H.R. 4690 — Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act

This section revises federal building energy efficiency performance standards by striking prior requirements in subclauses (I) and (II) of section 305(a)(3)(D)(i) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act of 1976 (42 U.S.C. 6834(a)(3)(D)(i))—which had mandated life-cycle assessments and reductions in embodied greenhouse gas emissions from materials—and prohibiting certification systems from denying green or high-performance green building status solely due to direct or indirect fossil fuel consumption. The section (1) repeals Subpart B of 10 C.F.R. parts 433 and 435; (2) directs interim implementation of the revised standards as if the struck requirements never took effect, pending new regulations; (3) makes a conforming amendment to section 436(h) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17092(h)) with the same prohibition; and (4) requires the Secretary of Energy to issue necessary new or revised regulations within 180 days of enactment. (Thus, federal agencies designing new buildings and major renovations may incorporate fossil fuels without forfeiting eligibility for green building certifications.)