The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced the launch of ENERGY STAR NextGen, a new level of certification for U.S. commercial and multifamily buildings that available to the nation’s most energy-efficient, low-emissions buildings.

What is ENERGY STAR NextGen?

ENERGY STAR NextGen certification builds on the popular ENERGY STAR certification to recognize commercial and multifamily buildings that are not only energy-efficient, but also low-emissions. To earn ENERGY STAR NextGen certification, U.S. commercial and multifamily buildings must be independently verified to:

1. Demonstrate Superior Energy Performance: The building must achieve an ENERGY STAR score of 75 or higher and meet all criteria associated with ENERGY STAR certification.
2. Meet a Direct Emissions Target: The building’s direct (i.e., onsite) greenhouse gas emissions intensity (GHGi) must be at or below a specified level.
3. Use Renewable Energy: The building must obtain at least 30% of the total energy it consumes – or 100% of the total electricity it consumes, if lower – from eligible on-site and/or off-site renewable sources

NextGen certification carries all the benefits inherent to the ENERGY STAR certification, awarded to nearly 45,000 buildings since 1999.

Find Out If You Qualify

To qualify for NextGen certification, properties must be located in the United States (or a U.S. territory) and it must be a type that is eligible to earn ENERGY STAR certification. (List of eligible property types).

If you meet these two criteria, log in to Portfolio Manager and navigate to your property page. In the box at the top of the page, click “Check Eligibility for NextGen Certification” to see your property’s eligibility status.

Clicking this link will open a new window explaining whether you meet the three criteria. You’ll see the minimum requirements listed in the left column and your actual metrics on the right.

If you qualify, get ready to apply as soon as applications start being accepted on February 24.

Log in to Portfolio Manager

If You Don’t Qualify

Depending on which requirements you’re missing, qualifying might be as simple as updating your data. Either way, ENERGY STAR provides explanations and step-by-step instructions on its website.

Meet the Requirements for NextGen Certification.

Apply Starting on February 24

Beginning February 24, 2025, check the eligibility notification box. If you meet all the criteria, you’ll see “Apply for NextGen Certification.” Click there to start the application process. Just like with ENERGY STAR certification, you’ll need a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect to verify your application.

• Find a Licensed Professional to verify your application.
• Tips for low-cost verifications.

Questions and Additional Information

To find answers to common questions and for additional information go to www.energystar.gov/buildingshelp.

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