You can’t pursue EAc2.2 without first having EAc2.1 in your pocket. In the first credit, EAc2.1, the project team determines possible energy conservation measures. In the second credit, EAc2.2, the project team implements all of those energy efficiency measures identified as low-cost and no-cost. These might include things like replacing T12 lamps with T8 lamps, reprogramming building system controls, and reconfiguring building system set points.
Projects that pursue EAc2.1 generally always pursue EAc2.2 as well. Pursuit of this credit directly supports increased energy savings and thus helps earn points under EAc1: Optimize Energy Efficiency Performance.
Provide staff training
Staff training is the second piece of this credit. It’s also easy to implement, but is sometimes overlooked.
The credit simply requires the project provide facility managers, engineers, and major-systems equipment operators with training that “builds awareness and skills in a broad range of sustainable building operations topics.” (See credit language for more.)
The credit doesn’t have a minimum training requirement, but LEED recommends 24 hours per staff person per year.
Training can be undertaken through programs established by industry organizations like BOMA or ASHRAE or may be conducted with an equipment manufacturer or controls contractor or through a third-party commissioning firm. Training should be related to the efficient operations and maintenance of the building.
Each of the three Adobe Towers is LEED-EBOM Platinum. Since 2001, a total of $2.3 million in capital costs (including $483,000 in rebates) has resulted in 47% reduced electric use, 42% reduced gas use, and 48% reduced water use, which add up to an annual savings of $1.6 million. Proactive staff involvement and training has been a key component of the success there.
Photo– William PorterConsider these questions when approaching this credit
- Are we prepared to quickly implement low- and no-cost operational improvements identified in the commissioning or auditing process conducted as a part of EAc2.1?
- What level of training do building operators and managers currently receive? Do we or can we meet the LEED recommendation to provide 24 hours of energy efficiency related training to each staff member each year?
