One of our clients is considering the possibility of certifying a large Warehouse/Distribution Center under LEEDv4, which includes a significant portion of refrigerated spaces.

According to LEED interpretation # 10424  “project teams may use the IARW/IACSC Energy Modeling Guideline for Cold Storage and Refrigerated Warehouse Facilities as an exceptional calculation methodology when ASHRAE 90.1-2010 is used for compliance with EA Prerequisite Minimum Energy Performance”

The question is how to calculate the points associated with energy performance, taking into into account the fact that the project includes a portion that is refrigerated and a portion that is not refrigerated.

Our proposal is as follows:

  1. Non-refrigerated portion of the building: follow ASHRAE 90-1 – 2010 appendix G methodology. Baseline HVAC system selection shall be based on Warehouse area that is not refrigerated.
  2. Refrigerated portion of the building: follow “IARW/IACSC Energy Modeling Guideline for Cold Storage and Refrigerated Warehouse Facilities” as an exceptional calculation methodology.
  3. LEED points: calculated using the defaults points associated with the percentage improvement on energy costs. Energy costs (both baseline and proposed building) area calculated as the sum of non-refrigerated and refrigerated portions of the building.

Do you agree with this approach?

Thanks for your attention. I’m looking forward to your reply.