Montgomery County Council voted unanimously to approve Executive Regulation 17-23AM, Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), which aims
to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions from buildings in Montgomery County.
The measure is essential to implementing Bill 16-21 and provides the details necessary to implement the BEPS program.
The Executive Regulation 17-23AM outlines specific site energy use intensity (EUI) performance standards for each building type, provides a credit for onsite renewable energy towards meeting the performance standard, and provides a framework for Building Performance Improvement Plans. BEPS applies to most commercial and multifamily buildings 25,000 square feet or larger, which total more than 250 million square feet.
“This is a historic step forward in Montgomery County’s commitment to sustainability and an important time for environmental progress in Montgomery County,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “We appreciate the partnership of the County Council and many community members in shaping this program. Their thoughtful and intentional feedback translates into a robust and innovative program that will drive significant emissions reductions while also providing flexibility for property owners and residents. We’re excited to continue working together to build a resilient and energy-efficient future for all.”
Over the past year, the Transportation and Environment Committee hosted seven discussions on the regulations, gathering input from diverse stakeholder groups. In response to the feedback received, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) adjusted the regulations, which the County Executive transmitted on Jan. 22, 2025. The updated regulations provide greater flexibility for building owners to meet the performance standards while still achieving substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Learn more about this initiative on the county website and at the county’s upcoming Energy Summit.
