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, though 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 RFP 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-NC v2.2 Reference Guide, page 156 for details. Include Cx requirements in specifications.	Commissioning Agent
Design Development	If a project is going to pursue further commissioning and apply for EAc3: 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 commissioned equipment within 10 months of building completion.	Commissioning Agent

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 “Demonstrat[e] 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.

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.  (Source: 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-NC Version 2.2

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, in accordance with the LEED-NC 2.2 Reference Guide.

1) Designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities.

a) The CxA shall have documented commissioning authority experience in at least two building projects.

b) The individual serving as the CxA shall be independent of the project's design and construction management, though they may be employees of the firms providing those services. The CxA may be a qualified employee or consultant of the Owner.

c) The CxA shall report results, findings and recommendations directly to the Owner.

d) For projects smaller than 50,000 gross square feet, the CxA may include qualified persons on the design or construction teams who have the required experience.

2) The Owner shall document the Owner's Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The Owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents.

3) Develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents.

4) Develop and implement a commissioning plan.

5) Verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned.

6) Complete a summary commissioning report.

Commissioned Systems
Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

Heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls

Lighting and daylighting controls

Domestic hot water systems

Renewable energy systems (wind, solar etc.)"

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 151-152

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Implement or have a contract in place to implement the following fundamental best practice commissioning procedures. 

• Engage a commissioning team that does not include individuals directly responsible for project design or construction management.
• Review the design intent and the basis of design documentation.
• Incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents.
• Develop and utilize a commissioning plan.
• Verify installation, functional performance, training and operation and maintenance documentation.
• complete a commissioning report."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 111

LEED for New Construction Version 2.2

• "Provide the name and company information for the CxA.
• Confirm that the 6 required tasks have been completed.
• Provide a narrative description of the systems that were commissioned and the results of the commissioning projects.

LEED for New Construction Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the owner or commissioning agent(s), confirming that the fundamental commissioning requirements have been successfully executed or will be provided under existing contract(s)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 111

• "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,
• pre-functional data,
• commissioning specifications, and   
• excerpts from or a summary of the commissioning report. 
• If under contract, please provide an excerpt from the contract demonstrating prerequisite achievement."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Hamilton Hall (LEED-NC v2.1)

ASHRAE

Building Commissioning Association

Cx Assistant Commissioning Agent Tool

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

All Harvard buildings 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.

There should be no added cost, as the minimum requirements will be met with the Massachusetts Building Code.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Design the building project to comply with both

• the mandatory provisions (Sections 5.4, 6.4, 7.4, 8.4, 9.4 and 10.4) of ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004 (without amendments); and
• the prescriptive requirements (Sections 5.5, 6.5, 7.5 and 9.5) or performance requirements (Section 11) of ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004 (without amendments)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 163

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Design the building to comply with ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-1999 (without amendments) or the local energy code, whichever is more stringent."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 121

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm that the project meets the requirements of ASHRAE Std. 90.1-2004
• Provide an optional narrative regarding special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's prerequisite approach."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 167

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide a LEED Letter Template, signed by a licensed professional engineer or architect, stating that the building complies with ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-1999 or local energy codes. If local energy codes were applied, demonstrate that the local code is equivalent to, or more stringent than, ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-1999 (without amendments)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 121

"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-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

ASHRAE

Advanced Buildings

Massachusetts Building Code

U.S. Department of Energy

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

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.

With careful planning, eliminating halon fire suppressants and choosing the best possible refrigerants should add minimal cost, if any.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Zero use of CFC-based refrigerants in new base building HVAC&R systems. When reusing existing base building HVAC equipment, complete a comprehensive CFC phase-out conversion prior to project completion. Phase-out plans extending beyond the project completion date will be considered on their merits."

-LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 169

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Zero use of CFC-based refrigerants in new base building HVAC&R systems. When reusing existing base building HVAC equipment, complete a comprehensive CFC phaseout conversion."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 129

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm that the project does not use CFC refrigerants

OR

• Confirm that the project has a phase-out plan for any existing CFC-based equipment
• Provide a narrative description of the phase-out plan, including dates and refrigerant quantities as a percentage of the overall project equipment. "

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 117

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide a LEED Letter Template, signed by a licensed professional engineer or architect, declaring that the building's HVAC&R systems do not use CFC-based refrigerants."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 129

For New Building Projects:

"Please provide equipment schedules and cut sheets highlighting refrigerant information for all HVAC&R components."

