In the latest chapter of Maryland’s game plan to decarbonize the state’s buildings, the Maryland Department of Energy (MDE) proposed last week a modified set of regulations setting interim standards for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. InSite is here to catch you up on what you need to know, and what you can do, about all things relating to Maryland BEPS:Â
1. Maryland Buildings Represent one third of statewide GHG emissions
According to Maryland’s GHG Emissions Inventory, direct fuel use in buildings produced nearly 14 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO2e) in 2020. Electricity consumption, almost all of which was consumed in buildings, generated approximately 18 MMTCO2e in 2020. These numbers cannot sustain a healthy environment and violate the objectives of our governments working to reduce or even eliminate Greenhouse Gas emissions.
2. Maryland First Set BEPS Regulations in Dec 2023
In December 2023, in alignment with the Climate Solutions Now Act (CSNA) of 2022, Maryland set goals to reduce statewide GHG emissions by 60% below 2006 levels by 2031 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. Among these requirements, Maryland implemented Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS). At the Maryland State legislative meeting held July 15, 2024 addressing mandates for building owners, the Maryland BEPS regulations mostly remain unchanged.
3. Buildings Over 35,000 Sq Ft Have Strict Mandates to Follow
While historic buildings, elementary & secondary schools, manufacturing, agricultural, and federal buildings are exempt, all other buildings over 35,000 square feet must collect and submit their buildings’ energy performance data for calendar year 2024 by June 1, 2025. This data must be verified by a third party and submitted through ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager®.Â
Additionally, these buildings must meet the following Maryland BEPS goals as identified by MDE:Â
- Achieve a 20% reduction in net direct GHG emissions on or before January 1, 2030, as compared to 2025 levels for average buildings of similar construction 
- Attain net-zero direct GHG emissions on or before January 1, 2040
- Include EUI targets by the building’s type
4. Amendments Clarified Timing for Compliance
MDE plans to adopt energy use intensity (EUI) standards in 2027 following the submission of a report to the General Assembly and calculation of EUI standards based on data reported to MDE in 2026. EUI standards are important for promoting efficient electrification to enable Maryland’s clean energy transition, minimize electricity grid impacts, and achieve Maryland’s goal of net-zero GHG emissions by 2045.
Buildings must start annual reporting of EUI and emission data on June 1, 2025 (instead of December 2023),and must include data for the entire 2024 calendar year. Final EUI standards will be proposed in 2027.
5. Non-Compliance Penalties Will Be Implemented
MDE has also proposed penalties for properties that fail to meet EUI standards. These penalties could run as high as $25,000 a day.
Additionally, between 2025 and 2040, building owners whose buildings do not already meet the BEPS standards will be required to implement energy efficiency measures and/or electrification measures or pay alternative compliance fees.
The Good News
The Maryland BEPS regulations can lead to significant energy savings and returns on investment for building owners (ranging from $4.47 – $9.29 per sq. ft.). Implementing energy efficiency measures not only helps track against GHG emission reduction goals, it also saves building owners money through reduced energy costs.
How InSite Can Help
Simplify Building Data with InSite
Technology-Powered Precision
 InSite utilizes an advanced technology platform to efficiently gather and process building data, ensuring a comprehensive building intelligence experience. Through APIs and direct connections, InSite meticulously validates client data before submission for certification programs to performance frameworks like ENERGY STAR® and sustainability reporting frameworks like GRESB.
Trusted Excellence
Speak with us about how InSite can help you navigate Maryland BEPS and take you on your PATH to decarbonization.
