Some D.C. public projects may skip net-zero targets but face fuel limits

The act allows specified D.C.-owned or funded projects to skip the net-zero energy standard while requiring them to follow its on-site fuel rule. These exceptions cover specified D.C.-owned or funded nonresidential construction projects. The listed projects include temporary buildings, additions under 10,000 square feet, emergency facilities, and indoor pool buildings. They also include projects with all permits needed to start construction submitted before October 1, 2024, but no submission to GBAC before February 1, 2026. Emergency facilities and indoor pool centers may delay certain energy-saving and renewable-power requirements until final mayoral rules take effect. The emergency act was approved July 30, 2026, and lasts no more than 90 days.

The net-zero energy standard requires renewable power to be generated at the building site wherever feasible. This point concerns nonresidential buildings that must meet the net-zero energy standard. The required amount of renewable power follows the latest version of Appendix Z, a referenced building-code appendix. The emergency act lasts no more than 90 days after mayoral approval on July 30, 2026.

The text directs officials to deny certain future permits if building designs fail heating-fuel or energy-saving tests. The fuel test covers new covered buildings and additions over 10,000 square feet. The energy test also covers Level 3 alterations, a building-code category of renovation. The fuel test bars on-site burning of fuel for space or water heating. The energy test requires at least as much energy savings from building operations as the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code would provide. The tests concern applications submitted after December 31, 2026. The act lasts no more than 90 days after its July 30, 2026, approval.