There are five ways to enter meter data:
1. Manually
- PM Level: Beginner
- This is a good option is you only have one or two properties to manage.
- See this FAQ for detailed instructions.
2. Use our simple spreadsheet to update one meter at a time. You create the file on the bottom of each meter's Manage Bills page. Once you have the spreadsheet you can upload the file or Copy/Paste it into your meter.
- PM level: Beginner/Intermediate
- This is a good option if you have just a few properties to manage, your data is in spreadsheet format, and you are comfortable with Excel spreadsheets. Or if you get your data from your utility in spreadsheet format.
- See this FAQ for detailed instructions.
3. Use our complex spreadsheet to update multiple meters and/or multiple properties.
- PM Level: Expert
- This is a good option if you have many properties and many meters to update, and you are comfortable with Excel spreadsheets.
- If you’re just getting started we recommend you test the spreadsheets with just 1-3 properties first. There is no “Undo” for spreadsheet uploads.
- See this FAQ for detailed instructions.
4. Hire a company that exchanges data with Portfolio Manager to update your energy data automatically. ENERGY STAR Service providers integrate this service into their own software and value-added offerings.
- PM Level: Beginner
- This is a good option if you have the resources, and you don’t have the time or staff to learn about energy benchmarking.
- See this FAQ for a list of ENERGY STAR Service and Product Providers.
5. See if your utility offers this service. In addition to your regular paper bill, you may be able to get your energy (and/or water) data from your utility electronically or in spreadsheet format.
- PM level: Intermediate
- This is a good option (if your utility offers it) for properties with multiple tenants and no access to tenant energy bills, or anyone managing a large portfolio where data entry is time-consuming and error-prone. You'll need to have some patience though, it's multi-step process to get everything set up. Most utilities require you to set up this process only once, and you will continue to get your data updated indefinitely into the future.
- See this FAQ for a list of utilities who offer this service.