Building Energy Saving Ordinance (BESO)
Please submit your BESO application and filing fee via mail. If you have any questions, please email the BESO Helpdesk at BESO@cityofberkeley.info.
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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 upgrades (for residential see bayrenresidential.org; for multifamily see bayareamultifamily.org). 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:
- 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
- Public reporting of energy assessment and disclosure of energy information prior to sale
How to Comply with BESO:
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 Evaluation Documents: