I am working on a project that is installing reclaimed/recycled water lines to the project, with the goal to offset 60% of irrigation water with recycled water. However, the local water service currently does not have the capacity to provide reclaimed water to the site. This service may become available in the next few years, but a definitive time frame has not yet been given.
Can we still claim the 60% potable water use offset for the purposes of the irrigation credit? Is there a specific time frame that project needs to actually be provided with recycled water (i.e. within 2 years of operation?)
Andrey Kuznetsov
ESG consultant, LEED AP BD+CSelf Employed
5 thumbs up
September 24, 2015 - 6:21 am
Since this credit evaluates the regular operation of the building, I suppose, that would be usefull official letter from the local water service, that states/claims that in "x months" reclaimed/recycled water lines would operate at 100 % capacity.
According to the period, at wich temporary irrigation system for plants and/or additional irrigation for plants establishing is allowed (18 months - p. 183 of Refguide and LEED Reference Guide addendum from 7/19/2010), I suppose, that the mentioned above period of "x months" must be not more than 18 months from assumed building occupation/operation start up.
Does it sound reasonable?