CO SB279

School districts, institute charter schools, and district charter schools receiving state operating funds must ensure new or substantially renovated buildings meet the highest practicable energy efficiency standards, including federal ENERGY STAR Label or highest performance certification, effective January 1, 2014.

Schools may consult with the Colorado Energy Office for best building practices during construction, redesign, or renovation projects, with the intent that the Energy Office use existing resources to provide this assistance.

"High performance standard" is defined as a renovation or construction standard that recovers initial capital costs within 15 years through reduced energy, maintenance, and operating costs while improving indoor environmental quality and protecting the environment.

Schools that meet energy efficiency requirements are encouraged to incorporate the adopted high performance measures into their curriculum.

The act takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, subject to a referendum petition in November 2014.