Northeastern University BERDO Compliance & Energy Evaluation

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Northeastern University hired WB to perform an MEP assessment to identify strategies that would reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The project ensured compliance with the City of Boston’s Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) 2.0 and advanced the university’s campus-wide sustainability goals. Our team delivered detailed system analysis, energy modeling, and compliance benchmarking to guide data-driven decision-making.

OUR SOLUTION

We performed an integrated MEP and energy evaluation, which included:

• Conducting an ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit to evaluate equipment performance, operational conditions, and potential Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs).
• Completing a BERDO 2.0 compliance assessment, calculating existing GHG emissions against regulatory thresholds and modeling future performance.
• Performing building evaluations, including site visits, system condition assessments, and stakeholder interviews to understand operational constraints.
• Benchmarking utility performance against peer facilities to identify efficiency gaps and improvement opportunities.
• Modeling the energy and emissions impact of both operational and capital improvement measures.
• Developing a phased replacement strategy for major mechanical systems to maintain building operations and minimize disruption.
• Coordinating recommendations with concurrent fit-out projects to ensure alignment between project goals and compliance requirements.

THE IMPACT

Our assessment identified opportunities to reduce building energy use by 40% and established a clear compliance pathway for BERDO 2.0, while supporting Northeastern University’s goal to align building operations with campus-wide sustainability goals.

ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Northeastern University is a global research institution based in Boston, Massachusetts, known for its focus on experiential learning and innovation. The university empowers students, faculty, alumni, and partners to solve complex challenges and create a lasting impact.