The links below provide a Roadmap outlining an ideal process by which to achieve each goal, as well as model Harvard LEED submittals, information on design intent and sustainability principles, financial considerations, LEED requirements, and additional resources for each energy and atmosphere design element.
EA Prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems
EAp1 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | To maximize effectiveness, employ a commissioning agent as early as possible (even during pre-design). Include sustainability in the RFP language and emphasize the project's sustainability goals during the interview process. A third-party agent is preferable for objectivity. Although it is also possible to employ a member of the selected design firm, as long as that person is not also responsible for the project's design. See the OPR and RFP Language section for model RFP language. | Owner/Client |
| Pre-Design | Create Owner's Project Requirements for CxA to use when reviewing designs. | Owner/Client |
| Pre-Design | Create a Basis of Design for CxA to use when reviewing designs. | MEP |
| Design Development | Create a Cx plan. See LEED-CI v2.0 Reference Guide, page 117 for details. Include Cx requirements in specifications. | Commissioning Agent |
| Design Development | If a project is going to pursue further commissioning and apply for EAc2: Enhanced Commissioning, the Commissioning Agent should participate in a review at Design Development. Review and provide analysis and recommendations for the design. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction Documents | Review and provide a report with recommendations on the proposed systems. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | Verify systems are functioning as designed, per Commissioning plan, including corrections log. Complete Commissioning report. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EQp1 requirements. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC at the end of the project. | HGCI |
| Occupancy | Review building systems and warranties of commissioined equipment within 10 months of building completion. | Commissioning Agent |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Commissioning enhances energy performance by ensuring that mechanical systems, controls and electrical systems are properly installed and balanced. It also ensures that energy management systems are working properly and are tuned to perform according to the time of day or night, the season and the day of the week. Commissioning relates to several of the Harvard University Sustainability Principles. The first states that the university wants to "demonstrate institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency." Commissioning is an important way to ensure that a system designed to be efficient operates as such. Commissioning also relates to an important component of the second Sustainability Principle: Maintenance of the built environment." Commissioning is one aspect of proper maintenance of the university's properties. In order to "support long-term economic decision-making," a tenet of the fourth Sustainability Principle, numerous building managers and project managers have enlisted commissioning as a way to ensure full economic benefit of systems designed for energy efficiency.
Financial Considerations
Estimated costs for commissioning range from 0.4-3.8% of the project cost, depending on complexity of the mechanical systems, when commissioning is incorporated, and the time the Commissioning Authority spends on each task (Cox, Dorgan and Dorgan, "The Value of the Commissioning: Costs and Benefits" as referenced in LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 113).
Both the Western Area Power Administration and the GSA's Public Building Service say that commissioned buildings cost 8-20% less to operate than uncommissioned buildings ("Building Commissioning for New Construction").
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"The following commissioning process activities shall be completed by the commissioning team:
- Designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority to lead the commissioning process activities.
- This individual should not be directly responsible for project design or construction management.
- Clearly document the owner’s project requirements and the basis of design for the building’s energy related systems. Updates to these documents shall be made during design and construction by the design team.
- Develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents.
- Develop and utilize a commissioning plan.
- Verify that the installation and performance of energy consuming systems meet the owner’s project requirements and basis of design.
- Complete a commissioning report.
Commissioned Systems:
The energy-related systems to be included in the commissioning process activities include as a minimum:
- Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls
- Lighting controls, including day lighting
- Domestic hot water systems
- Renewable energy systems (PV, wind, solar, etc.)."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 117
LEED Submittals (Construction Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the commissioning authority and tenant, confirming that the commissioning requirements for the project's energy related systems have been successfully executed or will be provided under existing contract(s).
- Provide a narrative and diagrams indicating how the HVAC system works, what portions are shared with other tenants in the building, what was included in the project scope of work, and if improvements were made in conjunction with the project by others to any common building systems supplying the tenant area."
