EnergyStar Certified - Commercial Buildings
EPA/DOE
Helps save energy in buildings to protect the environment.
The EnergyStar Certified - Commercial Buildings costs $0 USD. Over 35,000+ buildings have earned this certification worldwide. Renewal costs $0 USD every 12 months.
Key Strengths
- Backed by the U.S. EPA and DOE — highly credible government-backed label
- Buildings use 35% less energy on average than non-certified peers
- Free to use EPA Portfolio Manager benchmarking tool
- Over 35,000 certified buildings — widely recognized market signal
- Covers a broad range of commercial building types (offices, schools, hospitals, retail, hotels)
- Strong link to cost savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions
Ideal For
Best suited for commercial building owners, facility managers, and real estate professionals who want to demonstrate top-tier energy performance and reduce operating costs. Ideal for organizations managing office buildings, schools, hospitals, retail stores, or hotels that score 75 or above on EPA's 1–100 energy performance scale in Portfolio Manager.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Building Scope
Overview
The EnergyStar Certified - Commercial Buildings program helps businesses reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions by setting high energy-efficiency standards. It began in 1992 as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's efforts to protect the environment. Over 35,000 buildings have earned the EnergyStar label, contributing to significant energy savings and environmental benefits.
Key clients include schools, hospitals, offices, and supermarkets. Partners range from small businesses to large corporations like Target and Hilton. Buildings that achieve EnergyStar certification use 35% less energy on average and contribute to 35% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to standard buildings. The program offers tools and resources to help businesses track and improve energy performance, demonstrating both financial savings and environmental responsibility.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must enter at least 12 consecutive months of whole-building energy data into EPA's Portfolio Manager tool and achieve an energy performance score of 75 or higher (on a 1–100 scale). A licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must verify the data and building information on-site before the certification application is submitted. The application is then reviewed and approved by the EPA.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no traditional exam. Certification is awarded based on energy performance data review. The building owner or manager enters at least 12 months of whole-building energy consumption data into EPA's Portfolio Manager tool. The system calculates a 1–100 energy performance score normalized for climate, occupancy, and operating hours. Buildings scoring 75 or above are eligible to apply. A licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must conduct an on-site data verification to confirm the accuracy of the submitted information before the EPA processes the certification application.
Renewal & Compliance
ENERGY STAR building certification must be renewed annually. Building owners must re-submit updated energy performance data in Portfolio Manager, maintain a score of 75 or above, and have the data re-verified by a licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. There is no renewal fee charged by the EPA; however, costs for the PE/RA verification may apply.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Salary & Market Value
ENERGY STAR certified buildings command a measurable market premium. Studies have shown certified buildings achieve rental premiums of approximately 3–5% and sale price premiums of up to 16% compared to non-certified peers. Facility managers and engineers with demonstrated ENERGY STAR expertise and certified portfolios often see improved career prospects and compensation in the commercial real estate and sustainability sectors.
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Avoid if your building scores below 75 on the EPA's 1–100 energy performance scale, as certification requires a minimum score of 75. Buildings with insufficient 12-month energy data or those in property types not yet supported by Portfolio Manager's scoring models are not eligible.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English, Spanish
1992
35K+
Available
Cost Breakdown
How to Display This Recognition
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
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