For Existing Building Projects

"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-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

 

 

 

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (LEED-NC v2.1)

Scientific study of refrigerants for LEED

EPA List of Substitutes for Ozone Depleting Products

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 of 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 design. 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

The complexity of the thermodynamic systems in a building, coupled with demands for good indoor air quality and optimal energy performance makes this area of building design one of the most important, and one that can have a significant impact on the environment and the university's overall energy consumption. Innovation in systems thinking allows gains in one design discipline to impact other areas. For example, electrical loads are reduced by well-designed day lit office spaces which are free of glare problems. The reduction in heat output from the lights can then be utilized to reduce cooling loads and possibly result in a smaller mechanical system. Optimizing energy performance of our buildings is crucial to the first Sustainability Principle that the university take measures to increase efficiency. "As this is to be done both in Harvard's own operations and in those of its suppliers," it is important that design teams hired by the university understand that this is a goal. Optimizing energy performance requires research, analysis, and experience gained over time,: which is another key concept to the Sustainability Principles.

Optimization of the building's energy performance can offset operating costs with various paybacks. Energy modeling and life cycle costing is absolutely essential in maximizing a building’s efficiency and reducing cost.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

**All projects registered after 6/26/07 must achieve at least two EAc1 credits. This will improve the energy performance of all LEED certified green buildings by 14% for new construction and 7% for existing buildings.**

 

"Select one of the three compliance path options described below. Project teams documenting achievement using any of the three options are assumed to be in compliance with EA Prerequisite 2.

OPTION 1: WHOLE BUILDING ENERGY SIMULATION (10 Points)

Demonstrate a percentage improvement in the proposed building performance rating compared to the baseline building performance rating per ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004 (without amendments) by a whole building project simulation using the Building Performance Rating Method in Appendix G of the Standard. The minimum energy cost savings percentage for each point threshold is as follows:

New Buildings	Existing Building Renovations	Points
10.5%	3.5%	1
14%	7%	2
17.5%	10.5%	3
21%	14%	4
24.5%	17.5%	5
28%	21%	6
31.5%	24.5%	7
35%	28%	8
38.5%	31.5%	9
42%	35%	10

Appendix G of Standard 90.1-2004 requires that the energy analysis done for the Building Performance Rating Method include ALL of the energy costs within and associated with the building project. To achieve points using this credit, the proposed design

• must comply with the mandatory provisions (Sections 5.4, 6.4, 7.4, 8.4, 9.4 and 10.4) in Standard 90.1-2004 (without amendments);
• must include all the energy costs within and associated with the building project; and
• must be compared against a baseline building that complies with Appendix G to Standard 90.1-2004 (without amendments). The default process energy cost is 25% of the total energy cost for the baseline building. For buildings where the process energy cost is less than 25% of the baseline building energy cost, the LEED submittal must include supporting documentation substantiating that process energy inputs are appropriate.

For the purpose of this analysis, process energy is considered to include, but is not limited to, office and general miscellaneous equipment, computers, elevators and escalators, kitchen cooking and refrigeration, laundry washing and drying, lighting exempt from the lighting power allowance (e.g. lighting integral to medical equipment) and other (e.g. waterfall pumps). Regulated (nonprocess) energy includes lighting (such as for the interior, parking garage, surface parking, facade, or building grounds, except as noted above), HVAC (such as for space heating, space cooling, fans, pumps, toilet exhaust, parking garage ventilation, kitchen hood exhaust, etc.), and service water heating for domestic or space heating purposes.

For EA Credit 1, process loads shall be identical for both the baseline building performance rating and for the proposed building performance rating. However, project teams may follow the Exceptional Calculation Method (ASHRAE 90.1-2004 G2.5) to document measures that reduce process loads. Documentation of process load energy savings shall include a list of the assumptions made for both the base and proposed design, and theoretical or empirical information supporting these assumptions.

OR

OPTION 2: PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE PATH (4 Points)
Comply with the prescriptive measures of the ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Office Buildings 2004. The following restrictions apply:

• Buildings must be under 20,000 square feet.
• Buildings must be office occupancy.
• Project teams must fully comply with all applicable criteria as established in the Advanced Energy Design Guide for the climate zone in which the building is located.

