CHAPTER 497

S.P. 92 - L.D. 233

An Act To Promote Energy Conservation

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 5 MRSA §1764-A is enacted to read:

§1764-A.__Improvement of energy efficiency in state-funded

construction

1. Definition.__For purposes of this section, "substantially renovated" means any renovation for which the cost exceeds 50% of the building's current value prior to renovation.

2.__Rules.__ The Bureau of General Services, in consultation with the Energy Resources Council and the Public Utilities Commission, shall by rule require that all planning and design for the construction of new or substantially renovated state- owned or state-leased buildings and buildings built with state funds, including buildings funded though state bonds or the Maine Municipal Bond Bank:

A.__Involve consideration of architectural designs and energy systems that show the greatest net benefit over the life of the building by minimizing long-term energy and operating costs;