Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Releases Agency Climate Plan to Meet Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets
NEW CARROLLTON, MD (January 7, 2025) – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has released an agency climate plan as part of a “whole of government” strategy focused on cutting harmful emissions and building the green economy in line with the state’s Climate Pollution Reduction Plan. The department is committed to implementing various strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while benefiting overburdened and underserved communities. The comprehensive approach encompasses energy efficiency, sustainable construction practices, renewable energy adoption and community engagement.
“We don’t have to choose between a green economy and a growing economy — we can, and we must, build both at the same time,” said Governor Wes Moore. “By mounting an all-of-government approach to climate action, we will cut emissions, lower costs, and create more than 27,000 Maryland jobs. I thank my colleagues for their detailed proposals.”
On December 20, the Maryland Department of the Environment released 25 agency plans that include over 100 priority actions to meet the state’s climate goals, including workforce development for installing clean appliances like heat pumps, electrifying vehicle fleets, making state buildings more energy efficient and diversifying the state’s energy portfolio. In June, Gov. Moore issued an executive order creating the Climate Subcabinet and directing all agencies to complete Climate Implementation Plans by the end of 2024. State agencies will begin implementing the plans in 2025.
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has been implementing energy efficiency programs that support the State greenhouse gas reduction efforts and address climate change for decades, such as the EmPOWER Limited Income Energy Efficiency Programs, Multifamily Energy Efficiency and Housing Affordability Program, BeSmart Home Energy Loan Program, and others. The department also operates more than 40 programs related to housing and community development, many of which fund construction projects.
Recommended actions outlined in the Department’s plan include:
- Promoting the application of efficient building codes in construction projects
- Promoting the switch to clean fuels in construction projects
- Promoting the inclusion of renewable energy systems in construction projects
- Including greenhouse gas resources into funding stack for construction projects
- Reviewing and improving the building operations protocols of the agency’s office locations
- Connecting program applicants with existing resources for greenhouse gas savings
- Promoting high density and transit oriented new development
In alignment with the Department’s goal to emphasize partnerships with community-based organizations that work directly with underserved populations, the plan prioritizes targeting funds to projects with a focus on equity and environmental justice, as well as encouraging the use of higher efficiency construction standards and the inclusion of renewable energy systems in construction projects for organizations seeking tax credits for construction projects.
“Whether building new housing, making existing homes more energy efficient, or building vibrant communities, we must ensure that this work supports a more climate-resilient and sustainable Maryland,” said Maryland Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “The Department’s new climate implementation plan will serve as a North Star as we continue our efforts to create dignified, affordable housing in lovable, just communities for all Marylanders.”
The Moore-Miller Administration last year announced a $90 million down payment on the state’s climate plan to help make Maryland a leader in clean energy and the greenest state in the country. The Administration remains committed to the State’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2031 and achieving 100 percent clean energy by 2035.
To learn more about the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s energy efficiency programs, visit our website.
###