New Orleans Mandates Energy Reporting for Large Buildings Now

UPDATE: New Orleans has just announced a groundbreaking initiative to combat climate change by enforcing energy benchmarking requirements for large buildings. The Office of Resilience & Sustainability (ORS) revealed that all properties exceeding 20,000 square feet must now regularly report their energy consumption, marking a significant step in the city’s climate action plan.

This new mandate affects numerous buildings across New Orleans, as property owners are now required to verify their compliance through the newly released Covered Property List (CPL). It’s crucial for owners to check if their properties are included to avoid penalties, which could reach up to $3,000 for non-compliance. The city is emphasizing immediate action, urging all stakeholders to engage with the benchmarking process.

To facilitate understanding of these new regulations, ORS is hosting two essential webinars. The first session will take place on November 12, 2023, from 11 a.m. to noon, and the second on November 18, 2023, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.. Interested parties can register through the CPL page, which also provides guidance on claiming properties and submitting necessary details.

The phased implementation will begin in 2026, when buildings over 50,000 square feet will be required to participate. By 2027, all properties of 20,000 square feet and above must comply with the annual energy usage reporting, utilizing the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager for tracking energy consumption. Notably, there will be a grace period for new participants, with penalties waived during the first year of compliance.

This initiative is more than just a regulatory change; it represents New Orleans’ commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. As the city faces increasing challenges from climate change, these measures are vital for protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for its residents.

For property owners, this is a pivotal moment to engage and adapt. The city encourages immediate action to align with these new standards and avoid costly fines. Stakeholders are urged to share this information widely to ensure that everyone is informed and prepared for the upcoming changes.

Stay tuned for further updates as New Orleans leads the charge in energy accountability and climate resilience.