Energy Benchmarking
Energy benchmarking is simply measuring and tracking annual energy use. Importantly, benchmarking does not require a building to meet a prescribed level of energy use. Rather, the information that benchmarking provides helps building owners and managers make more informed decisions about building operations and actions to save energy and money. Buildings that consistently benchmark reduce their energy use by up to 8-10% over time.
New in 2026
In 2026, non-residential commercial buildings 25,000 square feet (sq. ft.) and larger are required to benchmark energy use. The 2026 reporting deadline for benchmarking is June 30. Failure to complete benchmarking by the deadline will result in fines as specified in Section 29.40 of the Madison General Ordinances.
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1. Check the Covered Buildings List
The 2026 Covered Buildings list includes all buildings that must benchmark this year.
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2. Claim your building using the Building Owner Portal
Log in to claim your building(s) and connect to Energy Star Portfolio Manager.
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3. Benchmark your building using Energy Star Portfolio Manager
Set up your property in EPA's Energy Star Portfolio Manager and enter whole-building energy use data.
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4. Report to the City using the Building Owner Portal
Review and submit your building's benchmarking data in the Building Owner Portal.
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Follow these step-by-step instructions to benchmark owner-occupied buildings with no tenants and buildings where the owner pays the energy bills.
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Follow these step-by-step instructions to benchmark buildings with tenants who are responsible for paying the energy bills.
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This video demonstrates each step of the benchmarking and reporting process.
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Visit our Help Desk to find answers to common questions and request assistance.
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Join a live demo of the benchmarking process on March 17 and May 26. Register now!
