What constitutes a single structure? What if multiple buildings are connected via hallways, common spaces, etc.?
EPA’s energy performance rating system is based on a statistical analysis of individual buildings, not campuses of buildings. A series of buildings situated closely together as a plaza or campus, even if sharing a common heating or cooling source, is NOT considered a single structure, it is considered a campus of buildings. In this type of arrangement, it is necessary to separately meter the energy consumption for each building and pursue separate energy performance ratings and ENERGY STAR recognition. This type of sub-metering is a more effective management strategy, as it will help isolate problems and target the most efficient upgrade opportunities. Moreover, sub-metering will also provide a much more accurate energy performance rating, given that the rating system is based on data from single structure buildings. Buildings that have multiple towers connected by common concourse levels and/or hallways may present a different situation. In these types of buildings, if there are commo
