Does a BAS qualify?

Hi Matthew - A BAS could be part of compliance with this credit. However, as I'm sure you know, in order for a BAS to track energy consumption by end use, it will have to be connected to building meters and submeters. It is the extent and coverage of these submeters that is the main focus of this credit. However, a BAS can certainly help with the requirement that meters be read "continuously, automatically, and electronically" (p. 199 of the LEED Reference Guide for Green Building Operations and Maintenance). Other electronic monitoring systems can serve this function as well.

If the BAS tracks run time of Air Handlers, is it possible to derive their energy use by comparing run time to the unit's rated energy consumption? This would be much cheaper than submetering.

I'm not sure that would fulfill the energy metering requirement Nell. I'm concerned that if you multiply the rated energy consumption by the run time you may get inaccurate results. For example, the compressor in the AC unit may not run all the time, or the fan may ramp up and down with a speed drive or pressure fluctuations on the system. This method would only work if the air handlers ran at factory-tested conditions every time they were turned on.

Is it possible to get a determination from the USGBC if they will accept BAS "virtual meters," such as: - Spot-measured, constant-load motors with integrated average runtime recorded every 15 minutes; or - kW signals from VFDs, chillers, etc. with integrated average values recorded every 15 minutes? And the list goes on. I believe there is a good argument for meeting the intent of this credit using these techniques as long as the "meters" are fairly accurate, but more importantly that they are repeatable for reliable (comparative) management purposes. Anyone in a position to gain such a determination?

"Anyone in a position to gain such a determination?" You are, if you have a registered LEED project. Submit a credit interpretation request.