COMPLIANCE
Frequently Asked Questions About New Energy Regulations
In response to the sweeping energy regulations introduced by the city and county of Denver , the Apartment Association of Metro Denver ( AAMD ) and Colorado Apartment Association ( CAA ) have taken proactive steps to navigate the challenges posed by the Energize Denver program . These FAQs are designed to provide clarity on the litigation assessment and funding strategy initiated by the AAMD and CAA , shedding light on the voluntary contributions sought from building owners to support legal efforts challenging the impactful regulations . Explore the intricacies of the funding strategy , the legal team spearheading the initiative , and the comprehensive approach adopted by these associations to safeguard their members ' interests amidst the evolving landscape of energy efficiency mandates .
About the Regulations
What are the recent energy regulations impacting commercial buildings in Denver ?
The city and county of Denver have introduced stringent " energy efficiency " mandates known as the " Energize Denver " program . These mandates require all existing commercial , multifamily , and public buildings with 25,000 square feet and larger to comply with strict energy efficiency measures .
What is the purpose of the Energize Denver program ?
The Energize Denver program aims to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions ( GHG ) to zero by 2040 for all existing and new Denver " covered buildings ." The program has no soft implementation phase , and the first mandatory compliance period started on Jan . 1 , 2024 . There are several problems with Energize Denver and the State ’ s Regulation 28 – but even if 100 % of the covered building were to comply it will only make a . 0007 % difference for the environment .
How does Energize Denver enforce compliance ?
Denver plans to enforce compliance with steep penalties and fines , liens for noncompliance , and mandated compliance status disclosures prior to any future sale of a " covered building ."
What contributes to GHG emissions in these buildings , and how can it be reduced ?
GHG emissions in these buildings primarily come from the use of natural gas for heating and hot water . To reduce or eliminate these emissions , building owners are essentially required to either forego the use of natural gas amenities or convert the building to use more costly electricity .
What are the main components of Energize Denver , and how are they measured ?
Energize Denver has two main components : annual benchmarking reporting of a building ' s energy usage and final building performance standards that covered buildings must meet by 2030 .
Both components are expressed using an Energy Use Intensity ( EUI ) metric , representing the building ' s energy use per square foot .
What measures are building owners required to take to comply with Energize Denver ?
Under Energize Denver , covered building owners must implement energy efficiency measures necessary to meet their first interim building performance standard requirement . This includes
18 | TRENDS FEBRUARY 2024 www . aamdhq . org