Interlocked Natural Ventilation and Mechanical Systems. The Tutt Science Center is designed to utilize both natural ventilation and mechanical environmental systems. In the temperate yet changeable spring and fall as well as the generally moderate summer, the Colorado Springs climate is often quite livable without artificial climates. However, designers of mechanical systems are often reluctant to include operable windows in their designs due to the perception that the windows will waste energy, create pressurization problems, and complicate the mechanical controls. To eliminate this perception and encourage the use of operable windows even in "difficult" applications (such as this teaching laboratory), the Tutt Science Center project will employ an operable window system that alleviates these concerns. The windows will have a built-in sensor that simply shuts of the mechanical system in that space whenever the window is open. This gives the occupant the ability to control the space without interfering with the operation of the mechanical system for the rest of the building. Operational instructions will be included for all tenants. Our question is, will employing this type of technology qualify for an innovation credit?
In and of themselves, it is unclear on what basis an innovation point would be awarded for interlocking window/HVAC controls. The LEED requirements for an innovation credit are that you identify the intent of the innovation, a proposed requirement for compliance, and describe and provide information necessary to demonstrate that you meet the proposed intent. Your innovation credit proposal should propose and provide a basis for evaluation. Innovation points are awarded for exemplary performance and for strategies or technological innovations. The system as described does not appear to meet either of these criteria. Turning off conditioning systems when they are not needed is a form of active controls, a common HVAC systems feature. The switch to passive mode may produce energy savings that can earn points under EA Credit 1. Innovation credits are reviewed first on the basis of whether they accomplish things that are already covered by the existing credit structure. In this case, when you define the intent of the interlocking controls, you may find that the results you are seeking (I.e. energy efficiency, or occupant control) can already be awarded under existing LEED credit categories.