Maryland Weakens Building Energy Rules | Annapolis News

Annapolis News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 21, 2026 · 1m

Maryland’s Department of Labor is pushing new building energy rules that critics say gut key efficiency standards—allowing builders to game the system, slash real savings, and saddle residents with higher bills and grid strain. Gone: a mandatory solar requirement for big new buildings. New: loopholes letting builders double-count energy credits. Lawmakers are sounding the alarm, noting the changes may break state law by weakening—not strengthening—codes. With energy efficiency programs already slashed, advocates warn this is a short-term fix with long-term costs for all Marylanders. Listen in…