Department of Energy Issues Final Rule on Energy Standards for Federal Buildings

On May 1, 2024, DOE issued a final rule establishing energy performance standards for the new construction and major renovation of Federal buildings, including commercial buildings, multi-family high-rise residential buildings, and low-rise residential buildings.

On May 1, 2024, DOE issued a final rule establishing energy performance standards for the new construction and major renovation of Federal buildings, including commercial buildings, multi-family high-rise residential buildings, and low-rise residential buildings. (89 Fed. Reg. 35384, May 1, 2024) The rule requires federal agencies to reduce their on-site use of fossil fuels (including coal, petroleum, natural gas, oil shales, bitumens, tar sands, and heavy oils) consistent with the targets in ECPA and EISA. The final rule also provides processes by which Federal agencies may petition DOE for a modification to the standards.