HR-2044 : Still Just a Bill

Smart Building Acceleration Act

This bill assists the building sector in adopting smart building technology that increases energy efficiency. Smart buildings are buildings with energy systems that (1) are flexible and automated; (2) have extensive operational monitoring and communication connectivity, allowing remote monitoring and analysis of building functions; (3) take a systems-based approach in integrating the overall building operations for control of energy generation, consumption, and storage; (4) communicate with utilities and other third-party commercial entities, if appropriate; (5) protect the health and safety of occupants and workers; and (6) are cybersecure.

Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a Federal Smart Building Program. Under the program, DOE must implement smart building technology in certain federal buildings and demonstrate the costs and benefits of smart buildings.

DOE may expand awards made under the Federal Energy Management Program and the Better Building Challenge to recognize specific federal agency achievements in accelerating the adoption of smart building technologies.

In addition, DOE must conduct (1) a survey of privately owned smart buildings throughout the United States and evaluate their costs and benefits, and (2) research and development on barriers to the integration of advanced building technologies. As part of the Better Building Challenge, DOE must demonstrate policies and approaches that accelerate the transition to smart buildings.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2019-07-17CommitteeOrdered to be Reported by Voice Vote.House committee actions
2019-07-17CommitteeCommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.House committee actions
2019-05-16CommitteeForwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .House committee actions
2019-05-16CommitteeSubcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.House committee actions
2019-04-10CommitteeSubcommittee Hearings Held.House committee actions
2019-04-04CommitteeReferred to the Subcommittee on Energy.House committee actions
2019-04-04CommitteeReferred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.House committee actions
2019-04-03CommitteeReferred to the Subcommittee on Energy.House committee actions
2019-04-03IntroReferralReferred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.House floor actions
2019-04-03IntroReferralReferred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.House floor actions
2019-04-03IntroReferralReferred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.House floor actions
2019-04-03IntroReferralIntroduced in HouseLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Energy
See Subjects
  • Building construction
  • Computer security and identity theft
  • Congressional oversight
  • Energy efficiency and conservation
  • Energy storage, supplies, demand
  • Government buildings, facilities, and property
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Internet and video services
  • Internet, web applications, social media
  • Public contracts and procurement
  • Public utilities and utility rates
  • Research and development
  • Worker safety and health

Related Bills

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