The All-Electric Building Act is expected to bring significant changes to local building codes and regulations. It positions Rhode Island as an early adopter of strict electrification in construction, aligning state policy with environmental goals. However, there are provisions that allow for exemptions when constructing buildings such as hospitals, medical facilities, or specific commercial establishments like restaurants, which may face unique operational challenges under the all-electric requirement. Local governments are required to assess feasibility based on technical and physical constraints rather than financial considerations.
Summary
House Bill H7374, known as the All-Electric Building Act, enforces regulations regarding the construction of new buildings in Rhode Island. This bill mandates that no new commercial, residential, or mixed-use buildings shall be permitted unless they are designed to be all-electric starting from January 1, 2024. The intent is to promote sustainability and lessen dependency on fossil fuels, urging builders to rely solely on electric power for energy needs—spanning heating, cooling, and cooking applications, thus improving overall energy efficiency in the state.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussions among legislators, with some members advocating for a transition to electric buildings as a measure to combat climate change, while others express concern over the feasibility of such mandates. Critics worry that this legislation could unintentionally hinder development due to the stringent nature of the regulations. Furthermore, questions remain around how these changes will affect housing affordability and the cost of construction, particularly for mixed-use developments and projects in economically vulnerable areas. The Public Utilities Commission is tasked with ensuring that electric rates remain affordable and does not adversely affect housing production.
Provides that no city or town may issue a permit for the construction of new buildings, that are not an all-electric building, if the initial application for a permit was submitted after December 31, 2026, unless certain circumstances apply.
JOINT RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING THE EXECUTIVE CLIMATE CHANGE COORDINATING COUNCIL (EC4) TO PREPARE A REPORT ON BENCHMARKING AND BUILDING PERFORMANCE STANDARDS