Hi,
Does it matter if the energy is consumed by the building directly or fed into the grid (what we do with FIT projects) to get the LEED point associated with Renewable energy category.
The power under FIT program is generated by the building but not consumed by the building directly. Does that matter? and Can the building still get the points as far it is generating power
John-David Hutchison, LEED AP BD+C, PMP
Sustainability ManagerBGIS
LEEDuser Expert
166 thumbs up
August 24, 2016 - 12:46 pm
As per CaGBC CIR 776: PV Systems Pursuing FIT:
Yes, a LEED Canada NC 2009 project can take credit for the electricity generated by a PV system installed on its roof under EAc1 and EAc2 in either scenario (Owner owns the PV system or Owner leases roof space to a solar developer).
In general, a project will be eligible to achieve points under EAc2 and qualify for renewable energy credits for the system under EAc1 if the project meets the following conditions:
1. The renewable energy system is installed within the boundaries of the project or on the project site.
2. It can be demonstrated that the renewable energy produced would not exceed the annual consumption of the building(s) within the LEED site boundary.
For greater clarity:
- Electricity generated by on-site renewable energy and then sent to the grid is eligible under EAc1 and EAc2.
- The electric renewable energy system connection can be located upstream or downstream of the building utility meter as long as the energy production of the system is metered.
- The owner of the system can choose to retain, retire or sell the environmental attributes.
- For the purposes of LEED Canada NC and LEED Canada CS 2009, renewable energy is only defined as "sold" if the production capacity exceeds the building annual consumption.