Which of the following suggestions should the LEED AP give to the project owner?

A LEED Building Design and Construction project includes an outdoor stage for theatrical performances. In pursuit of Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction the engineer has specified an LED fixture to illuminate actors on the stage while limiting light pollution.

Which of the following suggestions should the LEED AP give to the project owner?
A . Modify the design to enclose the performance areas
B . Calculate the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project
C . Compare the energy consumption against an alternative
D . Inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction

Answer: D

Explanation:

The Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction aims to minimize the adverse effects of artificial lighting on the night sky, human health, and wildlife1. However, the credit does not apply to lighting that is required for safety, security, or emergency purposes2. According to the LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, lighting for theatrical performances is considered an emergency purpose and is exempt from the credit requirements3. Therefore, the LEED AP should inform the owner that the LED fixture is exempt from Sustainable Sites Credit, Light Pollution Reduction and does not need to be modified or compared to an alternative. Enclosing the performance areas would not reduce light pollution, but rather increase energy consumption and affect the outdoor experience. Calculating the return on investment over the 20-year life of the project is irrelevant to the credit and would not help achieve it.

References:

Light Pollution Reduction

Light Pollution Reduction: Sustainable Site Credit for LEED Existing Building O+M

[LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction v4], page 581