jersey’s broader sustainability goals. Transparency is another critical aspect of the mandate, as benchmarking data may be made publicly available to encourage accountability and competition for better performance.

Reporting Requirements

Owners and operators of commercial buildings over 25,000 square feet must report their energy and water usage annually.

How We Can Help

Complying with the requirements of New Jersey’s Clean Energy Act is a priority, and our team is ready to support you. We offer comprehensive energy benchmarking services, including:

  • Data Collection: We will work with your utility providers to gather accurate energy and water consumption data.
  • Benchmarking Submission: Using the Energy Star Portfolio Manager, we ensure your data is entered and submitted correctly and on time.
  • Performance Analysis: Beyond compliance, we provide detailed insights into your building’s energy performance and offer recommendations to boost efficiency.
  • Ongoing Support: Our team can assist with energy audits, retrofitting projects, and other initiatives to further improve your building’s sustainability.

Benefits of Benchmarking

Tracking your building’s energy and water usage provides valuable insights and advantages:

  • Performance Score: Get a 1-100 rating from the EPA, comparing your building to similar properties and tracking efficiency improvements.
  • Future Readiness: Stay ahead of evolving energy efficiency requirements seen in neighboring states.
  • Increased Property Value: Demonstrate efficient energy use to potential tenants or buyers.
  • Sustainability Goals: Support corporate ESG initiatives by optimizing resource use.

New Jersey certifies professionals through the NJ Clean Energy Learning Center to conduct benchmarking audits. Building owners can hire a certified benchmarker or choose to complete and submit the process independently. With decades of experience in environmental consulting and energy management, we are dedicated to supporting businesses in meeting state compliance requirements while enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Our expertise ensures accurate reporting and provides actionable insights to help property owners optimize energy usage and reduce costs.

The deadline for submission is July 1, 2025, preparation should begin now. Contact us today to learn more about our energy benchmarking services and how we can help your property meet New Jersey’s Clean Energy Act requirements.

For more information contact: Donna Switzer, Compliance Program Manager at donnas@ttienv.com or Shian Knouse, Environmental Associate 2 at shiank@ttienv.com