- LEED-CI Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 117
LEED Audit Requirements
"Please provide a narrative outlining the role of the commissioning agent (Cx) and the relationship of the Cx to the project team. Provide evidence of the basis of design review. Provide a copy of the commissioning plan, prefunctional data, commissioning specs, and excerpts from or a summary of the commissioning report. If under contract, please provide an excerpt from the contract demonstrating prerequisite achievement."
- LEED-CI version 2.0: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC
MODEL SUBMITTALS
In the commissioning plan, include language that relates to the LEED requirements for EA Prerequisite 1 and EA Credit 3, Enhanced Commissioning.
Additional Resources
EA Prerequisite 2: Minimum Energy Performance
EAp2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | Set minimum energy performance criteria goals, using LEED referenced standards as a guideline. | Client/Owner |
| Conceptual Design | Consider the extent to which the building can exceed ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004. Begin using energy modeling to evaluate design options. eQUEST is the preferred software. | MEP |
| Schematic/Design Development | Fine tune the energy model accordion to the 90.1-2004 Building Performance Rating Method (Appendix G). Applicable building components include building envelope, HVAC, service water heating, power, lighting, and other equipment. Demonstrate that the building meets or exceeds ASHRAE 90.1. See the Energy Modeling section for guidance. | MEP |
| Construction Documents | Review drawings and specifications to ensure minimum energy performance goals are being met. | Client Project Manager, MEP Engineers |
| Construction Documents | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAp3 requirements. | MEP |
| Construction Documents | This submittal is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete. | HGCI or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
All Harvard buildings must to meet this prerequisite as they must comply with the Massachusetts Building Code. The goal is for the building to perform beyond what the code requires, to optimize energy performance. As stated in the first of the Sustainability Principles, Harvard University is committed to "demonstrating institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency and use of renewable resources, and to decrease production of waste...both in Harvard's own operations and in those of its suppliers." This design element requires buildings to operate efficiently. It is particularly important to have effective use of energy at the user-end (lighting, heating, cooling), because efficiencies in these areas have a large impact on upstream energy production and result in significant savings.
Financial Considerations
There should be no added cost, as the minimum requirements will be met with the Massachusetts Building Code.
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Design portions of the building as covered by the tenant’s scope of work to comply with ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004 or the local energy code, whichever is more stringent."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 131
LEED Submittals (Design Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the licensed professional engineer, architect or other responsible party, stating that the tenant space complies with ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2004 or local energy codes, whichever is more stringent. If local energy codes were applied, demonstrate that the local energy code is more stringent than ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2004.
California Title 24 2001 has been deemed to be more stringent than ASHRAE 90.1-2004 for LEED purposes. No demonstration of equivalency is required for project teams implementing Title 24 2001."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 131
LEED Audit Requirements
- "Please provide a summary table of design features that minimally comply with applicable mandatory and prescriptive requirements in ASHRAE/IENSA 90.1-1999, Section 5-10 or local energy code (whichever is stricter) OR
- Provide a copy of the Energy Cost Budget Compliance Report. If local energy code was applied, demonstrate that the local code is equivalent to or more stringent than ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-1999."
- LEED-CI version 2.0: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC
MODEL SUBMITTAL
Additional Resources
EA Prerequisite 3: CFC Reduction in HVAC & R Equipment
EAp3 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Schematic Design | Minimize the need for halon fire suppressants and identify the best possible CFC- free refrigerants. | MEP Engineers |
| Design Development | Select equipment that does not contain halons. Review EAp3 requirements (page 169 v.2.2). | MEP Engineers |
| Construction Documents | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAp3 requirements. | MEP Engineers |
| Construction Documents | This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete. | HGCI or LEED consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, "dramatic increases in concentration of chlorine and bromine in the stratosphere since the 1950s have brought about enhanced ozone destruction." In recent years, the total amount of bromine and chlorine in the stratosphere has decreased a few percentage points, thanks to many nations' adherence to the Montreal Protocol. According to the first of the Sustainability Principles, Harvard University is committed to continuous improvement in "demonstrating institutional practices that ... decrease production of ...hazardous materials, both in Harvard's own operations and in those of its suppliers." Eliminating CFCs has been essential in decreasing bromines and halons in the atmosphere. Monitoring the chemicals in the university's HVAC&R systems is part of the process indicated in the sixth Sustainability Principle, that the University is committed to continuous improvement in "establishing indicators for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement." Continuous learning is an essential component of the principles, and the application on-campus of ideas learned in the classroom, such as the research on ozone performed by the Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences, is a sustainable direction for the campus.
