The mechanical system design often includes the distribution of air and a refrigerated or heated medium. Pumps and fans are large components of energy usage. Use variable-frequency drive pumps and a variable-air-volume distribution system to address fluctuating demand. Install sensors and controls to maintain air volumes and reduce energy waste during low-occupancy periods.

Using an integrated design process, the team can easily reduce energy usage below ASHRAE 90.1-2007 thresholds. When designing the lighting layout, the team can take into account the daylighting design of the space in order to reduce the number of fixtures and lower the wattage. The architect can finish the interior space to further enhance lighting efficacy and reduce dependence on mechanical cooling and heating. If appropriate, the mechanical designer should evaluate underfloor air distribution or radiant heat instead of ducted air for higher efficiency. 

Confirm that the established energy-efficiency measures are incorporated into your design. Identify any questions left open or strategies not included and analyze the potential long-term energy savings before ruling out a strategy that the team or owner is considering eliminating because of its perceived high cost. 

From your list of appliances and equipment, create a table that includes power rating for each entry, and whether each is Energy Star-labeled. Add the power usage for each piece of equipment on your list, including Energy Star-labeled equipment. The percentage of total power usage from Energy Star-labeled equipment should be at least 50%.  

“Rated power” refers to the maximum amount of power that can be drawn by a piece of equipment at any given time. Be sure to use this for each appliance and piece of equipment to be consistent in your documentation.

Add the rated power for each piece of new equipment to the list of appliances and equipment that you began during the predesign phase. When the rated power is not easily available from product data sheets, refer to the Energy Star website. 

Energy Star-labeled Equipment and Appliances – 50%

With early design direction and energy-efficient fixture selection, lighting power density can easily be reduced by 10% with little or no additional cost. 

Use halogen and incandescent lamps with high power density sparingly or not at all, as they can prevent you from meeting the prerequisite.

Lighting loads can be reduced through the use of indirect lighting design, lower ambient light levels with increased task lighting, and efficient fixtures such as LEDs, T5 fluorescent lighting, and compact fluorescent lighting.