The bill H.181 aims to enhance building energy standards in Vermont by extending the Building Energy Code Working Group's term and directing the Public Service Department to create a framework for attributing energy savings to building energy code compliance. It also mandates the Department to develop a methodology for calculating and reporting annual greenhouse gas savings. Key findings in the bill highlight the urgent need for improved housing standards and energy efficiency, citing a significant number of housing units required by 2029 and the declining compliance rates with existing energy codes.

Notable changes in the bill include the extension of the Working Group's existence until a state entity is authorized to enforce building energy codes, the requirement for energy efficiency entities to attribute savings to code compliance, and the adjustment of the registration threshold for residential builders from $10,000 to $2,000. Additionally, the bill stipulates that any amendments to the Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) must be effective six months after adoption, and it establishes a new requirement for registrants to maintain liability insurance if the value of labor and materials exceeds $10,000. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-209(d), 30-209, 30-51, 10-582, 26-5501, 26-5509