Servers and other network equipment

Hi Dax, Good questions. Based on the latest USGBC addena (http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=6394) page 16, only "items that are purchased after the item's category has become ENERGY STAR eligible must meet the ENERGY STAR rating." It appears that the Energy Star label for servers began on 5/19/09 so if you bought your server before that date you don't need to include it in your credit documentation. This is a good resource: http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/prod_development/downloads/Spec_At-A-Glance_PD.pdf I know that routers are not Energy Star eligible. I am not sure about switches but I'd imagine they are excluded. I also imagine you'd obtain the rated power information like you would for any other Energy Star product; you'd look at the product spec sheet. Hope this helps. Lauren

I recently submitted a LEED CI project for design review where we inventoried all existing Energy Star eligible equipment that was being relocated. My understanding was that this was required similar to Eric's comment above. On Page 16 of the addendum dated 4.16.10, it appears that this is no longer necessary, that only new equipment being purchased for the project should be included. Is this your understanding as well? On a side note: I know that LEED encourages the purchase of new equipment but I also wonder if this should be balanced with the mount of e-waste that is produced when computer equipment is replaced in large office relocations.

Hi Mary, Very interesting comment. I'm still seeking clarification from the USGBC on that specific question. I'll keep you posted. Or you keep me posted if you find out! Thanks, Lauren

So that I am clear, in a commercial kitchen, if a non-Energy Star listed dishwasher is re-used, even though it is re-installed, (connected to power, water, ventilation, etc.) since it was not purchased new, as part of the scope of work, it does not count in the calculations? Thanks.

Yes, that's right.