The bill seeks to improve compliance with the clean buildings performance standard in Washington by introducing alternative metrics and extending reporting deadlines. 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 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.

Significant provisions include the requirement for building owners to create implementation plans based on investment-grade energy audits and life-cycle cost analyses, with exemptions for historic buildings. The bill introduces a tiered reporting schedule based on building size and establishes penalties for noncompliance that cannot be passed on to tenants. It also creates a customer support program for tier 2 covered buildings, focusing on those with high energy use and in underserved areas. By July 1, 2025, the department must notify tier 2 building owners of compliance requirements, and by July 1, 2029, it must evaluate energy use and greenhouse gas emissions data to recommend cost-effective building performance standards.

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