Building Energy Saving Ordinance (BESO)

Energy use in our homes and commercial buildings is the second leading contributor of greenhouse gases in the City of Berkeley making up almost 40% of our overall greenhouse gas emissions, according to 2016 available data.

BESO requires building owners and homeowners to complete and publicly report comprehensive energy assessments to uncover energy saving opportunities. The assessments are conducted by registered energy assessors (for Commercial, Multifamily & Mixed Use or Houses [1-4 unit residential buildings]) who provide tailored recommendations on how to save energy and link building owners to incentive programs for energy efficiency upgrade projects, such as Energy Upgrade California. Energy efficiency improvements are voluntary and encouraged. BESO is required prior to sale of a house or whole building under 25,000 square feet, and on a phased-in schedule for multifamily and commercial buildings.

BESO Requirements:

1. Energy efficiency assessment
   • High performance buildings are exempt from the assessment requirements*
   • Assessments may be deferred to buyer for up to 12 months, at time of sale
    
2. Public reporting of energy assessment and disclosure of energy information prior to sale   

  How to Comply with BESO: 

Links to BESO Documents    (Refer to BESO Large Building Requirements for buildings over 25,000 ft2)
	BESO Application for Compliance  for under 25,000 ft2
	BESO Property Status List  for under 25,000 ft2
	Registered Energy Assessor Lists:        Commercial, Multifamily, & Mixed Use            Houses (1-4 unit residential buildings)

To learn more about ways to save energy, lower utility bills, and improve the comfort of your home, please see our Energy Efficiency Incentive Programs page.  Participation in one of these verified programs may qualify you for a High Performance exemption.   

BESO Governing Documents:

• BESO Ordinance (BMC 19.81) (adopted March 10, 2015)
• City Council Report and Revised BESO proposal (Council Meeting February 24, 2015)
• Revised BESO Administrative Regulations Version 2.2 (effective September 12, 2018)
• BESO Progress (Berkeley Energy Commission December 7, 2016)

For questions, email BESO@cityofberkeley.info or call 510-981-7465.