Benchmarking Standards for Maryland Buildings
Our Mission‑Driven Approach in Maryland
Maryland Building Energy Performance Standards
Performance Metrics
Net direct emissions standards (kg CO2e per square foot) for interim standards and Site EUI Standards (kBTU per square foot) for the final standard for 2040 and beyond.
Performance Targets/Standards
Existing buildings over 35,000 square feet achieve a 20% reduction in net direct greenhouse gas emissions on or before January 1, 2030, as compared with 2025 levels for average buildings of similar construction; and net–zero direct greenhouse gas emissions on or before January 1, 2040.
Compliance Pathways
Buildings must meet interim and final net direct emissions and final site EUI standards according to their property type.
Exemptions
Single family, fast food restaurants, food services, restaurants, and parking are exempt from BPS. Other exemptions: • No Certificate of Occupancy for all 12 months prior to compliance date • Building unoccupied • Financial distress • Building was demolished during calendar year • Properties are exempt from establishing base- line performance if building was less than 50% occupied for at least 180 days. A building may not receive exemption from establishing baseline performance for more than three years
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Maryland Building Energy Performance Standards
Policy Name
Climate Solutions Now Act (SB 528)
Year Enacted
2022
Covered Buildings
Public/Gov’t, Comm, & MF buildings ≥ 35,000 sq. ft.
Compliance Cycle
Five year cycle starting in 2030 and final standards in 2040.
Enforcement
Payments will be based on the social cost of carbon and rules have not been set for this in Maryland as of yet. The Social Cost of Greenhouse Gases in 2030 are estimated to average $230 per metric ton of CO2e.
