You already addressed this credit as part of the compliance process for IEQp1: Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance. If the measurements you took for IEQp1 indicate that your building has ventilation rates that are at least 30% better than ASHRAE 62.1-2007 for every ventilation distribution system, no further action is required, other than checking that any needed documentation is uploaded.
If, on the other hand, your ventilation rates are not at least 30% better than ASHRAE 62.1-2007, you’ll need to consider whether it is appropriate to pursue this credit.
Pros and cons to more fresh air
If you need to increase ventilation rates throughout the building to reach the 30% threshold, you will also be increasing your HVAC energy consumption and associated costs. This may reduce your overall energy efficiency and compromise your compliance with EAp2: Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance and EAc1: Optimize Energy Performance.
However, more fresh air means potential health and productivity benefits. There is debate in the field about whether this tradeoff is worth it. Consider the specific factors in your building in making a decision.
Use your energy analysis
Use the findings of the ASHRAE Level I Walkthrough completed for EAp1: Energy Efficiency Best Management Practices to give you an idea of how much energy is currently being used by the HVAC system. This analysis will help you to estimate the increase in energy consumption that would occur if current ventilation rates were increased.
A technicality that can help you
You may have a good shot at this credit if your building is currently less densely occupied than the scenario for which it was designed (fewer people per space, not empty spaces). Calculated ventilation rates will appear much higher because there are fewer people using the building than the designers expected.
A challenge for natural ventilation
Buildings that use natural ventilation systems can attempt this credit, but the requirements are more challenging. You’ll need to produce design diagrams or analytic models illustrating compliance with the relevant standards. This compliance path is rarely pursued, although that’s due in part to the small number of naturally ventilated buildings going for LEED-EBOM certification.
Consider these questions when approaching this credit
- Have you already completed the ventilation rate procedure (VRP) calculations and Outdoor Airflow (OA) measurements required for compliance with IEQp1? If not, assess that prerequisite first to gauge whether you already qualify for this credit.
- What do your measurement results from IEQp1 indicate? If the OA ventilation rates are not at least 30% better than ASHRAE 62.1-2007 for each ventilation system, you’ll need to modify those that don’t comply to introduce more outdoor air.
- Do the spaces in your building currently contain fewer people than anticipated by the original design? If your HVAC system is sized properly for the total building area, but your building spaces are sparsely occupied, you may have a good chance at earning this credit.
- Is your building naturally ventilated? If so, the credit requirements are more challenging and time-intensive. Consider whether the additional point is worth the extra work.