Climate groups in Maryland are expressing concern over proposed changes to the state's building code for new large commercial sites, arguing that these amendments could weaken the national energy code. The proposed changes, crafted by Maryland's Department of Labor, are seen as allowing builders too much flexibility to select and potentially double-count measures that reduce a building's overall energy use, according to environmental groups and at least one legislator.
Del. Lorig Charkoudian (D-Montgomery) believes the changes could violate state law, which allows Maryland to adopt a code more stringent than the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) but not less stringent. The 2024 version of the IECC requires new large buildings to generate a certain amount of renewable energy on-site, but Maryland has deleted this requirement, according to Erin Sherman of the Rocky Mountain Institute.
Sherman highlights the modest nature of the deleted requirement, which was 0.75 watts of renewable energy per square foot for the largest three floors of a new building. This reduction in energy efficiency standards is particularly concerning given recent cuts to the EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program, which provides free and reduced-price energy-efficiency upgrades to homeowners and building owners.
The proposed changes also allow builders to double-count certain energy efficiency measures, reducing the overall amount of energy efficiency work required. Sarah Newman of the Responsible Energy Codes Alliance strongly opposes double-counting, emphasizing that it should not be allowed. If these measures become law, buildings will face higher energy bills and increased strain on the electricity grid, potentially leading to higher costs for all customers and increased climate pollution.
However, Lori Graf, CEO of the Maryland Building Industry Association, argues that the proposed IECC code will give construction companies more flexibility with energy efficiency credits, reducing costs and stimulating housing construction. She acknowledges that previous versions of the code have been challenging for builders, but believes this version will be more flexible and better received.
The debate over these proposed changes highlights the tension between energy efficiency standards and economic considerations. Climate advocates argue that weaker standards will lead to higher energy use and future infrastructure upgrades, while the building industry emphasizes the need for flexibility and cost reduction. As the public comment period continues, the outcome of these proposed changes remains uncertain, but the concerns raised by climate groups and legislators underscore the importance of balancing energy efficiency with practical considerations in building codes.
