The proposed changes to Maryland's building code for new large commercial sites have sparked concern among environmental groups and at least one legislator. The issue lies in the potential weakening of the state's adherence to the national energy code, the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The proposed amendments, crafted by Maryland's Department of Labor, grant builders excessive flexibility in selecting and potentially double-counting measures that reduce a building's energy use. This could result in lower baseline standards and decreased efficiency. Del. Lorig Charkoudian (D-Montgomery) warns that these changes might violate state law, which allows for a more stringent code than the IECC but not less stringent. The 2024 IECC mandates renewable energy generation for new large buildings, but Maryland's proposal deletes this requirement, which could have significant implications. Erin Sherman, a senior associate at the Rocky Mountain Institute, highlights the modest and likely cost-effective nature of the deleted renewable energy requirement, which would have reduced energy bills for building owners. The proposed amendments also allow for double-counting of energy efficiency measures, reducing the overall energy efficiency work required. This could lead to higher energy bills and increased strain on the electricity grid, resulting in higher costs for all customers and increased climate pollution. The situation is particularly concerning given the recent cuts to the EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program, which provides free and reduced-price upgrades to home and building owners. Anne Havemann, deputy director and general counsel for the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, criticizes the shortsighted decisions made by elected officials, arguing that they prioritize energy affordability over long-term energy efficiency investments. The debate surrounding these proposed changes highlights the complex balance between energy efficiency, cost, and environmental impact, and the need for careful consideration of the potential consequences for both the environment and the economy.
