We have a building that is an ENERGY STAR-eligible building type but has a score that is less than 75 and unable to achieve 75. Using Case 1 it would not qualify. However, the building is able to demonstrate a 25% reduction over a 5 year baseline within 3 consecutive years. We would like to pursue LEED v4 Existing Buildings. Are we able to use Case 2, option 1 or 2? If not, what is the guidance to allow buildings that are ENERGY STAR Eligible but cannot meet the 75 score threshold?”
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Edward Malesevich
Sustainability AdvisorTranswestern Sustainability Services
13 thumbs up
September 25, 2014 - 5:11 pm
Hi Alexa,
Case 2 can only be utilized if the building is not eligible to receive an ENERGY STAR rating. The reference guide states that Case 1 is required for building types eligible for ENERGY STAR rating, as listed on the ENERGY STAR website. So if the building can receive a score, you'll have to submit using Case 1 and will need to achieve a rating of at least 75.
In order to comply with the prerequisite, the building will have to increase its rating by improving its energy performance. The short answer to do this is to perform an energy audit (EAp1) and commission the existing equipment (EAc1, EAc2, and EAc3). This might take some time to see your rating improve, but this documentation can be utilized when the building reaches the eligible rating.
Alexa Stone
ecoPreserveSeptember 15, 2015 - 9:53 am
For Case 2 option 2, is the 3-year contiguous history supposed to be averaged to compare against 1-year of current data? Also, if Case 2 is utilized, does the Team have to consider using Option 1 before Option 2? Or can the team decide which option they want to pursue?
Edward Malesevich
Sustainability AdvisorTranswestern Sustainability Services
13 thumbs up
September 16, 2015 - 11:07 am
Hi Alexa,
I responded to your first question above, but yes the three consecutive years of data would be averaged. Concerning the different options, you are able to choose which option you would like to pursue. Just a reminder that the different options allow you to achieve a different number of points.