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Reporting according to GRESB requirements

GRESB is a framework for measuring and comparing sustainability performance in the real estate sector. GRESB is used globally to ensure sustainability measures in real estate portfolios.

To meet the requirements according to GRESB, property owners need to provide comprehensive and structured reporting that focuses on environmental, social, and governance aspects (Environmental, Social, Governance - ESG).
This summary focuses on the GRESB Performance Component: measurable data and results related to energy, water, waste, and carbon emissions from the real estate portfolio.

*[GRESB] Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark

Energy reporting according to GRESB​

Energy use is one of the most central indicators in GRESB's framework. Reporting requires the collection of energy data such as:

  • Type of energy: Reporting is required for all types of energy used, including electricity, district heating, natural gas, and renewable energy sources.
  • Energy intensity: Energy consumption is reported per square meter (kWh/m²) and related to different types of uses, such as heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting.
  • Building-level data: Measurement data should be collected for individual buildings in the portfolio rather than aggregated data, providing a clearer picture of energy efficiency.
  • Key figures and trends: Total energy use (kWh or MWh). Changes in energy use from the previous year (percentage improvement). Energy intensity compared to baseline (e.g., average performance of the portfolio).
  • Energy measures:
    GRESB also emphasizes the importance of reporting energy efficiency projects, such as:
  • Installation of energy-efficient systems (e.g., LED lighting, smart control and monitoring systems).
  • Transition to renewable energy sources.
  • Certifications such as LEED, BREEAM, or similar, which demonstrate that buildings are designed and operated with energy efficiency in mind.

Climate reporting according to GRESB​

Climate-related indicators in GRESB primarily focus on reporting and reducing carbon emissions from the real estate portfolio.

Carbon emissions
Scope 1 emissions: Direct emissions from operations, e.g., combustion of fossil fuels in buildings.
Scope 2 emissions:
Indirect emissions from purchased energy, such as electricity or district heating.
Scope 3 emissions (optional):
Emissions that occur indirectly as a result of operations, e.g., tenant energy use and waste management. Emission intensity: Reporting of carbon emissions per square meter (kg CO₂/m²) or per revenue (e.g., kg CO₂ per rental income). Climate adaptation and risk management:

GRESB also requires property owners to report on:
Measures to manage physical risks related to climate change (e.g., flooding or extreme heat).
Transition strategies, such as the goal of becoming climate neutral or using 100% renewable energy.

Water and waste reporting according to GRESB​

In addition to energy and climate factors, GRESB requires data on water consumption and waste management:

Water consumption:
Total water use (m³).
Water intensity per square meter (m³/m²).
Measures to reduce water consumption (e.g., installation of water-saving fixtures).

Waste management:
Total amount of waste generated (tons).
The proportion of waste that is recycled or reused compared to landfill.
Initiatives to reduce waste, such as source separation and reuse of construction materials.

Media reporting and public communication​

GRESB requires property owners to have transparent communication regarding sustainability issues.

Public reporting:
Publish sustainability reports that describe energy use, carbon emissions, and other environmental performance.
Communicate goals, progress, and policies regarding energy and climate issues.
Tenant collaborations: Report on how the property owner engages tenants in sustainability efforts, e.g., through joint energy-saving programs or training.
Stakeholder engagement: Describe how the property owner collaborates with investors, local communities, and other stakeholders to promote sustainability.

Strategic governance and compliance​

GRESB emphasizes the importance of a strong organizational structure to manage sustainability issues:

Sustainability policy:
The property owner should have a written policy that describes goals and strategies for energy, climate, and other ESG aspects.
Goals and monitoring:
Set measurable goals for energy and climate performance, such as reducing carbon emissions by X% within a certain timeframe.
Annual monitoring and reporting of goal achievement.
Certifications and standards: Use of standards such as ISO 14001 (environmental management) or ISO 50001 (energy management) to structure the work.

In summary, GRESB's requirements mean that property owners need to collect detailed data on energy, water, waste, and carbon emissions from their properties and report this in a standardized format.
Enkey Building Insight® enables near real-time collection, storage, and sharing of energy and climate data according to GRESB requirements.
Enkey Building Insight® is a cost-effective tool that facilitates analysis and optimization, as measurement data is collected and visualized automatically.