Boosting Building Performance: A Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing Building Performance Standards

Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to implementing Building Performance Standards (BPS), covering key aspects from establishing administrative structure and setting performance targets to data management and enforcement. It emphasizes stakeholder collaboration and offers practical advice for building owners and managers. By following these steps, buildings can enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and contribute to a sustainable future.

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Okay, so let’s talk about Building Performance Standards, or BPS. They’re really changing the game when it comes to how we think about energy and emissions in existing buildings, and I think you’ll agree, it’s about time. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating a more sustainable future, you know?

It can seem daunting, this whole BPS thing, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide that should help make it all a bit clearer. We can start by just laying the groundwork:

Step 1: Setting the Foundation: the Admin Side

First, you need to pinpoint who’s going to be in charge. Is it the Department of Buildings, or will you need to create a new sustainability office? Either way, that’s your starting point.

Next, you absolutely need a stakeholder advisory board. Think building owners, tenants, those industry pros, and community representatives – get ’em all in the mix. This is really important because, when you involve everyone, you get better buy-in and hear all kinds of perspectives. It’s like that time, when working on a project, and I didn’t consult the marketing team, and they had some pretty great insight. Lesson learned, the hard way!

Consider, too, forming some committees, specifically focusing on the technical side of things.

Step 2: Setting the Bar – Defining Performance

Now, you’ve got to actually set the standards themselves. You know, the specific metrics. We talking about energy use intensity (EUI)? Greenhouse gas emissions? Maybe water consumption?

Whatever it is, set some realistic, but also ambitious, targets. Think short-term and long-term goals so that everyone knows what they’re aiming for. And, it’s not a one-size-fits all approach. Calculating interim standards needs to consider the building type, the age, its function; basically, make it equitable, fair you know?

Step 3: Mapping the Path: Building Performance Action Plans (BPAPs)

BPAPs, these are crucial! They map out exactly what building owners need to do to meet the targets.

They shouldn’t be too rigid, though. Allow some flexibility: energy upgrades, integrating renewable energy, or even operational improvements, it all should be considered.

But, also, these plans need to reflect community priorities and equity. Involve a Community Accountability Board to ensure that. Also? Get clear guidelines in place for documentation, reviews, and how to handle any adjustments or extensions. It’ll save a lot of headaches, trust me.

Step 4: Data, Data, Data: Making it Count

Listen, all of this is basically pointless without good data management. You need a solid building database that has all key building information, energy consumption, and compliance status. You’re going to need a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, too, to communicate with building owners and track everyone’s progress. A program administration dashboard helps you track your success too. And a owner portal? That’s going to be incredibly useful. Ensure that the software and tools you choose? They’re user-friendly, secure, and can handle the sheer volume of data. We’re not working with index cards here!

Step 5: Accountability: Rules of Engagement

Finally, there must be consequences for those not playing ball. We’re talking non-compliance here. There should be things like alternative compliance payments or other enforcement tools. The goal though? It’s not punishment. It’s about encouragement and providing support while still making sure that everyone is accountable.

Now, beyond these basic steps, here’s a few extra things to keep in mind:

• Collaboration is a must: Keep the lines of communication open between the implementing agency, all the stakeholders, and building owners. Host workshops, training sessions, and use online resources to share information, this isn’t a solo effort!

• Flexibility and equity: Consider any circumstances that might make things difficult – like financial issues, building type, that sort of thing. Prioritize making BPS beneficial to everyone in the community.

• Continuous Improvement: BPS aren’t set in stone; it’s an ongoing thing. Review and update your performance targets and program guidelines regularly, because technology and best practices are always evolving, aren’t they?

By following these steps, any jurisdiction can implement BPS successfully. It’s a real step towards energy efficiency, emission reduction, and, ultimately, a much more sustainable built environment. I feel good about that.