Orlando's Building Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy (BEWES) requires large commercial and multifamily buildings to benchmark and report energy and water use annually. This guide covers reporting deadlines, audit requirements, and strategies for improving building performance while cutting costs.
Orlando is taking decisive steps toward sustainability through its Building Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy (BEWES). The policy requires large commercial and multifamily buildings to track, report, and improve energy and water efficiency. As a property owner or manager in Orlando, understanding BEWES is essential for maintaining compliance, reducing costs, and optimizing building performance.
Buildings account for nearly 72% of citywide greenhouse gas emissions, making them a crucial target for Orlando’s climate action efforts. BEWES supports the city’s long-term sustainability goals, including reducing emissions by 90% by 2040 and achieving 100% clean energy for municipal operations by 2030.
BEWES is an ordinance designed to improve energy and water efficiency in large commercial and multifamily buildings. The policy applies to:
By focusing on these buildings, BEWES targets the largest consumers of energy and water in the city, driving efficiency improvements and cost savings.
BEWES applies to large private and public buildings that meet the square footage thresholds. Property owners and managers must:
Orlando’s policy encourages voluntary compliance for smaller buildings, but future regulations may expand these requirements.
Benchmarking is the first step in compliance and involves tracking a building’s energy and water consumption.
Reports must be submitted by May 1st each year.
Benchmarking allows building owners to compare performance against similar buildings, identify inefficiencies, and set improvement goals.
Buildings that fall below the national median (ENERGY STAR score under 50) must undergo an energy and water audit or retro-commissioning every five years.
Energy audits identify system inefficiencies, outdated equipment, and potential savings opportunities.
If an energy audit is not required, property owners may choose retro-commissioning to improve building performance.
Retro-commissioning helps extend equipment life, reduce operational costs, and improve tenant comfort.
To meet BEWES requirements and avoid audits, buildings should implement energy and water-saving measures:
Buildings that consistently meet energy efficiency targets may avoid additional compliance costs and benefit from long-term savings.
Several programs are available to help offset compliance costs:
Leveraging these incentives helps property owners reduce upfront costs and improve return on investment.
Orlando’s Building Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy is shaping the city’s sustainability future. To stay ahead of compliance requirements, property owners should:
BEWES compliance ensures long-term cost savings, enhances property value, and supports Orlando’s clean energy goals. By taking action now, businesses can stay ahead of regulations, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable city.
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