For projects not eligible for the ENERGY STAR® rating, the project team could demonstrate compliance with Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance by

For projects not eligible for the ENERGY STAR® rating, the project team could demonstrate compliance with Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance by
A . conducting an energy audit that develops a commissioning plan for the building’s major energy using system
B . providing a program demonstrating no or low cost measures of improvement to increase energy efficiency
C . developing a master list of findings identifying systems or pieces of equipment including the defects or problems and proposed solutions
D . demonstrating an energy efficiency of at least 25% better than the national average for typical buildings of similar type based on energy source

Answer: D

Explanation:

Projects not eligible for the ENERGY STAR rating must demonstrate an energy efficiency of at least 25% better than the national average for typical buildings of similar type based on energy source. This can be done by using the ENERGY STAR Target Finder tool or a custom approved by USGBC.

Reference: LEED AP O+M Exam Guide, page 305; LEED v4.1 O+M Reference Guide, page 97.

For projects not eligible for the ENERGY STAR® rating, an alternative path to demonstrate compliance with the Energy and Atmosphere Prerequisite, Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance, is to show that the building’s energy efficiency is significantly higher than the baseline established for similar buildings. Demonstrating energy efficiency that is at least 25% better than the national average for comparable buildings, based on the type of energy used, provides a quantifiable metric that reflects the building’s superior performance. This approach aligns with LEED’s goal to encourage higher energy efficiency standards and reduce environmental impact through improved building performance.

Reference: This alternative compliance path for projects not eligible for ENERGY STAR® rating is outlined in the LEED for Building Operations and Maintenance reference guide under the Energy and Atmosphere category. It provides a method for buildings to achieve the Minimum Energy Efficiency Performance prerequisite by exceeding the energy performance standards of similar buildings, promoting an advanced level of energy conservation in building operations as emphasized in LEED AP O+M training materials.