Clean Buildings Means Big Savings – But Only If You Act in Time
The Washington Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) includes major cash incentives to help building owners meet energy goals. The only catch? Funding is limited and deadlines are strict. Don’t apply in time and you will miss out on thousands of dollars.
CBPS applies to two building types:
Tier 1: Buildings 50,000 square feet or larger.
Tier 2: Buildings between 20,000 and 49,999 square feet.
Each tier has its own timeline and requirements (which you’ll find below). With Clean Buildings rebate amounts in WA ranging from tens of thousands to over $100,000 per property, understanding those requirements is critical.
Apply for WA Clean Buildings rebates before they expire.
Next, let’s break down who qualifies and how much is available.
Know If You Qualify | Understanding Tier 1 and Tier 2 Eligibility
Not every building in Washington qualifies for CBPS funding. Your building’s size, type, and use are what matter most.
Tier 1 Buildings (50,000+ sq. ft.):
Required by law to comply with CBPS.
Eligible for early adopter incentives if action is taken before set deadlines.
Applies to commercial, institutional, and some multifamily buildings.
Tier 2 Buildings (20,000–49,999 sq. ft.):
Can opt in early and get funding.
Includes smaller commercial spaces like retail stores, community centers, and office buildings.
Early compliance = incentives + long-term energy savings.
Both tiers can claim Washington state energy rebates, but incentives are first-come, first-served. That means the earlier you act, the more you stand to gain.
Now, let’s explore the money available and how to unlock it.
How Much Money Can You Get Through WA CBPS Incentives?
Incentive amounts vary depending on your building’s size and how early you apply. But in general, the numbers are well worth the effort.
Tier 1 Early Adopter Incentive:
Up to $0.85 per sq. ft. for completing energy upgrades before your deadline.
Tier 2 Voluntary Incentive:
Also up to $0.85 per sq. ft., but available only while funds last.
Let’s say you own a 60,000 sq. ft. office building in Seattle. If you apply early and complete the work on time, you could receive:
$51,000+ in Clean Buildings funding.
That’s just the incentive. You also get lower utility bills and better building performance over time.
Important to note: The incentive is not guaranteed just because you apply. You must follow all program steps—and deadlines—to claim the full amount.
When do you need to act? Let’s cover that next.
Key Clean Buildings Funding Deadlines in Washington
Knowing when to apply is just as important as knowing how. Washington’s Department of Commerce has set firm Clean Buildings application deadlines in 2025 and beyond, depending on your building tier.
Tier 1 Compliance Deadlines:
Buildings 220,000+ sq. ft.: Deadline is June 1, 2026.
Buildings 90,000–219,999 sq. ft.: Deadline is June 1, 2027.
Buildings 50,000–89,999 sq. ft.: Deadline is June 1, 2028.
Early adopter incentives must be claimed well before these dates. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of funding approval.
Tier 2 Timeline:
Program officially starts in July 2025.
Voluntary incentive applications open soon after.
Once funds run out, no more rebates will be offered.
Since Tier 2 is voluntary, it’s easy to miss the window. But those who act early can gain thousands—and stay ahead of future compliance.
Know your CBPS incentive deadlines, book a funding consultation now.
Book Consult Here <–cta scheduling link
Next, let’s look at how the application process works.
The Application Process Can Be Complex. Here’s How to Simplify It
Applying for Washington CBPS incentives isn’t a one-click process. There are multiple steps, forms, and technical documents required. For building owners, this can be overwhelming.
Here’s a simplified overview:
- Determine eligibility and gather building data.
- Create an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) target plan.
- Submit a full incentive application to the WA Department of Commerce.
- Complete upgrades and submit compliance documentation.
- Receive incentive payment once work is verified.
Even a small mistake, like missing a deadline or submitting incorrect documentation, can result in losing your funding. That’s why working with professionals who offer CBPS incentive application support is highly recommended.
Next, let’s address a concern many owners have: What if we don’t qualify or miss the deadline?
What If You Miss Out? Minimizing Risk and Maximizing Options
Missing a CBPS deadline doesn’t just mean losing your rebate. For Tier 1 buildings, it could lead to fines and penalties. For Tier 2 owners, it’s a missed opportunity that may not come around again.
But here’s the good news, even if you’re behind, there may still be options.
Some buildings may qualify for technical assistance grants.
Owners can still begin energy benchmarking to prepare for the next funding cycle.
Support is available to help catch up and avoid noncompliance penalties.
Whether you’re late or just starting, the key is to act now. The sooner you engage, the more options you’ll have to recover or move forward.
The Bottom Line: Early Action = Higher Incentives, Lower Risk
Whether you’re managing a Tier 1 or Tier 2 property, the benefits of acting early are clear:
- More money through early adopter or voluntary incentives.
- More time to meet compliance requirements without stress.
- More support when you work with experienced application consultants.
Time, and funding, is limited. With deadlines approaching and funds limited, now is the time to start.
Maximize your incentive, get help with CBPS funding applications today by scheduling a quick call with our team to check your eligibility for free funding today.