Financial Considerations
With careful planning, eliminating halon fire suppressants and choosing the best possible refrigerants should add minimal cost, if any.
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Zero use of CFC-based refrigerants in tenant HVAC&R systems within the LEED-CI project scope of work."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 139
LEED Submittals (Design Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by a professional engineer or other responsible party, declaring that there are no CFCs in HVAC&R systems that have been installed or renovated within the LEED-CI project scope."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 139
LEED Audit Requirements
"Please provide a listing of all existing HVAC&R components and state whether each component uses CFCs. For those components that use CFCs, provide a copy of the phase out plan describing how these components will be converted or removed and replaced with CFC-free components."
- LEED-CI version 2.0: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC
MODEL SUBMITTAL
Additional Resources
EAc1.1: Optimize Energy Performance, Lighting Power
EAc1.1 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Planning | ||
| Conceptual Design | ||
| Schematic Design | ||
| Design Development | ||
| Construction Documents |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Financial Considerations
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
*All projects registered after June 26, 2007 must achieve at least two EAc1 credits. These can be earned in any of the four sub-categories (EAc1.1, EAc1.2, EAc1.3, EAc1.4). This will improve the energy performance of all LEED certified green buildings by 14% for new construction and 7% for existing buildings.*
"Reduce connected lighting power density below that allowed by ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2001 (with all addenda)* using either the space-by-space method or by applying the whole building lighting power allowance to the entire tenant space.
Option A. Reduce lighting power density to 15% below the standard (1 point)
OR
Option B. Reduce lighting power density to 25% below the standard, (2 points)
OR
Option C. Reduce lighting power density to 35% below the standard. (3 points)
*ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2004 will become the referenced standard once available."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide page 143
LEED Submittals (Design Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the professional engineer or other responsible party, stating that the lighting power density is reduced below ASHRAE requirements consistent with the level of credit being sought. AND
- Complete the Lighting Compliance Documentation provided in the ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 User’s Manual. Provide a separate calculation that shows the percentage reduction in lighting power."
LEED Audit Requirements
There are currently no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Additional Resources
EAc1.2 Optimize Energy Performance, Lighting Controls
EAc1.2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Planning/CAPS | ||
| Schematic Design | ||
| Construction Documents | ||
| Construction Documents | ||
| Occupancy |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Financial Considerations
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
*All projects registered after 6/26/07 must achieve at lest two EAc1 credits. These can be earned in any of the four sub-categories (EAc1.1, EAc1.2, EAc1.3, EAc1.4). This will improve the energy performance of all LEED certified green buildings by 14% for new construction and 7% for existing buildings.*
"Install daylight responsive controls in all regularly occupied spaces within 15 feet of windows and under skylights."
- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 148
LEED Submittals (Construction Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the professional engineer or other responsible party, stating that lighting controls were installed consistent with the credit requirement. AND
- Provide a narrative describing the lighting controls that have been incorporated in the tenant space design. Include a plan of lighting control zones showing each control device and lighting equipment controlled. Provide a schedule of lighting controls showing model, type and other characteristics."
- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 148
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Additional Resources
EAc1.3 Optimize Energy Performance, HVAC
EAc1.3 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Planning | Establish commitment/requirement to make decisions based on Life Cycle Costing, which connects capital costs of construction with operations budget | Owner/Client with CAPS |
| Budget Planning | Consider creating a financial incentive for meeting high performance building goals. (EPAct 2005 allows design teams to claim tax credits for energy efficient buildings.) | Owner/Client |
| Conceptual Design | Design charrette: identify energy operation goals for the design team. See EAc1 Model Submittals for energy savings other Harvard projects have been able to achieve. Review EAc1 requirements. Identify opportunities for integrated esign. Optimize energy loads through architectural element design and right-sizing of mechanical systems. | Owner, Project Manager, Architect, Engineer, HGCI or other sustainability consultant. |
| Conceptual Design | Establish processes, methods and responsibilities for establishing and integrating LCC and building simulation. | Owner/Client and Project Manager with Project Team |
| Conceptual Design | Consider precipitation, wind and solar exposure of site to determine possible passive strategies. | Architect |
| Conceptual Design | Conduct energy modeling study (preferably with eQUEST). Use ASHRAE 90.1-2004 Appendix G (Building Performance Rating Method) to establish base cases. Model design case on proposed design. Optimize building performance using the model to evaluate decisions. See the Energy Modeling section for detailed guidance. | MEP |
| Schematic Design | Perform LCC study for proposed systems. | Architect |
| Schematic Design | Identify HGCI loan fund and utility rebate opportunities based on LCC results. | HGCI and Project Manager |
| Design Development | Review DD mechanical and architectural decisions based on LCC and energy model. | Architect, MEP |
| Construction Documents | Review CD mechanical and architectural decisions based on LCC and energy model. | Architect, MEP |
| Construction Documents | Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAc1 requirements. | MEP |
| Construction Documents | This is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after Construction Documents are complete. | HGCI or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Financial Considerations
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
*All projects registered after 6/26/07 must achieve at lest two EAc1 credits. These can be earned in any of the four sub-categories (EAc1.1, EAc1.2, EAc1.3, EAc1.4). This will improve the energy performance of all LEED certified green buildings by 14% for new construction and 7% for existing buildings.*
"OPTION A
Implement one or both of the following strategies:
- Equipment Efficiency: (1 point)
- Install HVAC systems which comply with the efficiency requirements outlined in the New Buildings Institute, Inc.’s publication “Advanced Buildings: Energy Benchmark for High Performance Buildings (E-Benchmark)” prescriptive criteria for mechanical equipment efficiency requirements, sections 2.4 (less ASHRAE standard 55), 2.5, and 2.6.
- Appropriate Zoning and Controls: (1 point)
- Zone tenant fit out of spaces to meet the following requirements:
- Every Solar Exposure must have a separate control zone o Interior spaces must be separately zoned
- Private offices and specialty occupancies (conference rooms, kitchens, etc.) must have active controls capable of sensing space use and modulating HVAC system in response to space demand
- Zone tenant fit out of spaces to meet the following requirements:
OPTION B
Reduce design energy cost compared to the energy cost budget for regulated energy components described in the requirements of ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1- 2001 (with all addenda)*.
- Demonstrate that HVAC system component performance criteria used for tenant space are 15% better than a system that is in minimum compliance with ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2001 (with all addenda)*. (1 point) OR
- Demonstrate that HVAC system component performance criteria used for tenant space are 30% better than a system that is in minimum compliance with ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2001 (with all addenda)*. (2 points)
*ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2004 will become the referenced standard once available."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 152
LEED Submittals (Design Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the licensed professional engineer or architect, stating that the HVAC system energy consumption is 15% or 30% (depending on credit taken) lower than a base case system defined in ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2001, Section 11. (ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-2004 will become the referenced standard once available.)
