New asphalt has an SRI value of 0, and weathered asphalt has an SRI value of 6—so asphalt is not a good surface for earning this credit. However, you can try increasing the SRI value of asphalt through light-colored coatings, slurry, emulsion, or chip seals. See the LEED reference guide for typical SRI values of common hardscape materials.

Solar reflectance index (SRI) is the measure of a surface’s ability to reflect solar heat. Higher reflectivity is desired, because it helps combat the urban heat island effect. SRI can range from zero to over 100, with darker surfaces closer to zero and lighter surfaces closer to 100. Surfaces eligible for this credit must have an SRI of at least 29.

Some projects earn this credit with light-colored hardscape, although it can be difficult to do if it’s not already in place.

Light-Colored Hardscape

For parking structures completely located under the building, 100% of spaces are considered compliant.

For buildings with an open-top parking garage, the top level of parking is included in the total parking count, but is counted as not under cover. The top level is not counted as a roof and is not subject to the SRI requirements.

If you already have underground parking or a parking garage, you’re already on the easiest path to earning this credit—at virtually no additional cost. Most projects earn the credit using this option. Fifty percent of the parking must be under cover. 

Parking 

Shading from your own building or adjacent buildings can’t contribute toward achieving this credit.

Zero-lot-line projects with no parking and no non-roof hardscape are not eligible to achieve this credit. However, most zero-lot-line projects will at least have hardscape sidewalks that may qualify under the option for high-SRI hardscapes.