Energy benchmarking: next steps

Once you’ve benchmarked your building’s energy consumption, what’s next? There are lots of ways you can capitalize on your benchmarking efforts, including:

• Set goals. Use the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Target Finder tool, applicable to both existing buildings and those in the design stage, to decide how much better you want your building to perform, and track your progress toward that goal. The tool is built right into Portfolio Manager, so it’s easier than ever to use.
• Identify areas for improvement. Use the data provided by benchmarking to figure out where you can save energy. Start with operational and behavioural changes that can be implemented with little or no investment.
• Plan for retrofitting. Benchmarking provides you with the evidence to back up the case for replacing outdated equipment and investing in deep retrofits that can have a lasting impact on your bottom line. Natural Resources Canada is developing major retrofit guidelines targeted specifically to offices, K-12 schools, hospitals and retail stores to help these building types make the most of their retrofit projects.
• Get some training. Consider an energy management workshop to help you identify new savings opportunities, understand your financing options, optimize your energy monitoring efforts, and more.
• Explore recognition opportunities. If you’ve made positive changes as a result of benchmarking, you may want to consider some form of official recognition. Building certification, such as the Building Owners and Managers Association’s BOMA BEST or the Canada Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), can not only raise your corporate profile as a green organization, but can also increase your occupancy rate and stability, as well as the rental and sale price of your building. Or you can share your story by joining our Canadian Circle of Energy Benchmarking Champions and inspire others to follow your lead. Send us an email at info.services@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca to tell us how benchmarking has made a difference in your organization.

For more tips on maximizing the energy efficiency in your building, visit our section on Energy efficiency for existing buildings.