The bill H.181 aims to enhance building energy standards in Vermont by extending the term of the Building Energy Code Working Group and directing the Public Service Department to create a framework for attributing energy savings to building energy code compliance. It mandates the Department to develop a methodology for calculating and reporting annual greenhouse gas savings. The bill also proposes changes to the Residential Builder Registry, including lowering the registration threshold for contractors from $10,000 to $2,000 and requiring minimum liability insurance coverage based on the estimated value of labor and materials.

Key insertions in the bill include provisions that emphasize the public interest in establishing safe, energy-efficient building standards and the need for a designated state entity to enforce these codes. The bill also specifies that the Working Group will remain active until a state entity is authorized to enforce building energy codes, and it requires the Department of Public Service to consult with various stakeholders to develop greenhouse gas accounting protocols and methodologies. 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