OR

OPTION 3: PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE PATH (1 Point)
Comply with the Basic Criteria and Prescriptive Measures of the Advanced Buildings Benchmark Version 1.1 with the exception of the following sections: 1.7 Monitoring and Trend-logging, 1.11 Indoor Air Quality, and 1.14 Networked Computer Monitor Control. The following restrictions apply:

• Project teams must fully comply with all applicable criteria as established in Advanced Buildings Benchmark for the climate zone in which the building is located."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 36

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Reduce design energy cost compared to the energy cost budget for energy systems regulated by ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-1999 (without amendments), as demonstrated by a whole building simulation using the Energy Cost Budget Method described in Section 11 of the Standard.

New Bldgs.	Existing Bldgs.	Points
15%	5%	1
20%	10%	2
25%	15%	3
30%	20%	4
35%	25%	5
40%	30%	6
45%	35%	7
50%	40%	8
55%	45%	9
60%	50%	10

Regulated energy systems include HVAC (heating, cooling, fans and pumps), service hot water and interior lighting. Non-regulated systems include plug loads, exterior lighting, garage ventilation and elevators (vertical transportation). Two methods may be used to separate energy consumption for regulated systems. The energy consumption for each fuel may be prorated according to the fraction of energy used by regulated and non-regulated energy. Alternatively, separate meters (accounting) may be created in the energy simulation program for regulated and non-regulated energy uses.

If an analysis has been made comparing the proposed design to local energy standards and a defensible equivalency (at minimum) to ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-1999 has been established, then the comparison against the local code may be used in lieu of the ASHRAE Standard.

Project teams are encouraged to apply for innovation credits if the energy consumption of non-regulated systems is also reduced."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide page 133

LEED-NC Version 2.2

"THE EA Credit 1 Submittal Template provides detailed tables and calculations to assist with the completion of this credit. Instructions are self-contained on the template and too lengthy to repeat here. Users are prompted for relevant project and model data, and the forms are automatically generate percent savings and points achieved."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide page 186

LEED-NC Version 2.1

• "Complete the LEED Letter Template incorporating a quantitative summary table showing the energy saving strategies incorporated in the building design.

• Demonstrate via summary printout from energy simulation software that the design energy cost is less than the energy cost budget as defined in ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-1999, Section 11."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide page. 133

See also: USGBC Sample EA credit 1 Submittal

• "Please provide a narrative highlighting energy saving measures incorporated in the building design focusing on building envelope, mechanical, lighting, hot water, and all energy efficiency measures.
• Include a table listing baseline and proposed comparisons of all model variables that are different.
• Demonstrate how much lower (by a percentage) the design energy cost is as compared to the energy cost budget as defined in ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1-1999, Section 11.
• Compare local code requirements to proposed building characteristics if applicable.
• Provide a completed and signed copy of the Energy Cost Budget (ECB) Compliance Form along with
• sample output from the energy model summary."

-LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (9) (45.2%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (4) (22.1%) (LEED-NC v2.1)

ASHRAE

Advanced Buildings

USGBC LEED Reference Guide

Building Energy Software

Building Energy Code - US Department of Energy

ENERGYSTAR

Design Phase	Recommended Approach: Activities	Recommended Approach: Responsibilities
Budget Planning/CAPS	Establish a commitment/requirement to make decisions based on life cycle costing analysis, which connects capital costs of construction with operations budget.	Client/Owner and CAPS
Conceptual Deign	Identify potential for on-site renewable energy. Design charrette: identify synergies across building program and energy consumption.	MEP
Conceptual Design	Integrate renewable energy options in the building model. See LEED requirements on page 197 of v2.2 Reference Guide.	MEP
Schematic Design	Complete initial renewable energy system siting and sizing and determine whether there will be a connection to the utility grid.	MEP
Design Development	Identify alternative funding options - Green Campus Loan Fund, MTC Grants, and ISO Forward Capacity Market.	HGCI
Construction Documents	Ensure commissioning, controls, electrical/mechanical equipment are properly specified.	MEP
Construction Documents	Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAc2 requirements.	MEP
Construction Documents	This credit is a Design Submittal and should be submitted to the USGBC after construction documents are complete.	HGCI or LEED Consultant
Construction	Commission the system as part of the Commissioning plan.	Commissioning Agent
Occupancy	Train operations and maintenance staff.	Contractor
Occupancy	Track energy use of renewable system(s).	Owner

The purpose of this design element is to shift the energy grid toward non-polluting renewable energy sources, and to encourage buildings to be self-sufficient rather than fossil-fuel intensive. The first University Sustainability Principle states that the university is dedicated to increasing “efficiency and use of renewable resources." This design element encourages land-use patterns that bring energy production closer to its end-user. Distribution losses due to the transmission of electrical energy across long distances can be minimized with on-site renewable energy generation. Measurement of on-site renewable energy generation can become a learning vehicle with which to develop long-term planning tools in support of long-term sustainable decision-making.

