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 500 students or fewer, located in specific counties listed in RCW 19.27A.020. 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, including RCW 19.27.195 and RCW 19.27A.020, to ensure that the state building code council conducts a study and adopts necessary changes to promote the use of renewable energy systems, while also clarifying that nothing in the energy code prohibits the use of gas for heating or appliances. The amendments also specify that the council must consider regional climatic conditions when adopting rules for the Washington state energy code, and it maintains the preemption of local energy codes unless they exceed state requirements established prior to March 1, 1990.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 82.16.110
Substitute bill: 82.16.110