Determine the best infrastructure for a metering network. The system must be installed in a central location and have the capability to expand to metering tenant spaces. Although for this credit you do not actually have to meter tenant spaces, you do need to provide the means for tenants to connect to the system. You’ll also need to include a section in the M&V plan on developing corrective actions if the measurements of tenants’ actual energy use differ from those predicted.
Discuss as a team whether M&V will contribute to project goals for energy reduction and system monitoring. Consider your project’s size, complexity, and tenant needs. Also think about how the building is likely to be operated. If an M&V program is not likely to be fully utilized, it may not be worth the investment.
The “M&V provider” develops the M&V plan. This role can be filled by the commissioning agent, energy modeler, mechanical engineer, project engineer, or a facilities manager.
Consider the impact of an M&V program on mechanical system design requirements. Keep in mind that a tenant’s mechanical system must be capable of providing the necessary outputs for the monitoring or submetering system. Typically, the outputs are energy usage stated as kWs, BTUs, or therms over a given period of time.
You’ll need to write an M&V plan that provides guidance for future tenants. The plan should encourage tenants to submeter their space, and should provide guidance on attempting LEED-CI EAc3. You’ll also need to provide information on developing corrective actions if the M&V program indicates that the assumed energy savings are not being achieved.
Determine whether attempting EAc5.1, EAc5.2, or both is best for your project. Achieving both will earn your project a total of six points. You can attempt one or both—neither is dependent on the other.
Discuss as a team whether M&V will contribute to your project’s goals for energy reduction and system monitoring. Consider your project’s size, its complexity, and your tenants’ needs. Also think about how the building will be operated. If the M&V program is not likely to be fully utilized by the tenants, it may not be an appropriate investment.
Energy savings is verified by either comparing the calibrated, as-built model to the calibrated, baseline model—or by comparing calibrated, baseline energy use to actual metered energy use.
Include actual occupancy and weather data when calibrating the energy simulation model after the building’s first-year energy usage data becomes available. The energy modeler performs the calibrated simulation with the assistance of the M&V provider.
