The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced it has delayed the compliance date for new provisions regarding Clean Energy for New Federal Buildings and Major Renovations of Federal Buildings (CER). This action delays the restrictive standards imposed by the previous administration to limit the use of affordable, reliable energy sources, such as coal and natural gas, to power federal buildings in favor of less reliable, more expensive options.

"Under President Trump's leadership, the Department of Energy is embracing a strategy of energy addition – leveraging all sources that are affordable, reliable and secure. This pause will ensure that our federal buildings are able to utilize the most efficient power available, lowering costs and reducing regulatory overreach,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright.

The original regulations, issued on May 1, 2024, required certain new federal buildings and federal buildings undergoing major renovations to reduce their fossil fuel-generated energy consumption. The delay is being implemented while DOE reviews recently released implementation guidance and a template for petitions for downward adjustments. DOE is undertaking this review to ensure alignment with the current Administration’s energy policies, particularly those relating to energy security and reliability.

Today’s action delays the compliance date for one year. During this period, federal agencies are not required to comply with the energy performance standards outlined in the aforementioned regulations. DOE will not process petitions for downward adjustment during its review of the implementation guidance documents.

More information can be found here