Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) – Washington State Department of Commerce (.gov)

Clean Buildings Initiative and Sustainable Development Goals

Clean buildings play a critical role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). In 2019, the Clean Buildings bill was enacted and subsequently expanded in 2022 and 2023 to reduce energy costs and pollution associated with fossil fuel consumption in existing covered buildings, multifamily residences, and campus district energy systems within the state.

The legislation incentivizes early energy efficiency improvements through Tier 1 and Tier 2 programs, supporting the transition towards sustainable energy use and contributing to climate resilience and sustainable urban development.

Compliance Deadlines Aligned with SDGs

Tier 1 Covered Buildings Reporting Schedule

1. June 1, 2026: Buildings larger than 220,000 sq. ft.
2. June 1, 2027: Buildings between 90,001 and 220,000 sq. ft.
3. June 1, 2028: Buildings between 50,001 and 90,000 sq. ft.

Tier 2 Covered Buildings Reporting Schedule

• July 1, 2027: Buildings between 20,001 and 50,000 sq. ft. and all multifamily residential buildings over 20,000 sq. ft.

These deadlines ensure systematic progress toward energy efficiency, supporting SDG 7 by promoting clean energy consumption and SDG 13 by mitigating climate change impacts.

HB1543 Rulemaking Process Supporting SDG Implementation

• HB1543 Rulemaking Comment Dashboard
• Informational Session: Overview of HB1543 and the rulemaking process
• Workshop 1: Extensions and exemptions
• Workshop 2: Alternative compliance pathways
• Workshop 3: Clarifying language
• Workshop 4: Comprehensive review

The rulemaking workshops facilitate stakeholder engagement and transparency, fostering inclusive decision-making aligned with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Qualified Energy Manager (QEM) Training

The program offers specialized training for Qualified Energy Managers, equipping professionals with skills to implement energy efficiency measures effectively. This initiative supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing targeted capacity-building opportunities and SDG 7 by enhancing energy management expertise.

News and Updates

Funding Opportunity for CBPS Compliance

Date: December 31, 2025

An upcoming proposal conference is scheduled for January 28, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. to discuss a new Request for Applications (RFA) aimed at assisting stakeholders in meeting Clean Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) compliance. This funding opportunity promotes SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by supporting innovative energy solutions.

Resources to Support Sustainable Development

Office Hours

Monthly office hours are held on the fourth Tuesday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. PT, providing stakeholders with direct access to Clean Buildings staff for guidance, questions, and scenario discussions. This resource enhances community engagement and knowledge sharing, contributing to SDG 11 and SDG 17.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • The article focuses on reducing fossil fuel consumption and improving energy efficiency in buildings, directly relating to SDG 7’s aim to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • By targeting energy efficiency in existing buildings and multifamily residential buildings, the article addresses making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The reduction of pollution from fossil fuel consumption in buildings contributes to combating climate change and its impacts.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 7 Targets
   • Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
   • The Clean Buildings bill’s focus on energy efficiency improvements and incentives aligns with this target.
2. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Reducing pollution from fossil fuel consumption in buildings supports this target.
3. SDG 13 Targets
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
   • The Clean Buildings law and its rulemaking workshops indicate integration of climate action into state policy.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Energy Consumption Metrics
   • Reporting schedules based on building size (square footage) imply measurement of energy use and efficiency improvements in covered buildings.
2. Compliance Reporting Deadlines
   • Deadlines for Tier 1 and Tier 2 covered buildings to report compliance indicate tracking of adherence to energy efficiency standards.
3. Incentive Uptake
   • The availability of Tier 1 and Tier 2 incentives to encourage early improvements suggests monitoring the number of building owners utilizing these incentives.
4. Rulemaking and Policy Implementation
   • Workshops and rulemaking processes (HB1543) imply indicators related to policy development and implementation progress.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: commerce.wa.gov