Bill > B26-0585

This bill, the Net Zero Modification and Preservation Emergency Amendment Act of 2026, makes changes to existing laws regarding energy efficiency in buildings, specifically focusing on "net zero energy compliance," which means buildings must generate as much energy as they consume. The bill amends the Green Building Act of 2006 to exempt certain nonresidential projects from this requirement, including temporary structures, additions under 10,000 square feet, police and fire facilities, aquatic centers (natatoriums), and projects with permits submitted before October 1, 2024. It also modifies the definition of "net-zero-energy standards" in the Clean Energy DC Building Code Amendment Act of 2022, clarifying that renewable energy should be generated on-site where possible and prohibiting on-site fuel combustion for heating except for backup power. The bill also replaces the term "substantial improvement" with "Level 3 alteration" in relevant sections and changes the acronym "DCRA" to "DOB" for the Department of Buildings. These changes are enacted on an emergency basis and will last for no more than 90 days.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0585