In June 2008, the Governor of Indiana issued an Executive Order establishing an energy-efficient state buildings initiative. The order requires the Indiana Department of Administration (DOA) to develop design standards for all new state buildings that require a cost-effectiveness analysis of the building with a goal of achieving energy efficiency. These rules apply to all state agencies, departments, boards, offices, commissions, and public universities. 

The DOA has incorporated the requirements of the Executive Order into Indiana's standard instructions to designers for projects on state-owned buildings. Efficiency can be demonstrated through adherence to any of the following standards:

- A rating of Silver on the USGBC LEED rating system

- A two-globe rating on the Green Building Institute Green Globe rating system

- An EPA ENERGY STAR building rating

- An equivalent rating under a system accredited under the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

The order also requires that renovations or repairs of existing buildings achieve the maximum efficiency level that is cost-effective based on an analysis of construction and operating costs over the life-cycle of the building. Renovations are likewise meant to be carried out with green building guidelines in mind. 

The design standards were last revised in June 2014.

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