Best Practices

Some rules of thumb to reduce energy use are:

Develop a precedent for energy targets by conducting research on similar building types and using the EPA’s Target Finder program. (See Resources.)

Consider stating big picture goals for the project in terms of minimum efficiency levels and specific payback periods. For example: “Our goal is to exceed a 20% reduction from ASHRAE 90.1, with all efficiency measures having a payback period of 10 years or less.”

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.

During LEED submission, your project team needs to make an extra effort to support the credit with the completed checklist and the required documents. Although not every requirement may be mentioned in the LEED documentation, the supporting documents need to cover all requirements with narratives, wall sections, mechanical drawings, and calculations.

During LEED submission, the project team needs to make an extra effort to support the credit documentation with the completed checklist and the required documents. Although the LEED rating system does not list detailed documentation, it is best practice to send in supporting documents for the prescriptive requirements from the AEDG. The supporting documents should include relevant narratives, wall sections, mechanical drawings, and calculations.

It is common for the LEED reviewers to make requests for more information. Go along with the process—it doesn’t mean that you’ve lost the credit. Provide as much information for LEED Online submittal as requested and possible.

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.

Contracting with a commissioning agent for the expanded scope of EAc3: Enhanced Commissioning is highly recommended.

The architect and HVAC engineer should agree on the design, working with the cost estimator and owner.