BPS Library

Building Performance Standards (BPS) are a rapidly growing tool used by jurisdictions across the United States to decarbonize buildings. In most places, buildings comprise the largest energy users. BPS reduce energy use and carbon emissions, with the added benefits of saving money, improving air quality, and creating jobs. However, because BPS policies can require significant investment in buildings, there is a risk of unintended consequences. This document introduces the key risks to consider when planning a BPS as well as mitigation strategies and case studies from jurisdictions around the country.

As building performance standards (BPS) gain traction across the US, jurisdictions large and small are faced with the challenge of implementing and administering these new policies. This guide is specifically tailored for jurisdictions that are ready to dive into the details of how to structure, implement and administer a newly enacted BPS, along with best practices from jurisdictions that are on the forefront of BPS implementation efforts.

This report considers the options for implementing a building performance standard across a broader scope of buildings and geography than a single city or state: federally owned or leased buildings, which comprise 1 billion square feet across the country.

This document will be of most immediate use to policymakers that are preparing to implement or are already implementing a BPS policy. In addition to specific recommendations, the guide presents a broad overview of the many aspects of implementing a BPS and thus is a valuable resource for policy planning as well as developing appropriations requests.

For cities exploring building performance standards, a high-performance building hub provides critical guidance, technical assistance, or access to available incentives to building owners, designers, contractors, and operators. This brief for policymakers explores why a city should consider offering a high-performance hub and outlines key steps in figuring out how to set one up.

The Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) has prepared a framework for local governments, community and industry stakeholders interested in building performance standards that provides guidance on how to plan and coordinate the different policy components to achieve equitable outcomes. The USDN has also hosted a series of BPS webinars that are available on demand that provide background for local governments, community members, and industry professionals.