The bill seeks to improve compliance with the clean buildings performance standard 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 requires the Department of Commerce to establish energy performance standards, which must be updated every five years.

Significant provisions include the establishment of a state energy performance standard for covered buildings, requiring energy efficiency measures based on investment-grade energy audits. Buildings on the state or national register of historic places are exempt from certain energy efficiency requirements. The bill also outlines compliance reporting requirements, penalties for noncompliance, and a customer support program for tier 2 covered buildings, which includes multifamily housing and child care facilities. By July 1, 2025, the department must notify tier 2 building owners of compliance requirements, and by July 1, 2029, it must evaluate benchmarking data to assess energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately leading to the adoption of performance standards by December 31, 2030.

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