Bill > H5450

This bill introduces the All-Electric Building Act, which prohibits cities and towns from issuing construction permits for new commercial, residential, or mixed-use buildings that are not all-electric after December 31, 2026. An all-electric building is defined as one that uses electricity as its sole energy source, with no natural gas, propane, or oil heating systems. The bill allows exceptions for buildings where all-electric construction is physically or technically infeasible, such as commercial food service establishments that cannot operate with available all-electric appliances. Notably, the bill provides a specific exemption for permits related to hospitals, medical facilities, biological research laboratories, and restaurants, allowing them to continue using mixed-fuel systems. The legislation also requires a joint report by public utilities, housing development, and building code commissions by February 1, 2027, to assess potential impacts on housing affordability and electricity costs. The goal appears to be transitioning new construction towards more environmentally friendly, electric-based energy systems while providing flexibility for critical infrastructure and specialized facilities. The act will take effect immediately upon passage.

Housing and Urban Affairs

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