Action Steps

Finalize the option your project will attempt under IPMVP Volume I (Option B, C, or D). (See the table above for details on the different options.) 

Determine predicted savings based on the final design estimate minus the baseline case. Calculate as monthly cost savings for the whole building or space, or by system. During this process, try to account for any varying factors that could affect the final design and baseline cases. These could include anything from weather patterns to occupancy levels.  

Be sure to include any necessary language on submetering or tenant payment plans in the lease agreement. This will be needed for credit documentation through LEED Online. 

Upload necessary information to LEED Online, including:

• floor plans
• the lease (or sample lease) 
• a lease documenting an energy-cost agreement (with the agreement highlighted)
• installation records or floor plan documenting the location of submetering equipment
• your M&V plan.

Determine the systems and equipment that need to be monitored and metered, as well as the number of meters required. (See the list of Commonly Monitored Items in the Documentation Toolkit.) 

Create a baseline for comparison to actual measured data. The baseline depends on your building type, its complexity, and the IPMVP option you’ve chosen.

Verify that process water is being submetered, along with lighting, plug loads, heating and cooling. Process water is the only water that needs to be submetered, water for restrooms, kitchens, and janitorial rooms doesn’t need to be submetered. Process water is the only water that needs to be submetered. Process water includes water used for cooling, heating, and domestic hot water. Water for tenant uses such as restrooms, janitorial purposes, and break rooms does not need to be submetered. 

The M&V provider should work with the MEP to verify that all mechanical and electrical systems have the capability, and are designed, to allow metering and submetering. In addition, these systems must be designed to properly interface with any BMS or submetering installed. The M&V provider can verify that the M&V systems installed are capable of providing the information required for the credit.

Determine if there are any incentives or rebates for adding a BMS or for your M&V program. 

Determine the extent of the M&V program based on the owner’s goals, the project type and function, the IPMVP requirements, and the required metering equipment. When determining the extent of the M&V program, establish the specific systems to be monitored.