Teams can earn up to five points under this credit. There are three standard paths to earning an IN point:

Innovation

Achieve significant, measurable environmental benefits using a strategy that isn’t currently addressed in the LEEDv4 BD+C rating system.

Remember that a single sustainable technology or a program that addresses a single sustainability issue will not be accepted. The LEED Reference Guide includes examples of both suggested and ineligible innovation strategies. One option is to use the school as a teaching tool, which was a credit in LEED 2009 and is now in the innovation catalogue. See LEEDuser's ideas for this strategy: School as a Teaching Tool Curriculum Ideas.

Exemplary Performance

Exceed the performance threshold in an existing credit. Remember that Exemplary Performance (EP) is not an option for all credits. Check the LEED Reference Guide to confirm whether EP is allowed for a particular credit, and if it is, the minimum performance threshold you’ll need to meet to earn it.

Pilot Credit

Achieve a credit from the LEED Pilot Credit Library for LEEDv4 BD+C projects. Remember that any time you pursue a pilot credit your team must complete the “General Pilot Documentation Requirements” as well, which includes registering for the pilot credit with USGBC, participating in the LEEDuser pilot credit forum, and completing the USGBC feedback survey.

What’s New in LEED v4

• Teams can earn up to two points for exemplary performance, a reduction from the three exemplary performance points allowable under LEED 2009.