Bipartisan Support Secures Critical Funding for Energy Efficiency
Washington, D.C., January 15, 2026 – The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) applauds Congress for authorizing and funding the ENERGY STAR program at $33 million for fiscal year 2026. This vital program continues to play a pivotal role in the commercial real estate industry and the broader economy by helping building owners and operators measure and optimize energy performance, reduce operating costs, and enhance asset attractiveness to tenants.
The House of Representatives passed the measure on January 8, followed by Senate approval as part of a three-bill mini-bus on January 15.
BOMA strongly supported the effort to convince Congress to fund the Energy Star program by directly lobbying Members of Congress, supporting coalition efforts with CRE interests, and engaging BOMA’s members which resulted in nearly 900 letters being sent to Congress championing Energy Star. In addition, BOMA President and COO Mary Lue Peck and Vice President of Advocacy and Codes John Boling met with Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID), chairman of the appropriations subcommittee overseeing EPA funding, to emphasize the program’s importance. Peck stated, “More than 250,000 buildings across America rely on the Energy Star portfolio manager program to help monitor energy use, comply with local regulations, and save money for their tenants, so yes, we are 100% invested in the program.”
Peck continued, “Chairman Mike Simpson’s efforts to fund this important program were remarkable in successfully navigating a complex political environment. When most other programs were being cut, Simpson’s efforts in the House, combined with the leadership Senate Appropriations Chairwoman, Susan Collins (R-ME), moved the program out of politically perilous waters onto solid ground. Collins and Simpson are true champions of the program.”
ENERGY STAR: The Trusted Industry Standard
- Significant Savings: In 2024 alone, ENERGY STAR saved 230 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and avoided $14 billion in energy costs.
- Widespread Adoption: More than 330,000 buildings—representing nearly 25% of U.S. commercial floor space—used Portfolio Manager last year.
- Market Signal: ENERGY STAR certification signals lower utility bills and higher quality for customers, investors, and tenants.
- Policy Backbone: Dozens of state and local governments rely on ENERGY STAR data for benchmarking, disclosure, and Building Performance Standards, reducing regulatory fragmentation.
- Comprehensive Metrics: Portfolio Manager provides nationally recognized performance metrics for energy, water, emissions, and waste, enabling owners and managers to benchmark and improve sustainability.
BOMA remains committed to advancing energy efficiency and sustainability across the commercial real estate sector.
About BOMA International
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International serves the entire commercial real estate community, including owners, managers, property professionals, and service providers of all types of commercial buildings, such as office, industrial, medical, corporate, government, and mixed-use. BOMA’s mission is to promote a thriving commercial real estate industry through advocacy, influence, and knowledge through a federation of 80 U.S. local associations and 18 global affiliates with over 18,000 members. For more info, visit boma.org.