The bill seeks to improve compliance pathways for the clean buildings performance standard in Washington by introducing alternative metrics and extending reporting timelines. It amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), including RCW 19.27A.170, 19.27A.210, 19.27A.220, and 19.27A.250, while also reenacting and amending RCW 19.27A.140 and 19.27A.200. Key definitions are clarified, such as "conditional compliance," which allows building owners to show partial compliance with energy use intensity targets through energy management plans and audits. The bill emphasizes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mandates the Department of Commerce to establish energy performance standards, which must be updated every five years.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for building owners regarding energy efficiency measures, including the necessity for implementation plans based on investment-grade energy audits and life-cycle cost analyses. It provides exemptions for historic buildings and establishes alternative compliance pathways for state campus district energy systems. A reporting schedule is set for building owners, with compliance deadlines between 2026 and 2028, and penalties for noncompliance that cannot be passed on to tenants. The bill also mandates the creation of a state energy management and benchmarking requirement for tier 2 covered buildings, with a customer support program for building owners, particularly in under-resourced areas. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Washington's building sector while considering the unique circumstances of different building types.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.27A.170, 19.27A.210, 19.27A.220, 19.27A.250
Substitute Bill: 19.27A.170, 19.27A.210, 19.27A.220, 19.27A.250
Bill as Passed Legislature: 19.27A.170, 19.27A.210, 19.27A.220, 19.27A.250
Session Law: 19.27A.170, 19.27A.210, 19.27A.220, 19.27A.250