ENERGY STAR certification
ENERGY STAR certified buildings and plants cost less to operate and help protect the environment. On average, these buildings use 35 percent less energy and cause 35 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than comparable buildings across the country. Academic studies also show that ENERGY STAR certified buildings are more valuable — commanding higher rents and sale prices, among other benefits.
To earn ENERGY STAR certification, a facility must operate among the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide, with no sacrifices in comfort or quality. Starting with the first ENERGY STAR certified building in 1999, tens of thousands of buildings and plants across America have already earned EPA’s ENERGY STAR for superior energy performance.
How to earn the ENERGY STAR for your building or plant
Currently, more than 20 types of facilities can earn the ENERGY STAR. Commercial buildings start by entering their utility bill data and building information into Portfolio Manager, EPA's free online tool for measuring and tracking energy use, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Industrial plants start by entering key plant operating data into another set of free tools, called Energy Performance Indicators.
Both tools calculate a 1 – 100 ENERGY STAR score. Facilities that score a 75 or higher are eligible to apply for ENERGY STAR certification. Before facilities can earn the ENERGY STAR, a professional engineer or registered architect must verify that the information contained within the certification application is accurate.
Earn the ENERGY STAR for your facility!
Coming soon to a location near you
ENERGY STAR certified buildings and plants are located in all 50 states and come in all shapes and sizes. Some are world-famous skyscrapers. Others are locally owned small businesses. Each is making an impact in the fight against climate change.
They're also growing in number. Since the first building earned the ENERGY STAR in 1999, tens of thousands of additional buildings have followed in its lower-carbon footprints. Will your building be next?