The cost implications for ECM isolation depend on how many meters are installed and the complexity of the systems being monitored. See the appendix in ASHRAE, Guideline 14 for estimating the cost of meters. If systems are easily isolated and don’t require many meters, this credit can be relatively cheap, with Option B being more cost-effective than Option D.
The cost of M&V varies significantly from one project to another. Projects will need to get project-specific bids based on their individual design needs. The usefulness and the cost of M&V plans are influenced by the following:
Utility companies may provide incentives or rebates for submetering and BMS programs. For example, New York City provides $2,000 per meter for advanced master meter installation in affordable housing and $1,500 per meter for market-rate housing. Check with your local utility to see if they provide any rebates.
Solicit multiple proposals for the purchase of RECs and carbon offsets to ensure competitive pricing. Pricing can change rapidly as markets change, and will vary from provider to provider.
Third-party financing for renewable energy systems is offered in some places as part of a power purchase agreement (PPA). These systems may be installed on a building site with no upfront cost to the building owner.
Some buildings producing onsite renewable energysell RECs to help finance the systems. Selling the RECs means that someone else can claim the environmental benefits of that power (potentially helping them with this LEED credit). That precludes you from counting that power toward this credit however.
