The City of Bellevue is implementing a new program to help apartment and condo building owners meet state environmental rules while making it easier for renters to live more sustainably.
Called Better Buildings, the program offers six free services covering energy efficiency, waste management, EV charging, water conservation, and transportation options. This is available to multifamily building owners across the city.
The effort comes as Washington State strengthens environmental requirements for buildings. Two key laws are driving the change: the Clean Buildings Act, which sets limits on how much energy larger buildings can use, and the Organics Management Law, which requires better handling of food waste and composting.
Through the program, property owners can track their building’s energy use and find ways to cut costs and consumption. A partnership with five neighboring cities, Redmond, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Kirkland, and Sammamish, helps building owners switch to energy-efficient heat pump systems. Waste audits, recycling support, and tenant education are also available through a partnership with Republic Services.
Additional services include help installing EV charging stations, free water-saving tools and rebates, and resources encouraging residents to use transit, bike, or carpool instead of driving alone.
The city is hosting a free informational webinar on Wednesday, June 24, from noon to 1 p.m. Building owners can register through the Better Buildings page on the City of Bellevue website.