This credit has a substantial construction cost impact, and has yet to be achieved by a Harvard LEED project. This element should be considered with life cycle costing. The capital cost is likely to be higher, but can be offset by grants, such as those offered by the MTC Renewable Energy Trust, and the HGCI Loan Fund. The usual 10-year payback requirement to qualify HGCI Loan Fund is waived for photovoltaic projects, which often have longer payback periods.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Use on-site renewable energy systems to offset building energy cost. Calculate project performance by expressing the energy produced by the renewable systems as a percentage of the building annual energy cost and using the table below to determine the number of points achieved.

Use the building annual energy cost calculated in EA Credit 1 or use the Department of Energy (DOE) Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) database to determine the estimated electricity use. (Table of use for different building types is provided in the Reference Guide.)"

% Renewable Energy	Points
2.5%	1
7.5%	2
12.5%	3

-LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 197

LEED-NC Version 2.1

2.1 "Supply at least 5% of the building's total energy use (as expressed as a fraction of annual energy cost) through the use of on-site renewable energy systems."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 151

"2.2 Substitute 10%

2.3 Substitute 20%

A CIR was issued that gives the following values for point interpolation:

Credit 2.1 applies to 2.51% -7.50% for on-site renewable energy

Credit 2.2 is for 7.51% to 15.50% for on-site renewable energy

Credit 2.3 > 15.51%"

-LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, pages 151, 153

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Provide the On-Site Renewable Energy Source(s) used, the annual energy generated from each source, and the backup fuel for each source (i.e. the fuel that is used when the renewable energy source is unavailable).
• Describe the source of the annual energy cost information (energy model or industry."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 202

 

LEED-NC Version 2.1

2.1 "Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect, owner or responsible party, declaring that at least 5% of the building's energy is provided by on-site renewable energy. Include a narrative describing on-site renewable energy systems installed in the building and calculations demonstrating that at least 5% of total energy costs are supplied by the renewable energy system(s)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 151

2.2 Substitute 10%

2.3 Substitute 20%

"Please provide

• drawings,
• cut sheets, &
• specifications highlighting on-site renewable energy systems installed in the building. Provide
• calculations showing what percentage of total energy costs are supplied for by on-site renewable energy systems."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

This credit for on-site renewable energy has not yet been achieved by a project at Harvard.

ASHRAE

MTC Renewable Energy Trust

HGCI Loan Fund

American Wind Energy Association

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 EAc3 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

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 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 Harvard University Sustainability Principles  hinges on continuous improvement in order to propel the university toward true 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.

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 full cite, see Financial Links.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Implement, or have a contract in place to implement, the following additional commissioning process activities in addition to the requirements of EA Prerequisite 1 and in accordance with the LEED-NC 2.2 Reference Guide:

1. Prior to the start of the construction documents phase, designate an independent Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review, and oversee the completion of all commissioning process activities. The CxA shall, at a minimum, perform Tasks 2, 3 and 6. Other team members may perform Tasks 4 and 5.

a. The CxA shall have documented commissioning authority experience in at least two building projects.

b. The individual serving as the CxA shall be--

i. independent of the work of design and construction;

ii. not an employee of the design firm, though they may be contracted through them;

iii. not an employee of, or contracted through, a contractor or construction manager holding construction contracts; and

iv. (can be) a qualified employee or consultant of the Owner.

c. The CxA shall report results, findings and recommendations directly to the Owner.

d. This requirement has no deviation for project size.

2. The CxA shall conduct, at a minimum, one commissioning design review of the Owner's Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD), and design documents prior to mid-construction documents phase and back-check the review comments in the subsequent design submission.

3. The CxA shall review contractor submittals applicable to systems being commissioned for compliance with the OPR and BOD. This review shall be concurrent with A/E reviews and submitted to the design team and the Owner.

4. Develop a systems manual that provides future operating staff the information needed to understand and optimally operate the commissioned systems.

