Ex. Summary:

House Bill 21-1286 sets energy performance standards for large buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet, mandating annual energy-use benchmarking and phased efficiency improvements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation requires a 7% reduction in emissions by 2026 and a 20% reduction by 2030, with increasingly rigorous targets through 2050. To facilitate compliance, the Colorado Energy Office and the Air Quality Control Commission will establish enforcement rules, offer technical assistance, and provide financial incentives. At the same time, utilities must furnish energy usage data for benchmarking. Building owners are required to implement efficiency upgrades, facing penalties for non-compliance. The bill furthers Colorado's climate action objectives by decreasing energy consumption, lowering operational costs, and generating clean energy jobs while promoting a more sustainable built environment.