They must also make the information available to the city, building renters and potential building buyers.

The new energy reporting requirement is a recommendation of the city's multi-stakeholder Green Building Task Force. It is intended to help renters and potential building buyers make more informed decisions, and help building owners identify potential energy conservation opportunities.

Council President Richard Conlin said the legislation will help Seattle reduce its carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency. “People looking for housing and office space will know the energy efficiency of the spaces they consider. This effort will provide a great market incentive for building owners to make their buildings more efficient.”