The U.S. Department of Energy has issued a new rule banning fossil fuels from newly built and renovated federal buildings, in line with the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. This rule mandates a phased reduction in fossil fuel usage, with federal buildings required to phase out the use of fossil fuel-generated energy by 2030. This rule had been pending due to regulatory delays but has now been finalized.
Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm emphasized the significance of this rule, highlighting the federal government’s commitment to energy efficiency and cost savings. With commercial and residential buildings contributing 13% of direct greenhouse gas emissions primarily from burning natural gas, the focus has now shifted towards electrification. This involves transitioning from gas to cleaner electricity sources such as wind and solar power.
Despite the absence of regulations enforcing the removal of gas-fired appliances, some federal buildings continue to install them. For example, Independence Hall in Philadelphia plans to switch to gas-fired boilers instead of remaining connected to a city-wide steam loop for heating. The implementation of the new rule aims to accelerate the electrification of federal sites as envisioned in EISA’s Section 433, advocating for technological advancements and cost reductions in climate-friendly measures.
In conjunction with Executive Order 14057 and other Federal Sustainability Plan initiatives, the new rule is aligned with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045, supported by DOE’s Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP). FEMP will provide guidance and resources to assist agencies in achieving compliance, facilitating clean energy deployment and phasing out on-site fossil fuel usage. This milestone reflects extensive engagement with federal stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of clean energy within the federal building sector.
The Energy Department faced delays in implementing the rule largely due to opposition from natural gas utilities concerned about potential business losses. The American Gas Association criticized the final rule, citing cost increases and lack of environmental benefits. However, the Energy Department’s analysis projects that the rule will reduce carbon emissions by 2 million metric tons and methane emissions by 16 thousand tons, equivalent to the emissions of nearly 310,000 homes annually.
Overall, the finalization of this rule marks a significant step towards reducing fossil fuel usage and transitioning to cleaner energy sources within federal buildings. With a focus on increasing energy efficiency and cost savings, the rule aligns with broader sustainability goals and aims to drive technological advancements and cost reductions in climate-friendly measures. Through collaboration with federal stakeholders and support from FEMP, the federal government is taking proactive steps to achieve net-zero emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
