The proposed resolution, known as the Net Zero Modification and Preservation Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2026, aims to address the urgent need to amend the Green Building Act of 2006. It seeks to exempt certain residential and nonresidential projects from the requirement to maintain net zero energy compliance and to modify the compliance requirements for these projects. Additionally, the resolution proposes changes to the Clean Energy DC Building Code Amendment Act of 2022, specifically altering the definition of net-zero-energy standards and the types of projects to which these standards apply. It also calls for the repeal of specific net zero energy requirements for subsidized projects under the Housing Production Trust Fund Act of 1988.

The resolution highlights the financial and operational challenges faced by the District in adhering to the current net zero energy requirements, particularly for District-owned projects. It notes that significant budget allocations have been made for net zero projects, but compliance has been inconsistent. The Council has previously enacted emergency legislation to exempt affordable housing projects from these requirements to ensure project predictability. The resolution emphasizes the necessity of updating the Green Building Act to allow for more flexible yet environmentally sound standards, enabling the Executive to budget effectively for capital projects in FY27 and providing affordable housing developers with the certainty needed for upcoming funding rounds. The resolution is intended to be adopted swiftly, reflecting the emergency circumstances surrounding these issues.