Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the sugars.
Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter, and whisk until well combined.
Stir in the active sourdough starter until fully incorporated.
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
If using, fold in the chocolate chips for extra chocolaty goodness.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.