Energy Management Plans: A CBPS Requirement That Can Save You Thousands
There is a new energy law in Washington, and it is changing how property owners save money.
Washington State’s Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) is a smart opportunity for building owners to reduce energy costs. The ‘way’ this works is you improve your building’s energy use. This reduces your energy costs, improves your buildings performance, and in the long term attracts quality tenants.
This applies whether you own a Tier 1 or Tier 2 building. You need an Energy Management Plan (EMP). It is mandatory under the CBPS. The process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, a strong EMP can turn compliance into long-term savings (as noted above).
Let’s break down what an Energy Management Plan is, why it matters, and how it helps you stay compliant while improving your bottom line.
What Is an Energy Management Plan And Why Do You Need One?
An Energy Management Plan (EMP) is a report that details the process how a building will monitor, manage, and improve energy use. Under the Washington Clean Buildings law, every Tier 1 and Tier 2 building must submit an EMP to stay in compliance.
Here’s what a compliant EMP must include:
- A summary of your building’s energy use and performance.
- Energy-saving goals and benchmarks.
- Plans for operations, maintenance, and occupant engagement.
- A long-term strategy to improve energy performance over time.
If your building falls under the CBPS, an EMP is legally required. The good news is a well-planned EMP will reveal energy waste, lower your utility bills, and help you avoid penalties.
Who Needs to Follow the Clean Buildings EMP Rules?
The CBPS applies to non-residential buildings in Washington State that are 20,000 square feet or larger. These buildings are divided into two categories:
Tier 1:
Buildings 50,000 square feet or more. These must comply now or face enforcement.
Tier 2:
Buildings between 20,000 – 49,999 square feet. These must begin compliance starting in 2025 and beyond.
If your building is in either group, you must create and submit a complete Energy Management Plan.
How an EMP Supports Long-Term Energy Savings
While EMPs are required for compliance, they’re also a powerful tool for reducing energy costs. Tracking energy use is the easiest way to start improving maintenance routines, which will reduce utility bills.
Here’s how:
- EMPs help identify areas where energy is being wasted. This includes things like outdated lighting, poor insulation, or HVAC issues.
- They prioritize upgrades that have the best return on investment.
- They create a roadmap that makes future improvements easier and more affordable.
An EMP also helps engage building occupants in energy-saving habits. This leads to more consistent performance and fewer surprises in your utility costs.
What To Include In Your Energy Management Plan For
To meet the CBPS EMP requirements in Washington, your plan needs to be complete, accurate, and tailored to your building. A rushed or vague plan may lead to delays or penalties. That’s why many building owners turn to EMP consulting for WA buildings.
Your Energy Management Plan should include:
- Benchmarking Data: A record of how your building’s energy use compares to similar buildings.
- Operation and Maintenance Strategy: Plans to keep systems running efficiently year-round.
- Staff Training and Engagement: Guidance for involving building staff and tenants in saving energy.
- Energy Use Goals: Clear, measurable goals to reduce energy use intensity (EUI).
- Planned Improvements: A list of current and future upgrades, with timelines and budgets.
Working with an expert can ensure your EMP meets all the Tier 1 and Tier 2 EMP requirements in WA without guesswork or wasted time.
Avoiding Common EMP Compliance Pitfalls
Creating an EMP sounds simple, but small mistakes can trgiger ongoing fines. The Washington State Department of Commerce reviews these plans carefully, and non-compliance will result in penalties.
Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Missing data or benchmarking errors.
- Vague or unrealistic energy goals.
- Failing to show how staff and occupants will be engaged.
- Using templates that don’t meet Washington’s specific rules.
EMP consulting for WA buildings helps avoid these issues by creating tailored, complete documentation from the start. Whether you’re creating your first plan or updating an existing one, expert help ensures you don’t miss anything important.
Turn Compliance Into Savings With Expert EMP Support
Smart building owners are using EMP requirements to optimize their energy strategy. The most effective strategies come fomr working with consultants who understand CBPS energy documentation in WA.
Benefits of expert EMP support:
- Reduced utility bills through targeted energy upgrades
- Fast-track documentation that meets all compliance rules
- Lower risk of rejection, delays, or fines
- Better energy planning for future projects
- Stronger return on investment for retrofits and equipment upgrades
Next Steps: Secure Your Energy Management Plan Now
The sooner you develop your EMP, the more time you have to make improvements and avoid last-minute stress.
Don’t make the mistake of waiting to the last minute and rushing. Act now, get it right, and revise with enough time so your compliance pays off.
CBPS Next Steps
CBPS is a tool for staying compliant, cutting costs, and planning for a greener future. With expert guidance, your EMP can go from a required document to a powerful energy savings strategy.
If you want help building a plan that works AND potentially getting the state to fund ALL your compliance costs, talk with our team. As of writing we’ve gotten 78 properties’ compliance fully funded by the state. See if your property is eligible for funding by scheduling a quick call with our team. The call is no-obligation, takes ten minutes, and will show if you can get your costs covered by the state.
