Green Energy for Federal Buildings Act
The Green Energy for Federal Buildings Act would amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to dramatically increase the federal government’s use of renewable energy for its electricity needs. It sets a stepped renewable energy purchase target, starting with not less than 7.5 percent in fiscal years 2013–2019, and then rising to not less than 35 percent in 2030–2039, 75 percent in 2040–2049, and 100 percent in 2050 and thereafter. The bill also requires federal agencies, to the maximum extent economically feasible and technically practicable, to procure renewable energy produced on-site at federal facilities, on federal lands, or on Indian lands (as defined in the Energy Policy Act of 1992). The bill is titled the Green Energy for Federal Buildings Act and was introduced in the House with the stated aim of ensuring a fully renewable federal energy supply by mid-century.
Key Points
- 1Sets long-range renewable energy purchase targets: 7.5% (2013–2019), 35% (2030–2039), 75% (2040–2049), and 100% (2050 onward).
- 2Amends Section 203 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to reflect these new targets.
- 3Adds a feasibility standard requiring agencies to maximize renewable energy use produced on-site, on federal lands, or on Indian lands, as feasible and practicable.
- 4Uses the term “Secretary” (aligning with the Energy Policy Act framework) to implement the procurement requirements.
- 5Title of the bill: “Green Energy for Federal Buildings Act,” indicating its focus on federal building energy use and procurement.