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Complete the Cycle: Verify Performance and Earn the ENERGY STAR Label

Closing the loop between the design's intended energy use and the building's actual performance requires the commitment of the owner to earn the ENERGY STAR label after the project is built and operating. This step solidifies that the design intent has been translated into the building's actual performance, and it provides feedback on its energy performance for future projects.

To increase the likelihood that the operating building meets its energy performance goal—and earns the ENERGY STAR label—building owners should verify that the entire building and its systems are designed, constructed, tested, and calibrated to operate to meet occupants' needs.

EPA's Portfolio Manager helps building owners track monthly building energy use from utility bills and determine if the energy design intent has been met. An operating building that earns an EPA rating of 75 or higher in Portfolio Manager for 12 consecutive months of energy bills and receives verification by a professional engineer or registered architect that the building meets indoor environmental standards qualifies to earn the ENERGY STAR label. Organizations whose buildings demonstrate superior energy performance benefit by using less energy than average buildings, reduce the effects of global warming, and improve their bottom line through increased energy savings.

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