5. Verify that the requirements for training operating personnel and building occupants are completed.

6. Assure the involvement by the CxA in reviewing building operation within 10 months after substantial completion with O&M staff and occupants. Include a plan for resolution of outstanding commissioning-related issues."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 205

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"In addition to the Fundamental Building Commissioning prerequisite, implement or have a contract in place to implement the following additional commissioning tasks:

1. A commissioning authority independent of the design team shall conduct a review of the design prior to the construction documents phase.

2. An independent commissioning authority shall conduct a review of the construction documents near completion of the construction document development and prior to issuing the contract documents for construction.

3. An independent commissioning authority shall review the contractor submittals relative to systems being commissioned.

4. Provide the owner with a single manual that contains the information required for re-commissioning building systems.

5. Have a contract in place to review building operation with O&M staff, including a plan for resolution of outstanding commissioning-related issues within one year after construction completion date."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 165

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Provide the name, firm, and experience information for the CxA
• Confirm that the 6 required tasks have been completed
• Provide a narrative description of the results of the commissioning design review, implementation of the systems manual, and the plan for the review of building operation at 8 to 10 months. "

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 209

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the owner or independent commissioning agent(s) as appropriate, confirming that the required additional commissioning tasks have been successfully executed or will be provided under existing contract(s)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 165

"Please provide:

• a description of the relationship of the Commissioning Agent to the design team, demonstrating that the commissioning agent is in fact an independent third party.
• documentation indicating that DD and CD reviews (with substantive comments) occurred.
• an executive summary or excerpts from the re-commissioning manual, and
• evidence of resolution of outstanding commissioning issues.

If under contract, please provide an excerpt from the contract demonstrating credit achievement."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1).

ASHRAE

Building Commissioning Association

Cx Assistant Commissioning Agent Tool

Design Phase	Recommended Approach: Activities	Recommended Approach: Responsibilities
Schematic Design	Plan to minimize/eliminate the use of refrigerants and fire suppression systems with high ozone-depleting and/or global-warming potential. Review LEED requirements (p. 211 of LEED NC v2.2 Reference Guide).	MEP Engineers
Schematic Design	Maximize equipment efficiency while maximizing refrigerant quantity and ozone-depleting and global-warming potentials. Evaluate refrigerants based on LCC and environmental impact. Design system to have very low/no refrigerant leakage rates.	MEP Engineers
Construction Documents	Specify environmentally friendly refrigerants and specify the refrigerant charges.	MEP Engineers
Construction Documents	Complete LEED Online Letter Template and provide submittal and audit requirements per EAc4 requirements.	MEP Engineers
Construction Documents	This credit can be submitted with the Design Submittal, before construction, if using LEED online.	HGCI or LEED Consultant

The intent of this credit is to reduce the use of refrigerants and fire-safety devices that use ozone-depleting chemicals. 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 the adherence by many nations to the Montreal Protocol. A halon is a compound that contains bromine. The production of halons was outlawed in the US in 1993. HCFCs are substances that contain hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine and carbon. HCFC's are a temporary substitution for CFC's, and must be phased-out in developed countries by January 2030.

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." Elimination of HCFC's and halons in refrigeration and fire-suppression systems is a way to decrease those ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere. Monitoring the chemicals in the university's mechanical and fire protection equipment 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.”

With careful planning, eliminating halon fire suppressants and choosing the best possible refrigerants should add minimal cost, if any.

LEED-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"OPTION 1

Do not use refrigerants.

OR

OPTION 2
Select refrigerants and HVAC&R that minimize or eliminate the emission of compounds that contribute to ozone depletion and global warming. The base building HVAC&R equipment shall comply with the following formula, which sets a maximum threshold for the combined contributions to ozone depletion and global warming potential:

LCGWP + LCODP x 105 <= 100

Where:
LCODP = [ODPr x (Lr x Life +Mr) x Rc]/Life
LCGWP = [GWPr x (Lr x Life +Mr) x Rc]/Life
LCODP: Lifecycle Ozone Depletion Potential (lbCFC11/Ton-Year)
LCGWP: Lifecycle Direct Global Warming Potential (lbCO2/Ton-Year)

GWPr: Global Warming Potential of Refrigerant (0 to 12,000 lbCO2/lbr)