- Provide a completed copy of the Energy Cost Budget (ECB) Compliance Form. Provide a narrative description of the HVAC system serving the tenant space as well as a description of the building-level system. Plans and specifications should have an HVAC equipment schedule and plans showing the equipment within the space."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 152
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Landmark (27%)
Additional Resources
EAc1.4 Optimize Energy Performance, Equipment and Appliances
EAc1.4 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Planning/CAPS | ||
| Schematic Design | ||
| Construction Documents | ||
| Construction Documents | ||
| Occupancy |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Financial Considerations
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
*All projects registered after 6/26/07 must achieve at lest two EAc1 credits. These can be earned in any of the four sub-categories (EAc1.1, EAc1.2, EAc1.3, EAc1.4). This will improve the energy performance of all LEED certified green buildings by 14% for new construction and 7% for existing buildings.*
"For all ENERGYSTAR-eligible equipment and appliances installed in the project, including appliances, office equipment, electronics, and commercial food service equipment (but excluding HVAC, lighting, and building envelope products):
- 70%, by rated-power, of ENERGYSTAR-eligible equipment and appliances shall be ENERGYSTAR-rated (1 point); OR
- 90%, by rated-power, of ENERGYSTAR-eligible equipment and appliances shall be ENERGYSTAR-rated (2 points)."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 168
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the responsible party, declaring that ENERGYSTAR-eligible equipment and appliances are ENERGYSTAR-rated and yield the indicated percentage of the total, determined by rated-power.
- Provide a narrative describing the equipment and appliances that will be installed in the project. Complete the schedule of equipment listing the types and quantity of equipment and appliances to be installed in the project along with the rated-power (or rated fuel input for commercial cooking equipment) of each type of EnergyStar eligible equipment and appliance. Indicate which equipment and appliances are ENERGYSTAR-rated. Indicate the overall percentage of equipment and appliances, based on rated electrical power (as well as rated fuel input for commercial cooking equipment), that is ENERGYSTAR-rated."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 168
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Landmark (58.60%)
Additional Resources
EAc2: Enhanced Commissioning
EAc2 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | To maximize effectiveness, employ a commissioning agent as early as possible (even during pre-design). Include sustainability and LEED requirements in RFP language and emphasize the project's sustainability goals during the interview process. | Client/Owner |
| Pre-Design | Create Owner's Project Requirements for CxA to use when reviewing designs. | Client/Owner |
| Pre-Design | Create Basis of Design for CxA to use when reviewing designs. | MEP |
| Design Development | It is very important that the Commissioning Agent be brought in at design development to review documents at that stage if a project wants to achieve LEED-NC EA credit 3. However, at 90 Mount Auburn Street, the CA was brought in right after design development. The project team submitted a CIR, and was given approval as long as the Owner was committed to incorporate the recommended changes, even if they might constitute change orders. | Client Project Manager |
| Design Development | CxA must review and comment on DD documents. | Commissioning Agent |
| Design Development | Engineer must respond to comments from CxA on DD documents. | MEP |
| Construction Documents | CxA must review and comment on CD documents. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction Documents | Engineer must respond to comments from CxA on CD documents. | MEP |
| Construction | Complete LEED Online LEtter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAc2 requirements. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | Develop systems manual for commissioned systems that provides future operating staff information needed to understand and optimally operate the systems. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | Verify and document that the requirements for training operating personnel and building occupants are completed. | Commissioning Agent |
| Construction | This credit is a Construction Submittal and should be submitted at the end of the project. | HGCI or LEED Consultant |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
The purpose of this design element is to provide for independent review of a building's mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems throughout the design process in order to ensure the most energy- and water-efficient methods for heating, cooling, and plumbing a building are operating as intended. A core aspect of the Sustainability Principles hinges on continuous improvement in order to propel the university toward truly sustainable building design and construction. Enhanced commissioning is a thorough process that ensures that Harvard's buildings will operate as effectively as they were designed. Enhanced commissioning is the demonstration of an institutional practice that promotes measures to increase efficiency.
Financial Considerations
As detailed in EA prerequisite 1: Fundamental Commissioning, commissioned buildings have much lower operating costs than buildings that are not commissioned. A study by the Davis Langdon group points out that pursuing Enhanced Commissioning does not cost much more ($1.00 to $2.00/SF) than what is required in Fundamental Commissioning (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 17). For the full cite, see Financial Links.
