Competitors in the Michigan Battle of the Buildings are categorized by building type and compete against similar buildings. Competition categories are based on the building types available in ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager. When creating your property in ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager, you should select the building type that best represents your building.
Competition Categories
Assembly & Entertainment
Large-volume spaces with intermittent but high occupancy. Peaks in usage drive HVAC and lighting needs.
Education
Predictable schedules, high daytime occupancy, and diverse space types drive energy use patterns. Energy consumption is largely influenced by operating hours, equipment intensity, ventilation requirements, and seasonal occupancy.
Healthcare & Science
High-intensity, 24/7 operations. Heavy plug loads, specialized equipment (e.g., imaging, labs), high HVAC demand.
Industrial & Warehousing
Low occupancy. Energy used for processes, refrigeration, or large-scale storage. May be conditioned or unconditioned.
Lodging & Multifamily
24/7 occupancy. Continuous hot water, lighting, HVAC use. Benchmarking typically based on beds/units.
Mixed Use & Other
Buildings in this category include properties with multiple uses where no single use dominates, as well as specialized facilities that do not fit standard building classifications. Energy use varies widely depending on operating schedules, system types, and process or infrastructure equipment.
Office
Weekday operations with standard business hours. Moderate, steady HVAC, lighting, and plug loads.
Retail & Services
High internal loads (lighting, HVAC, refrigeration). Long hours or 24/7 operation. High energy per square foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
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