In California Assembly Bill 1103 (AB 1103) requires that commercial buildings are benchmarked for energy efficiency in 2009 and that their Energy Star rating is disclosed to buyers, lenders and lessees during any real estate transaction that occurs after January 1, 2010.
Commercial building owners would be wise to begin benchmarking their portfolio now in 2009. Energy Auditing companies such as Partner Energy can provide low cost benchmarking services that meet the legal requirement and identify low hanging fruit for energy savings.
Buyers of buildings in 2009 are requesting that an basic energy audit be included as an add on to their Property Condition Assessment.
Posted by joederhake 
Partner Engineering Blog 