Boston’s Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO 2.0) goes beyond simple reporting; it’s a mandatory carbon emissions reduction program that sets enforceable requirements for large commercial and residential buildings to reduce operational emissions.
Since 2025, owners and managers of buildings larger than 35,000 square feet must meet specific emissions performance limits, with stricter caps introduced every five years. The ultimate goal is for all buildings to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The cost of noncompliance can escalate quickly — penalties can reach up to $1,000 per day for properties that fail to meet required thresholds.
Why BERDO Compliance Requires Proactive Planning
The challenge of complying with BERDO 2.0 regulations lies in its emphasis on operational energy performance, not just design intent. Many existing buildings in Boston will require targeted energy retrofits, mechanical system upgrades, and building envelope improvements to meet the new emissions caps.
Acting early and partnering with an experienced structural and building performance engineering firm like Rimkus provides flexibility, reduces long-term costs, and ensures compliance without disrupting tenant operations. Rimkus engineers bring expertise in energy modeling, sustainability consulting, and emissions reduction planning, helping clients build a clear path toward compliance.
Where to Begin and How Rimkus Can Help Meet BERDO 2.0 Requirements
The Rimkus Built Environment Solutions (BES) team partners with property owners, facility managers, and developers to help them navigate BERDO compliance efficiently while maintaining safety, performance, and value.
Our qualified structural, mechanical, and energy engineers provide comprehensive building consulting services at every stage:
- Benchmarking and Annual Reporting
- Assisting with collecting, organizing, and submitting annual energy and emissions data through ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
- Providing building performance analysis to establish accurate emissions baselines
- Third-Party Emissions Verification
- Completing the required emissions data verification every five years, as mandated by the City of Boston
- Delivering independent engineering review and certification for transparency and compliance
- Compliance Planning and Strategy
- Evaluating building systems performance, identify energy efficiency upgrades, electrification opportunities, or renewable energy integration to meet emissions limits
- Developing a BERDO compliance roadmap that aligns with your capital improvement and sustainability goals
- Capital Project Advisory
- Providing engineering support for HVAC retrofits, façade and envelope upgrades, insulation improvements, and renewable system installations
- Helping prioritize structural and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems upgrades that optimize both energy efficiency and long-term resilience.
- Alternative Compliance Pathways
- If direct emissions reductions are challenging, Rimkus can help evaluate Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), or hardship-based compliance schedules to meet BERDO requirements cost-effectively
Plan Now for BERDO 2.0 Compliance
With deadlines approaching, now is the time to assess your building portfolio, review energy performance data, and implement a strategic BERDO compliance plan. Waiting too long could reduce your options and increase financial and operational risk.
If you’re seeking expert guidance on Boston BERDO 2.0 compliance, Rimkus can help. Our Built Environment Solutions (BES) and structural engineering consultants specialize in helping clients achieve emissions reduction, building resiliency, and code compliance goals.
Contact the Rimkus BES team to discuss a customized BERDO compliance strategy for your property portfolio.