During the Performance Period

The credit allows project teams to determine their own definition of “low cost.” Energy conservation measures considered “low-cost” are, as a rule of thumb, considered those with an anticipated payback of zero to 18 months. If using a shorter timeframe, project teams should be prepared to justify their decision if needed.

Implement the low-cost or no-cost energy conservation measures identified as a part of EAc2.1: Existing Building Commissioning—Investigation and Analysis. These measures must be implemented by the end of the performance period.

If your building will undergo commissioning, incorporate refrigerant inspection and maintenance tasks into

Ensure that preventive maintenance is performed on any base building equipment using CFC-based refrigerant. Communicate building goals for minimizing refrigerant leakage to appropriate building personnel to aid inspection and tracking of system performance.

Consider monitoring the use and benefit of lighting controls through occupant surveys, per IEQc2.1: Occupant Comfort—Occupant Survey. 

Keep the inventory of controls current, and update whenever lighting systems are altered or if major shifts in tenants or occupancy occur.

Any energy savings associated with lighting controls that have been in place during the project’s 12-month record of energy data will contribute to the building’s performance rating for EAp2: Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance and EAc1: Optimized Energy Performance. 

Research opportunities for rebates or incentives to perform energy audits in your facility. Local power utilities often offer rebate programs for companies making an effort to improve energy efficiency.

Take photos and make video during your walkthrough to document current conditions and opportunities for upgrades to mechanical equipment. This type of documentation may be used to help convince building owners and operators of the need for improvements or as a training tool for new hires.