More energy-efficient HVAC equipment can cost more relative to conventional equipment. However, by reducing heating and cooling loads through good passive design, the mechanical engineer can often reduce the size and cost of the system. Reduced system size can save money through:
smaller chillers or boilers;
smaller fans, used less frequently;
smaller pumps and auxiliary systems;
smaller ducts;
and less square footage devoted to mechanical systems.
To avoid costly, last-minute decisions, develop a comprehensive, component-based cost model as a decision matrix for your project. The model will help establish additional cost requirements for each energy conservation measure. It will also illustrate cost reductions from decreased equipment size, construction rendered unnecessary by energy conservation measures, and reduced architectural provisions for space and equipment access. (See the Documentation Toolkit for an example.)
Sometimes teams change from Option 1 to Options 2 or 3 very late in the design phase for various reasons including not realizing the cost of energy modeling. Making that change is risky, though: the prescriptive paths are all-or-nothing—you must comply with every item, without exception. Evaluate each requirement and consult with the contractor and estimator to ensure the inclusion of all activities within project management.
Although Option 2 is generally lower cost during the design phase than energy modeling, the compliance path is top heavy—it requires additional meeting time upfront for key design members.
Energy-efficient design can increase your construction budget. Use your computer model to optimize packages of upgrades that balance any added costs against cost savings, and run payback analyses to identify the most cost-effective options.
Some energy-modeling software tools have a daylight-modeling capability. Using the same model for both energy and EQc8.1: Daylight and Views—Daylight can greatly reduce the cost of your modeling efforts.
Schedule the application of paints and coatings so that off-gassing does not contaminate other absorptive materials. This is required if projects are attempting EQc3.1: Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan—During Construction. For example, do not store or install acoustic ceiling tile before flooring and wall paints are put down, because ceiling tiles will absorb the off-gassing of paint and contaminate the air over a longer time period.
The setup costs for this option may be considerable. Research tax incentives offered by federal, state, or local governments for purchasing alternative-fuel vehicles. This could help offset some of the initial costs.
Establishing a regular shuttle for building occupants to a transportation hub (for alternative compliance when a project doesn’t meet the basic credit requirements) can add additional costs. However, making commuting easier for your employees, or making your building more accessible to customers can pay off in productivity or sales.
If you need to modify existing hardscapes to meet the prescriptive goals of the credit, you can face added costs.