Action Steps

Based on new purchases that are planned, develop a list of appliances and equipment that must meet the Energy Star requirement for your project. If it is Energy Star-labeled, then it must be included in the list. At a minimum, this should include office equipment such as computers, fax machines, printers, scanners, and monitors, as well as appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers.

The space-by-space method is a good option for projects that do not fit into one of the building type categories or that require increased LPD allowances for either decorative or merchandise lighting. These types of spaces are allowed higher LPDs, but these increases can only be counted to the extent that they are actually used.

The building area method allows trade-offs to accommodate for increased LPD in specialized spaces.

The building area method is simple and it is an easy one for projects that include only a few space types and can be easily classified as one of the building types listed in ASHRAE, Table 9.5.1. The table refers to a single lighting power allowance for each building type.

Refer to EAc1.1: Optimize Energy Performance—Lighting Power for a more detailed description of these methods and credit achievement.

The calculation addresses total lighting power use, although it can be determined in two different ways: the building area method or the space-by-space method. Review the ASHRAE LPD allowances and space-type definitions. Consider which approach is most appropriate for your project to demonstrate compliance. 

Refer to the ASHRAE 90.1-2007 standard for lighting power density allowances.

In addition to meeting the mandatory requirements, the project must demonstrate that the energy use of the project is equivalent to ASHRAE 90.1-2007. This can be demonstrated by complying with the prescriptive checklist or simulating whole-building energy use with an energy model, also known as the performance option.

Lighting control requirements can present a problem if they are not properly understood early in the design stage. Have your lighting designer become familiar with section 9.4, which spells out the requirements for lighting controls and automation systems.

If you are installing doors and windows, have the architect check required leakage rates and thermal characteristics of assemblies in Section 5.4.