Best Practices

Some energy efficiency features may require special training for operations and maintenance personnel. For example, cogeneration and building automation systems require commissioning and operator training.

Emphasize team interaction and construction involvement when defining the project scope with key design team members. Contractor and designer meetings can help ensure correct construction practices and avoid high change-order costs for the owner. 

The architect and mechanical engineer review the shop drawings to confirm the installation of the selected systems.

If the project goes through value engineering, refer to the OPR and

While the LEED Online submittal template does not require detailed documentation for each requirement, it is important that each item be documented in supporting documents and submitted to be reviewed by the rest of the team and the

The mechanical engineer and architect should track the status of each requirement on an on-going basis, through design iterations.

Consider using building information modeling (BIM) tools to keep design decisions up to date and well documented for all team members.

Encourage your design team to brainstorm design innovations and energy-reduction strategies. This provides a communication link among team members so they can make informed decisions.

Involving facilities staff in the design process can further inform key design decisions, helping ensure successful operation and low maintenance costs.

Load reduction requires coordinated efforts by all design members including the architect, lighting designer, interior designer, information-technology manager, and owner. While ASHRAE 90.1-2004 is a good starting point for this effort, don’t plan to stop there: