Bill > HB870

This bill mandates that the Maryland Department of Labor, by October 1, 2028, establish new energy conservation requirements for the construction of "covered buildings," which are defined as commercial or multifamily residential buildings in Maryland, or buildings owned by the State, with a gross floor area of 35,000 square feet or more, excluding parking garages, and not designated as historic, elementary or secondary schools, manufacturing, or agricultural buildings. These requirements will be incorporated into the Maryland Building Performance Standards, which are based on the International Building Code and International Energy Conservation Code, and will aim for zero predicted annual net direct greenhouse gas emissions and specific site energy use intensity performance targets, with provisions for energy efficiency credits and waivers for measures that cannot be reasonably implemented, while also allowing local jurisdictions to enact even stricter energy conservation requirements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0870?ys=2026RS