The commercial built environment is facing an operational and financial crossroads. According to a 2026 industry report, commercial buildings represent around 35% of electricity and 18% of total energy consumed in the U.S., accounting for 26% of related emissions. [i],[ii]  More critically for facility stakeholders, an estimated 30% of the energy used in these commercial buildings is wasted, primarily driven by inefficient HVAC and lighting systems. [iii]

[i] United Nations Environment Programme, & Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. (2025). Global status report for buildings and construction 2024/2025.
[ii] About the Commercial Buildings Integration Program. (2026, April 22). Energy.Gov
[iii] About ENERGY STAR for Commercial Buildings. (2026). Energy STAR