Evidence has shown that owning and operating energy-efficient, high-performance properties is a sound investment strategy with multiple financial benefits like lower utility bills, higher rents, improved occupancy, and greater net operating income (NOI). DOE commissioned this pilot study to overcome difficulties in isolating moderating factors and identifying specific drivers behind sustainability-related improvements in financial performance and value to investors.
The study is designed to test the logistical and empirical procedures required to establish a Commercial Real Estate Data Aggregation and Trends Analysis lab (Data Lab) and contribute to the body of evidence in this field. This analysis used data from an institutional owner of commercial real estate, and the results show that energy-efficient, high-performance properties help increase NOI and decrease operating expenses when compared to typical properties.