Bill > HB973

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Labor to update the Maryland Building Performance Standards by October 1, 2025, with several key provisions aimed at reducing fossil fuel use and improving energy efficiency. The bill mandates that new buildings and significant improvements (defined as renovations costing 50% or more of the building's replacement value) must meet all laundry, water, and space heating demands without using fossil fuels, with some specific exceptions for emergency systems and certain commercial facilities. The bill also introduces "electric-ready" and "solar-ready" standards, requiring new buildings to have adequate electrical infrastructure for future high-efficiency electric appliances and, for buildings over 20,000 square feet and 20 stories or less, to have roof space capable of supporting solar panel installation. Additionally, the bill establishes progressive energy efficiency requirements for residential and commercial buildings, increasing the required energy efficiency from 35% to 65% between 2027 and 2033, depending on the type of building and permit application date. Local jurisdictions are allowed to adopt even more stringent energy conservation requirements, and the Department of Labor must ensure that energy efficiency calculations do not unfairly advantage buildings based on their fuel type.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0973?ys=2025RS