LEED Requirements (Construction Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"In addition to the Fundamental Commissioning prerequisite, implement or have a contract in place to
implement the following additional commissioning process activities:
1. Designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority, independent of the firms represented on
the design and construction team, to lead the commissioning design review activities prior to the
end of Design Development.
2. Conduct a review of the tenant space’s energy-related systems contractor submittals.
3. Develop a single manual that contains the information required for re-commissioning the tenant
space’s energy related systems.
4. Verify that the requirements for training operating personnel and tenant space occupants are
completed. Have a contract in place to review tenant space operation with O&M staff and
occupants including a plan for resolution of outstanding commissioning-related issues 8 to 10
months after final acceptance."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 173
LEED Submittals
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the owner and independent Commissioning Authority, confirming that the required enhanced commissioning process requirements 1 and 2 have been successfully executed and that a contract for completing requirements 3 and 4 is in place."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 173
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTAL
Additional Resources
EAc3 Energy Use, Measurement & Payment Accountability
EAc3 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Schematic Design | Establish Energy Cost Budget baseline building model. | MEP Engineers |
| Schematic Design | Establish a measurement and verification plan to determine the systems that will be monitored. | MEP Engineers |
| Construction Documents | Submit LEED documentation per EAc5 requirements (p.211 v2.2 Reference Guide). | MEP Engineers |
| Construction | This credit is part of the Construction Submittal and should be documented during this time. | MEP/HGCI or LEED Consultant |
| Occupancy | Utilize the data from the measurement devices to evaluate energy conservation measures and occupant education for the life of the building. | Building Manager |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Measurement and verification allows the building occupants to evaluate how the various energy conservation measures implemented in the building perform once the building is occupied. Watt meters, air flow meters, duct pressure sensors all provide data that the university can then compare with what was expected in the design case model. This re-evaluation not only helps to fine-tune design case models, but also assists the university in informing implementation of future technologies. The following three Sustainability Principles demonstrate the importance of measurement and verification to Harvard University: a) “Developing planning tools to enable comparative analysis of sustainability implications and to support long-term economic, environmental and socially responsible decision-making,” b) “Encouraging environmental inquiry and institutional learning throughout the university community,” and c) “Establishing indicators for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement.”
Financial Considerations
Measurement and verification is essential in ensuring that systems are performing as designed. According to the David Langdon study, a good quality reporting system can add $2.00 to $4.00/SF to the cost of a project (Matthiessen, Fay and Morris, 17). For the full cite, see Financial Links. See also pages 224-225 of the LEED v2.2 Reference Guide for economic considerations.
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"CASE A: For those projects with an area that constitute less than 75% of the total building area:
- Install sub-metering equipment to measure and record energy uses within the tenant space. (1 point.)
- Negotiate a lease where energy costs are paid by the tenant and not included in the base rent. (1 point)
OR
CASE B: For those projects with an area that constitutes 75% or more of the total building area, install continuous metering equipment for the following end-uses: (2 points)
- Lighting systems and controls
- Constant and variable motor loads
- Variable frequency drive (VFD) operation
- Chiller efficiency at variable loads (kW/ton)
- Cooling load
- Air and water economizer and heat recovery cycles
- Air distribution static pressures and ventilation air volumes
- Boiler efficiencies
- Building-related process energy systems and equipment
- Indoor water riser and outdoor irrigation systems
Develop a Measurement & Verification plan that incorporates the monitoring information from the above end-uses and is consistent with Option B, C or D of the 2001 International Performance Measurement & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Volume I: Concepts and Options for Determining Energy and Water Savings."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 175
LEED Submittals (Construction Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
- "For projects with an area that constitutes less than 75% of the total building area, provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by a licensed engineer or other responsible party, describing the metering equipment installed for each end use, and/or indicating that energy costs are paid by the tenant and not included in the base rent, which must be confirmed by providing a copy of the applicable portion of the lease.
