With Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) firmly in place after the November 2024 election, businesses, institutions, and building owners are facing new requirements and opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe). Signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee in 2021, the CCA includes the nation’s second market-based cap-and-invest program, targeting a 50% reduction in GHGe by 2030 and 95% by 2050. Following the November 2024 election, the CCA remains firmly intact as Washington voters rejected Initiative 2117, which aimed to repeal it. This decision reinforces the CCA’s critical role in meeting Washington’s GHGe reduction goals and the state’s commitment to decarbonization and clean energy.
The Clean Buildings Act (House Bill 1257) supports the CCA by enforcing energy performance standards for large buildings, with compliance deadlines set based on size. Additionally, House Bill 1390 offers an alternative compliance pathway for facilities connected to district energy systems. Together, these policies encourage energy efficiency and GHGe reduction.
Steps for Compliance
With the first compliance deadlines approaching, now is the time for building owners to prepare. Early action, such as tracking Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and establishing an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plan, can help ensure smooth compliance and avoid penalties.
OAC assists clients with carbon benchmarking, EUI tracking, and strategy development to meet Washington’s compliance requirements. For more information, click below to read OAC’s comprehensive white paper on Washington’s Climate Commitment Act and learn how to position your facilities for success.
