Skip to content
The Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA) has reshaped how federal infrastructure projects source equipment. For thermal mass flow meter applications, BABAA compliance is essential for project eligibility and competitive positioning.
What Is BABAA Compliance?
The Build America, Buy America Act—enacted under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Pub. L. No. 117-58, §§ 70901–70952)—requires various Federal-aid infrastructure projects to use U.S.-manufactured products.
The cost of components mined, produced, or manufactured in the U.S. must exceed 55% of the total cost of all components. Self-certification enables manufacturers to declare compliance based on a thorough analysis of their supply chain and manufacturing processes, including flow meters.
Why BABAA Matters for Flow Meter Selection
Federal Project Requirements – Public works projects that receive federal aid from agencies like FEMA must demonstrate BABAA compliance. Non-compliant products require lengthy, costly waiver processes that delay projects.
Competitive Advantage – BABAA-compliant flow meters eliminate waiver requirements, streamlining procurement and advancing project timelines for contractors and engineering firms.
Expanding Market Opportunity – The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated over $1.2 trillion for infrastructure upgrades, creating demand for compliant flow meters. Here are some applications where BBA compliance matters:
- Wastewater Treatment Facilities – Federally funded improvements require BABAA-compliant equipment for monitoring aeration, biogas, and digester gas flow.
- Energy Management Systems and (Education Infrastructure) – Government-funded energy efficiency projects, including schools and universities, requiring accurate gas flow measurement that meets FEMA sourcing standards.
- Environmental Monitoring – EPA emissions reporting and carbon credit verification projects require compliant measurement tools.
- Renewable Energy Projects – Biogas and landfill gas-to-energy initiatives benefit from BABAA-compliant flow meters, eliminating procurement delays.
Sage Metering is BABAA Certified
Sage Metering is a Build America, Buy America manufacturer and complies with the BABAA Best Practices. Our thermal mass flow meters are certified to be manufactured and assembled in the United States using qualifying materials and meet FEMA-enforced federal sourcing standards. This certification covers applications measuring natural gas, air, biogas, landfill gas, and digester gas.
Project Planning Benefits
- Streamlined Procurement – Eliminates Buy American waivers and administrative overhead
- Faster Timelines – Avoids waiver delays of several months
- Reduced Risk – Minimizes compliance issues during FEMA audits and project reviews
BABAA’s Long-Term Impact
BABAA compliance will remain essential as federal infrastructure investment continues beyond the current funding cycle. Planning for BABAA requirements positions contractors, engineers, and project owners for success in federal markets while supporting American manufacturing.
Ready to Ensure Your Project Compliance?
Our flow meter specialists are ready to help you navigate BABAA requirements and select the correct meter for your project.
