Energy and Atmosphere

To establish a baseline carbon projection for building operations to track progress toward decarbonization goals.

Calculate the building carbon projection including both operational carbon (energy use and refrigerants) and embodied carbon of major replacements. Establish annual carbon emissions baseline using applicable energy codes and actual utility data. Document projected carbon emissions for a 10-year period. Include Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.

To establish ongoing monitoring of energy consumption to support energy efficiency and decarbonization.

Install permanent energy meters or submeters to track whole-building energy consumption. Commit to sharing energy data with USGBC for at least 5 years. Data must be reported at least monthly. Track all major fuel sources: electricity, natural gas, steam, chilled water, and renewable energy systems.

To establish a minimum level of energy efficiency for building operations.

Demonstrate that the building achieves at least the minimum energy performance level required by the applicable energy code or standard, as defined by ASHRAE 90.1 or the International Energy Conservation Code. Conduct an energy audit (ASHRAE Level II or equivalent). Implement no-cost and low-cost energy conservation measures identified in the audit.

To reduce ozone depletion and climate change impacts from refrigerants.

Do not install or operate HVAC&R equipment that uses CFC-based refrigerants. Conduct refrigerant leak detection and repair for all existing equipment. Develop a refrigerant management plan that includes: inventory of all refrigerant-containing equipment, leak rate tracking, and replacement schedule for equipment using high-GWP refrigerants.

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from building operations beyond the minimum performance level.

Option 1. On-Site Combustion Reduction (1-12 pts): Reduce on-site fossil fuel combustion compared to baseline. Replace fossil fuel systems with electric or renewable alternatives.

Option 2. Renewable Energy (1-12 pts): Procure or produce renewable energy. On-site renewable energy systems or off-site renewable energy procurement (PPAs, RECs, community renewable).

Option 3. Total GHG Reduction (1-12 pts): Demonstrate overall GHG emissions reduction from baseline including operational energy, refrigerants, and on-site combustion. Calculate total building GHG emissions using approved methodology.

To achieve increased levels of energy performance beyond the minimum to reduce environmental impacts from energy use.

Demonstrate a percentage improvement in energy performance compared to the baseline building performance rating. Calculate the improvement using whole-building energy simulation or measured energy use data. Implement energy efficiency measures across building systems: envelope, HVAC, lighting, and plug loads.

To reduce ozone depletion potential and global warming potential of refrigerants used in building systems.

For 1 pt: Use refrigerants with lower GWP in all new HVAC&R equipment. Calculate the total equivalent warming impact (TEWI) and demonstrate it is at least 25% below the baseline.

For 2 pts: Use natural refrigerants (CO2, ammonia, hydrocarbons) or refrigerants with GWP of 10 or less in all new HVAC&R equipment. Demonstrate TEWI at least 50% below baseline. Implement automatic leak detection systems.

To reduce peak electricity demand to lessen strain on the electrical grid and improve grid reliability.

Demonstrate a reduction in peak electricity demand during the building peak period by at least 10% compared to baseline. Implement demand response strategies: load shifting, load shedding, thermal energy storage, or battery storage. Enroll in a demand response program with the local utility or grid operator. Install smart controls capable of automated demand response.

To develop and implement long-term plans for building decarbonization and energy efficiency improvements.

For 2 pts: Develop a decarbonization plan that includes: energy audit (ASHRAE Level II or higher), identification of electrification opportunities, renewable energy procurement strategy, and a 10-year implementation timeline.

For 3 pts: Complete above plus implement at least 3 measures from the decarbonization plan within the first 2 years.

For 4 pts: Complete above plus achieve third-party verification of the decarbonization plan and demonstrate measurable carbon reduction progress.

To actively manage building peak electricity demand through ongoing monitoring and operational strategies.

Implement a peak load management program that includes: real-time energy monitoring dashboard, automated load control strategies, staff training on peak management procedures, and documented peak reduction results. Track and report peak demand data for at least 12 months. Demonstrate measurable peak demand reduction.

To verify and optimize building systems performance through commissioning and ongoing monitoring.

For 1 pt: Conduct existing building commissioning (EBCx) or recommissioning of major building systems: HVAC, lighting, domestic hot water, and building envelope. Develop a commissioning plan. Document findings and implement no-cost and low-cost improvements.

For 2 pts: Complete above plus implement ongoing commissioning with monitoring-based commissioning (MBCx) using building automation system data. Establish performance benchmarks and automated fault detection.