The bill introduces a new section to chapter 19.27A RCW that allows certain school districts to be exempt from the requirement of including renewable energy generation systems in new buildings or additions larger than 10,000 square feet. Specifically, eligible school districts are defined as those with enrollments of 1,000 students or fewer, located in designated counties. The state building code council is tasked with amending the Washington state energy code by January 1, 2027, to implement this exemption without requiring additional efficiency package credits for these districts.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to ensure that the state building code council, in consultation with the department of commerce and local governments, conducts a study of the state building code and adopts necessary changes to promote the use of renewable energy systems. It clarifies that nothing in the Washington state energy code prohibits the use of gas for heating or appliance-related uses, and it maintains the existing framework for energy efficiency standards while allowing flexibility in building design. The bill also specifies that the assignment of counties to climate zones cannot be altered by the adoption of a model code or rule, except as provided in the new section regarding school district exemptions.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 82.16.110