Energize Denver Compliance: What It Means and How to Get Ahead in 2025
Energize Denver requires commercial buildings to reduce energy use by 2030. Learn who must comply, what’s due in 2025, and how to avoid fines now.
Denver is making bold moves toward a more sustainable future—and commercial building owners are on the front lines. The Energize Denver ordinance is already in effect, and 2025 marks a pivotal year for compliance. But what exactly does the law require, who does it affect, and what steps should property owners take today to avoid penalties and capture energy savings?
This guide will walk you through the essentials of Energize Denver compliance, explore how it affects your building, and show how Cascade Solar & Electric can help you turn compliance into a strategic advantage.
What Is Energize Denver?
The Energize Denver ordinance, passed in 2021, is part of the city’s ambitious climate action plan. It requires most commercial and multifamily buildings over 25,000 square feet to:
Benchmark and report annual energy use
Complete an ASHRAE-level energy audit or electrification assessment
Meet energy performance targets by phased deadlines (2025, 2027, 2030)
The ultimate goal: reduce building energy use 30% citywide by 2030 and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Official Ordinance Info:
Visit the City of Denver’s Energize Denver homepage for full ordinance language and updated deadlines.
Who Needs to Comply?
If you own or manage any of the following property types within Denver, you are likely required to comply:
Commercial buildings over 25,000 sq. ft.
Multifamily properties (apartments, condos)
Warehouses, industrial facilities, retail spaces
Mixed-use developments
The city provides few exemptions, and enforcement is already underway. Missing deadlines or failing to submit benchmark data could result in steep fines.
Why This Matters in 2025
This year is a key milestone in the phased rollout. Energy audits or electrification assessments are due for many property types in 2025—and if you're behind schedule, your building could face penalties up to $2,000 per quarter.
But it’s not just about compliance. Upgrades like solar, LED retrofits, and energy monitoring can dramatically reduce your operating costs, increase asset value, and even qualify you for rebates and tax incentives.
How Cascade Solar & Electric Can Help
Cascade is more than a solar installer—we’re a full-service energy partner. We work with commercial property owners and developers to:
Conduct ASHRAE-level energy audits
Provide customized compliance plans
Install solar energy systems and battery storage
Retrofit LED lighting systems
Upgrade panels and electrical infrastructure
Submit benchmark reports and documentation
We make compliance simple, strategic, and aligned with your bottom line.
Free Download: Your Energize Denver Checklist
Want a clear, printable roadmap? Download our free guide: Is Your Building Energize Denver Ready? This checklist covers every step—from audits to upgrades—and includes tips on how to qualify for incentives and avoid fines.
Useful Resources:
Cascade’s Energize Denver Compliance Services
Final Thoughts
Energize Denver is more than a regulation—it’s an opportunity to improve your building’s performance, lower your energy costs, and position your property for long-term success. Don’t wait for a penalty notice to take action.
Contact Cascade Solar & Electric today to schedule your audit or create a custom compliance plan.
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