OR
- For projects with an area that constitutes 75% or more of the total building area, provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by a licensed engineer or other responsible party, indicating that metering equipment has been installed for each end-use and declaring the option to be followed under IPMVP, 2001 version, plus provide a copy of the M&V plan following IPMVP, 2001 version, including an executive summary."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 175
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Additional Resources
EAc4: Green Power
EAc4 ROADMAP
| Design Phase | Recommended Approach: Activities | Recommended Approach: Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Planning/CAPS | Harvard University Engineering and Utilities and the Harvard Green Campus Initiative have negotiated an agreement with Sterling Planet for purchasing wind energy for electricity usage. Now that Harvard University has a negotiated price for wind power, project managers can easily download the one page Purchase Order Agreement and fill it out, whereas before each project negotiated its own purchasing of green power. These purchase order agreements will contribute to the collection of data for Harvard Green Campus Initiative's Greenhouse Gas Inventory for Harvard University. One Western Avenue was also able to achieve an Innovation and Design credit for signing an agreement to purchase 100% of its electricity from a certified Green-e power supply. The following projects also have this innovation and design credit for exemplary performance in Renewable Energy pending: 90 Mount Auburn Street, Five Cowperthwaite, Hamilton Hall, and Blackstone. | Client/Owner and CAPS |
| Schematic Design | Estimate the project's baseline electricity use to determine how much to purchase in Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). | Engineers |
| Construction Documents | When the Building Energy Model is complete, Harvard Project Managers should download the Purchase Order Agreement. Fill out the form for 2 years for 50-100% (min. 35% per LEED) of the energy load based on the final Building Energy Model. Submit the signed form to Harvard Green Campus Initiative at 46 Blackstone through interdepartmental mail or fax, (617) 495-9409. | Project Manager |
| Construction Documents | Document EAc6 per LEED requirements (p.227 of v2.2 Reference Guide). | Project Manager with HGCI or LEED consultant |
| Occupancy | After two years, consider another contract to continue using RECs to offset the building's carbon emissions. | Client/Owner/Building Manager |
Design Intent and Sustainability Principles
Purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates for certified Green-e power decreases dependency on polluting, non-renewable resources such as fossil fuels. Green power applies to the first Sustainability Principle: Harvard University is committed to continuous improvement in demonstrating institutional practices that promote sustainability, including measures to increase efficiency and use of renewable resources." The sixth sustainable principle is that Harvard University is committed to establishing indicators for sustainability that will enable monitoring reporting and continuous improvement." The purchase order agreement for green power that the university now has with Sterling Power, a green-e certified power provider, facilitates data collection for the university's Greenhouse Gas Inventory.
Financial Considerations
Harvard Project Managers have found the cost impact of the purchase of renewable energy certificates to be minimal at most. Harvard's set negotiated price for wind power is $2.35/MWh. When the Building Energy Model is complete, Project Managers should download the Purchase Order Agreement. Fill out the form for 2 years for 50-100% of the energy load based on the final Building Energy Model. Submit the signed form to Harvard Green Campus Initiative through interdepartmental mail, or via fax, at 617-495-9409.
LEED Requirements
LEED-CI Version 2.0
See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Provide at least 50% of the tenant’s electricity from renewable sources by engaging in at least a two-year renewable energy contract. Renewable sources are as defined by the Center for Resource Solutions (CRS) Green-e products certification requirements. Green power may be procured from a Green-e certified power marketer, a Green-e accredited utility program, or through Green-e Tradable Renewable Certificates, or from a supply that meets the Green-e Renewable Power definition."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 185
LEED Submittals (Construction Submittal)
LEED-CI Version 2.0
"Provide the LEED-CI Letter Template, signed by the owner or other responsible party, documenting that the supplied power is equal to 50% of the project’s energy consumption and the sources meet the Green-e definition of renewable energy. Provide a copy of the two-year electric utility purchase contract for power generated from renewable sources."
- LEED-CI Version 2.0 Reference Guide, page 185
LEED Audit Requirements
Currently there are no audit requirements for this credit.
MODEL SUBMITTALS
Additional Resources
Updated: Tuesday, December 4, 2007 1:19 PM
