DC BEPS + ENERGY BENCHMARKING
Expert Strategies for Building Performance
Navigate DC’s Benchmarking and BEPS programs with confidence
INDEPENDENT ENGINEERING
Because we don't sell or install HVAC equipment, our only priority is identifying your most cost-effective path to compliance. Our recommendations are based on the technical program requirements, catered to your specific situation. Our culture is built upon “right-sizing” the scope to meet your needs. Learn more about our guiding principals.
SPECIALIZED DISTRICT FOCUS
Our team are experts in the program requirements. From simple benchmarking and 3rd party data verification to complex building upgrades, we navigate the complexities of the program requirements for you
DATA-DRIVEN RESULTS
We handle the technical heavy lifting of Energy Star Portfolio Manager benchmarking and verified data reporting, the foundation of your BEPS cycle. We help guide you through the results, and what that means for your 5-year compliance cycle requirements.
DC DOEE Compliance Requirements
Washington DC's energy policy operates on two connected tracks: Annual Benchmarking (Measuring) and BEPS Compliance (Improving).
While Benchmarking is a yearly requirement for all buildings over 10,000 sq. ft., BEPS is a multi-year performance mandate that requires specific Energy Use Intensity (EUI) reductions or prescriptive upgrades.
⚠ The Compliance Gap
Your Annual Benchmarking data sets the baseline for your BEPS targets. Incorrect data entry today can trigger the $10/sq. ft. alternative compliance penalty in 2027.
Annual Benchmarking
All Buildings > 10,000 SF
- Utility Data Aggregation
- Portfolio Manager Entry
- Review for Data Quality
- Submit to DOEE
Failure to submit annual data by April 1st results in a fine of up to $100/day.
BEPS Compliance
Cycle 1 (>50k SF) & Cycle 2 (>25k SF)
- Pathway Selection
- Energy Audit (ASHRAE 211)
- O&M Program Implementation
- Performance Evaluation
Fines are assessed at $10 per square foot of gross floor area, capped at $7.5 Million.
TAKE A STEP TOWARDS COMPLIANCE
Ready to discuss your portfolio and how Sheehan Engineering can help you achieve compliance?
Contact our engineering team to get started.
DC BEPS & Benchmarking FAQ
Specifics on pricing, deadlines, fines, and the "Conflict of Interest" regulation.
- Initial Setup & Profile Creation (One-time) $500
- Annual Reporting & Maintenance $350 / year
- 3rd-Party Verification (Single Report) $350 / report
*For complex BEPS engineering (Audits, RCx), we provide custom proposals based on square footage.
This applies to all buildings over 10,000 sq. ft. Missing this deadline by even one day can trigger a Notice of Violation and daily fines up to $100/day.
Crucial Note: The report due April 1, 2027 (covering CY2026) is your "Final Exam" for BEPS Cycle 1 and requires mandatory 3rd-party verification.
DOEE regulations strictly prohibit self-verification. The Data Verifier must be an independent third party holding a recognized credential (like a Professional Engineer license, CEM, or CEA) who is not involved in the building's daily operations or benchmarking data entry.
We offer this service as a standalone product for $350/verification if you handle your own monthly data entry.
The maximum penalty is $10 per square foot of gross floor area (capped at $7.5M).
However, penalties are proportional. If you achieve 10% savings (half your goal), your fine is reduced by 50%. Our engineering strategy focuses on getting you as close to the target as possible to minimize financial exposure.
It requires:
- An ASHRAE Level 2 Energy Audit (Phase 1).
- An Action Plan approving specific Energy Efficiency Measures (Phase 2).
- Implementation and Verification (Phase 3 & 4).
This is often the safest route for buildings with complex systems where energy outcomes are hard to predict.
- Prescriptive Pathway: Yes, it is mandatory (Phase 1).
- Performance Pathway: No, but it is highly recommended if you are struggling to identify how to get your 20% savings.
We offer ASHRAE Level 2 Audits as a core engineering service. Pricing is typically scoped based on square footage and building complexity.
Visit the DOEE BEAM Portal Helpdesk →
YOUR ROADMAP TO COMPLIANCE
Get in Touch
Whether you know your needs or have questions on the requirements, we are here to help.
Fill out the form or get in touch below:
Email kevin@sheehan-eng.com
Call (773) 312-2898