ODPr: Ozone Depletion Potential of Refrigerant (0 to 0.2 lbCFC11/lbr)
Lr: Refrigerant Leakage Rate (0.5% to 2.0%; default of 2% unless otherwise demonstrated)
Mr: End-of-life Refrigerant Loss (2% to 10%; default of 10% unless otherwise demonstrated)
Rc: Refrigerant Charge (0.5 to 5.0 lbs of refrigerant per ton of cooling capacity)
Life: Equipment Life (10 years; default based on equipment type, unless otherwise demonstrated)
For multiple types of equipment, a weighted average of all base building level HVAC&R equipment shall be applied using the following formula:

Where:

Qunit = Cooling capacity of an individual HVAC or refrigeration unit (Tons)

Qtotal = Total cooling capacity of all HVAC or refrigeration
Small HVAC units (defined as containing less than 0.5 lbs of refrigerant), and other equipment such as standard refrigerators, small water coolers, and any other cooling equipment that contains less than 0.5 lbs of refrigerant, are not considered part of the base building" system and are not subject to the requirements of this credit.

AND

Do not install suppression systems that contain ozone-depleting substances (CFCs, HCFCs or Halons)."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 211-212

LEE-NC Version 2.1

"Install base building level HVAC and refrigeration equipment and fire suppression systems that do not contain HCFCs or Halons."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 169

LEED-NC Version 2.2

• "Enter into the template the HVAC&R equipment types, including number, size (tons), refrigerant, and refrigerant charge
• Provide a narrative describing any special circumstances or calculation explanations."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 218

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the architect or engineer, stating that HVAC&R systems as-built are free of HCFCs and Halons."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 169

"Please provide equipment schedules and cut sheets highlighting refrigerant information for all HVAC&R system components."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

Scientific study of refrigerants for LEED

EPA List of Substitutes for Ozone Depleting Products

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

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 helps 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.”

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-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

• "Develop and implement a Measurement & Verification (M&V) Plan consistent with Option D: Calibrated Simulation (Savings Estimation Method 2), or Option B: Energy Conservation Measure Isolation, as specified in the International Performance Measurement & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Volume III: Concepts and Options for Determining Energy Savings in New Construction, April, 2003.
• The M&V period shall cover a period of no less than one year of post-construction occupancy."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide October 2005, page 221

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Install continuous metering equipment for the following end-uses:

• 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 risers and outdoor irrigation systems

"Develop a Measurement and 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-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 173

LEE-NC Version 2.2

• "Confirm the IPMVP Option pursued by the project.
• Upload a copy of the M&V plan
• Provide a narrative describing any special circumstances or calculation explanations. Section 3.2 of IPMVP Volume III provides specific content requirements for the M&V plan."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, pages 223-224

LEED-NC Version 2.1

• "Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the 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 version 2001.
• Provide a copy of the M&V plan following IPMVP, 2001version, including an executive summary."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 173

"No further documentation is ever likely to be necessary to prove compliance. The USGBC reserves the right to request documentation if this credit is audited."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

Hamilton Hall (LEED-NC v2.1)

International Performance Measurements & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Volume III: Concepts and Options for Determining Energy Savings in New Construction, April 2003

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, Banks Cowperthwaite and Grant Streets,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 via 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

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.

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-NC Version 2.2

See updated Credit Interpretation Rulings issued by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"Provide at least 35% of the building'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.

DETERMINE THE BASELINE ELECTRICITY USE

Use the annual electricity consumption from the results of EA Credit 1.

OR

Use the Department of Energy (DOE) Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) database to determine the estimated electricity use."

- LEED-NC Version 2.2 Reference Guide, page 227

LEED-NC Version 2.1

"Provide at least 50% of the building'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."

- LEED-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide, page 181

LEED-NC Version 2.2

"OPTION 1

• Provide the name of the green power provider and contract term.
• Enter total annual electricity consumption (kWh) and total annual green power purchase.

OPTION 2

• Provide the name of the renewable energy certificate vendor.
• Enter total annual electricity consumption (kWh).
• Enter the value of the green tags purchased (kWh)."

LEED-NC Version 2.1

• "Provide the LEED Letter Template, signed by the owner or other responsible party, documenting that the supplied renewable 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-NC Version 2.1 Reference Guide page 181

"Please provide:

• Documentation that the supplied renewable power meets the referenced Green-e requirements.
• Documentation that amount of contracted purchase of Green Power is equivalent to 50% of the building energy."

- LEED-NC version 2.1: Audited Credit Requirements; USGBC

Blackstone (LEED-NC v2.1)

Center for Resource Solutions Green-e Product Certification Requirements

The Green Power Network - US Department of Energy

HGCI Greenhouse Gas Inventory