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CS-v4 EAp2:Minimum energy performance

proposed energy savings for unfinished spaces based on local energy code?

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Erin Holdenried
Sustainable Design Director
Bell Architects
LEEDuser Premium Member
41 thumbs up

Nowadays, many local energy codes are exceeding LEED's ASHRAE 90.1-2010 Baseline.  Has anybody successfully claimed energy savings for unfinished tenant spaces based on local code?

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Fri, 01/30/2026 - 16:35

Yes, the following language from the LEED v4.1 BD+C Guide may be extended to v4 projects (replacing references to 90.1-2016 with 90.1-2010):Local code requirements that are more stringent than ASHRAE 90.1-2016 Appendix G may be modeled for credit in the Proposed Design, subject to the following requirements:
  • Provide a copy of the local code requirements that are more stringent than ASHRAE 90.1-2016. Indicate in writing (highlight or provide section references) how the code will require a project like the one being proposed to follow the code.
  • Provide a binding owner commitment letter paired with sample lease, ensuring that the specific local code requirements modeled will be installed in the building. The sample lease agreement must include language that is specific enough to address the credit claimed (e.g. The project must meet the Seattle Energy Code 2015 Lighting Power requirements using the Building Area Method; OR the project must have 15 SEER air conditioners for systems less than 6 tons, and 11.5 EER air conditioners for systems larger than 5 tons.)
  • Note that credit may not be claimed for measures that would only be implemented in certain tenant configurations, where the binding tenant requirements do not ensure incorporation into the project. For example, credit may not be claimed for daylighting controls that are only required in open-space configurations, without specifying the area that must be fitted out with daylight controls. Similarly, credit may not be claimed for simply stating that the project must meet the local code lighting power requirements, when there are multiple methods for demonstrating lighting compliance.

Fri, 01/30/2026 - 17:07

Tyler gave a great and really comprehensive reply! By following very similar steps, I very recently was able to claim savings based on local code and campus guidelines/new building requirements! The reviewer was really stringent on the letter and it's contents so make sure that's buttoned up really nicely. 

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