Establishes the environmental justice advisory board (EJAB) to implement standards for buildings that emit greenhouse gases.
The implications of this legislation are far-reaching, particularly for existing buildings that represent a significant portion of the state's emissions. The bill requires the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4) to set building performance standards that buildings must meet over time, thereby promoting retrofits and upgrades. By 2035, building owners will need to demonstrate compliance with these new standards, ensuring that the state's overall emissions trajectory aligns with its climate goals. This marks a crucial shift in Rhode Island's approach to building regulations and energy usage, focusing on sustainable building practices.
S0091, also known as the Building Decarbonization Act of 2025, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings in Rhode Island as part of the state's broader climate initiatives. The bill establishes an Environmental Justice Advisory Board (EJAB) and requires the creation of a comprehensive energy benchmarking program that assesses the energy efficiency and emissions of large buildings. With a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the bill mandates that all new buildings must be constructed to be 'electric-ready,' equipping them with the necessary infrastructure to transition away from fossil fuels.
While the bill garners support from various environmental advocates and organizations focused on sustainability, there may be concerns about its implementation. Building owners and developers might express apprehensions regarding the costs associated with retrofitting existing buildings to meet the new performance standards. Furthermore, some may debate the feasibility of transitioning completely to electric systems, especially in older buildings or those with specific operational requirements. There will likely be discussions on how to balance environmental goals with economic realities, especially in communities facing socio-economic challenges.