The US government will keep building fossil fuel infrastructure in federal buildings
What happened
The Department of Energy is pausing new rules that would have banned fossil fuel equipment in new federal buildings and major renovations. This means federal construction projects can continue to install natural gas furnaces and other fossil fuel systems.
Why it matters
The US government is one of the world's largest property owners and a major driver of construction standards. This pause means federal agencies will not have to switch to electric heating and cooling systems in their new buildings. It also signals a shift in the Biden administration's climate policy, moving away from direct mandates on federal infrastructure.
The signal
Watch for the Department of Energy's updated guidance and whether it reintroduces any restrictions on fossil fuels in federal buildings, or if the pause becomes permanent.