My client has installed a large solar array on top of the parking garage. The output is 160kWh annually. Based on the whole building energy model we can max out the possible points in EAc1 and EAc2 with 100kWh of the energy produced by the array. Can the client sell RECs for the additional 60kWh to help offset the cost of installation? If so, should this be explained in a narrative and submitted to the reviewer or should we run the models based on the 100kWh production required and leave out the 60kWh they plan on using for the RECs? I believe this is an appropriate path to pursue and fulfills the intent of the credits while provided a funding source to help offset the cost of the array.
In addition; does anyone know of a CIR that deals with this issue? Thanks!
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Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5867 thumbs up
January 18, 2013 - 11:24 am
Sure I do not see why not. Yes it should be explained to the reviewer.
I do not know the number but there is an Interpretation that requires the replacement of sold RECs.
My personal opinion is you should be able to sell all the RECs and still count it for your LEED project. Why should LEED discourage the use of a viable funding stream that enables renewable energy projects? It shouldn't IMO.
Todd Bundren
Associate Principal - Director of SustainabiltyLawrence Group
14 thumbs up
January 18, 2013 - 12:01 pm
Thank you for the follow-up Marcus. I aggree and will pursue this strategy. In addtion: I will try to dig up the CIR, but please let me know if you remember the number. As always: thank you for the help!