Before the Performance Period

Onsite renewable energy is generally more technically difficult and expensive than offsite. Recognizing this, the credit rewards points at a faster rate if you choose onsite renewables. You can earn one to six points for 25%–100% offsite

Choosing onsite versus off-site renewable energy

Point thresholds for this credit apply not only to electricity but to total energy use within the building, including natural gas, propane, purchased steam, and fuel oil.

Investments in energy efficiency are usually more cost-effective than onsite renewable energy. However, if you’ve picked that “low-hanging fruit” and want to enhance your building’s environmental profile, renewables can be cost-effective.

It is uncommon for buildings to earn this credit due to the cost of either onsite renewable retrofits or off-site RECs and carbon offsets.

This credit requires you to use onsite renewable energy, purchase offsite

Application materials used for the initial LEED certification should be a source of some ready-to-use documents, such as manufacturers' specifications and building plans. Be sure to leverage these project documents whenever possible during the recertification process.

Projects often earn LEED-NC certification under one project name and register for LEED-EBOM under another name due to changes in ownership, tenants, or management. Addressing these inconsistencies by listing all relevant names in the credit documentation helps the LEED certification review team to properly review this credit.

There is little to no cost for pursuing this credit if the building has previously received LEED certification for its design and construction. 

Review the previous LEED scorecard with the current project team to prioritize LEED-EBOM credits.