MN SF4241

Establishes a building energy benchmarking program requiring owners of buildings with 50,000+ square feet to annually enter energy use data into the EPA's Energy Star Portfolio Manager tool or equivalent.

Applies staggered implementation schedule by building size: Class 1 (150,000+ sq ft) by June 1, 2023; Class 2 (100,000-149,999 sq ft) by June 1, 2024; Class 3 (75,000-99,999 sq ft) by June 1, 2025; Class 4 (50,000-74,999 sq ft) by June 1, 2026, with annual benchmarking thereafter.

Requires public disclosure of energy use data on the Department of Commerce website, including energy intensity, greenhouse gas emissions, performance scores, and assigns each building a 1-4 star rating based on energy efficiency compared to similar buildings.

Mandates building owners to disclose star ratings to prospective tenants on rental applications and requires owners of low-performing buildings (energy score of 25 or below) to conduct an energy audit within one year, with grant funding available to cover audit costs.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Commerce to exempt properties experiencing financial distress, low occupancy, or lacking certificates of occupancy, and allows civil fines for non-compliance with benchmarking requirements.