B_1215_Newsfeed_Federal

Congress Focuses on Energy Efficiency

Dec. 16, 2014

New provisions added before end of session.

With Congress finishing up for the holiday break, several bills were addressed recently that will have an effect on energy efficiency. Chief among the changes implemented was the appropriation of money for the rest of the 2015 fiscal year for many federal departments, including a $25 million increase for the DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Not all energy efficieny programs saw appropriation gains, however, with federal buildings, vehicles, and energy management programs seeing small cuts.

Also passed was the extension of energy efficiency tax credits, which were supposed to expire in December 2013 but will be extended to December 2014. Commercial buildings and residential improvements are included in the tax incentive program, with Congress declining to update qualification levels and leave the existing standards.

Coming close to being enacted but ultimately falling short was the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2014, which would have promoted energy efficient improvements in rental properties, as well as commercial building energy benchmarking and disclosure. While the House has passed the bill, the Senate was looking for unanimous consent, which it did not receive and thus will need to reintroduce the bill next session.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...