Building Emissions Performance Standard
Buildings are responsible for 40% of Seattle’s climate pollution — the majority of which comes from burning fossil fuels for space and water heating. The Building Emissions Performance Standard (BEPS) law addresses this pollution and increases climate resiliency by gradually moving existing buildings off polluting fossil fuels and onto cleaner sources like City Light’s low-emissions electricity.
BEPS requires nonresidential and multifamily buildings larger than 20,000 square feet to meet progressively stronger greenhouse gas emissions targets over the next two decades. Covered buildings must eventually reach net-zero emissions by 2041–2050. These reductions will make a big difference — by 2050, BEPS is projected to decrease emissions from buildings as a whole by 27%.
What Do Building Owners Need to Do?
Verify Emissions and Energy Data
BEPS phases in over time. By 2027–2030 (depending on building size), building owners must have a Qualified Person conduct Benchmarking Verification. This ensures data accuracy and supplements annual Benchmarking.
Make a Plan
By 2027–2030, a building’s Qualified Person must submit a Greenhouse Gas Report that documents upcoming emissions targets and shows how a building owner plans to comply.
Meet Emissions Targets
By 2031–2035, building owners must meet the initial emissions targets or use an alternative compliance path. To get an early estimate of your building’s target for the first compliance interval, view the Seattle Benchmarking Map.
Get Started Today
BEPS deadlines start soon, and it's never too early to prepare. BEPS compliance deadlines are based on the building’s size. The largest buildings' first requirements start in 2027, while the smallest have until 2030. Here’s how you can get ready to comply.
Learn More About BEPS
To learn more about the paths to compliance and the ways OSE can support you, watch our 10-Minute BEPS Basics Presentation or read the Guide to the New Policy. Then, sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date as more guidance, tools and trainings are announced.
Check Your Building's Deadlines
If your building is required to comply with BEPS, it’s likely also been reporting annual Energy Benchmarking. Check out the Seattle Benchmarking Map to see your building’s deadlines and estimated BEPS targets.
Get Help
Not sure where to start? The Seattle Building Emissions Navigator offers free technical support and coaching for building owners that need to comply with BEPS. You may also find the answer on our FAQs page.