Commercial and residential buildings provide shelter and space for us to live, work and congregate safely and comfortably, but they can sometimes use an upgrade to make them more efficient and healthy for the people who use them. Just like cars and trucks and industry, our buildings emit greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Burning fossil fuels for heat and hot water are two of the most common sources of direct emissions from buildings.
That’s why we are encouraging everyone to learn more about how to make smart decisions and plan ahead for replacing old systems with newer technology. Efficient, net-zero emissions buildings even save you on energy costs. Investments in achieving these standards are investments in the buildings that will pay dividends to occupants and building owners for decades to come.
Maryland is leading the way with Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), an initiative that improves data tracking, educates building owners about new products and methods to decrease emissions, and ultimately helps us all breathe easier.
Maryland’s Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022 is the relevant law, requiring a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2031 (from 2006 levels) and net-zero emissions by 2045. The law directs multiple sectors to act: large buildings must meet new performance standards to cut energy use and emissions; the power sector must expand clean energy and reduce fossil fuel reliance; the transportation sector must accelerate the shift to zero-emission vehicles and infrastructure; and state agencies must prioritize equity by investing in overburdened and underserved communities.
The law also requires state and local government fleets to transition to electric vehicles, calls for stronger energy efficiency programs, and expands tree planting and natural climate solutions. These measures combine regulatory standards, planning requirements, and clean energy investments to drive Maryland toward its climate and public health goals.
Start by Benchmarking
Owners of buildings 35,000 square feet and larger (excluding parking) are required to report energy data to the Maryland Department of the Environment through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool.
Historic buildings, public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools, manufacturing buildings, agricultural buildings, and federal buildings may apply to be exempt from the reporting and performance standards.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
These proven energy efficiency measures can reduce operating costs for building owners and are generally feasible to implement at any time:
Conduct an energy audit, often available through your local utility, to identify savings opportunities.
Upgrade to LED lighting to reduce electricity use while maintaining high-quality illumination.
Choose ENERGY STAR–certified equipment for improved efficiency and lower utility bills.
Improve weatherization of the building envelope through air sealing and insulation to reduce energy loss.
Retro-commission building systems to ensure heating, cooling, and ventilation are operating at peak performance.
Install modern control systems to better manage plug loads, lighting, and HVAC equipment for optimized efficiency.
Time for an Upgrade
If your equipment is getting old, now is the time to go all-electric and eliminate your direct emissions.
Start preparing for the switch by checking if your electrical system can handle it and looking at efficient electric replacement options. The best time to switch is right before your old equipment completely breaks down. Sometimes, it might even save money to switch to electric earlier.
Building owners should discuss these options with their building engineers and contractors. Wherever possible, building owners should pursue efficient electrification options, mainly heat pumps, which use 2-3 times less energy than their electric resistance counterparts. Common options for efficient electrification include:
Heat pumps for space heating and cooling
Heat pumps or distributed electric point-of-use for water heating
Heat pump laundry systems
Induction cooking
Resources on electrification:
Contact Us
You can reach our team by e-mail at [email protected] or call (410) 537-3183. Other resources are available to help guide you:
