As the state works toward bringing large-scale buildings into compliance with new energy standards, local leaders and hospitality groups are questioning the impact those regulations could have on both the public and private sectors.
On Wednesday, the Maryland Department of the Environment closed its public comment period on proposed regulations that will require large buildings such as hotels, multifamily buildings and certain government facilities to meet net zero emission standards by 2040. But some officials argue such mandates could harm local governments and business owners that rely on fossil fuels to power their buildings.
“It’s really not practical,” Del. Wayne Hartman said this week.
In 2022, the Maryland General Assembly passed the Climate Solutions Now Act, which sets emission reduction goals and tasks the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) with developing plans for achieving those targets. From that legislation, Building Energy Performance Standards were introduced.
Simply put, the state’s goal is for certain buildings over 35,000 square feet to move away from fossil fuels and achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. Next year, building owners must start reporting emissions data, which will be measured against newly developed emissions standards beginning in 2030. Penalties for buildings that do not meet set standards will be implemented in 2031.
“Efficient net-zero emissions buildings improve comfort, resilience, and reliability, and provide savings on energy costs compared to old, inefficient buildings that run on fossil fuels,” MDE’s website reads. “Investments in achieving these standards are investments in the buildings that will pay dividends to occupants and building owners for decades to come.”
What a stupid and expensive mandate that will close many businesses and housing facilities. These law makers we have now have lost their minds.
cant they use the wind
Business will close and jobs will be lost. Nice job tree huggers, you will eventually be affected by your dumb mandates imposed on normal people just trying to make an honest living.