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ROLE OF ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS AS “VALUE-ADDED”
MEMBERS OF THE LEED®-NC PROJECT TEAMS
WITH EMPHASIS ON INNOVATION IN DESIGN CREDITS

By

Qingwei Li

A THESIS

Submitted to
Michigan State University
in the partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE
Construction Management

2010

ABSTRACT
ROLE OF ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS AS “VALUE-ADDED” MEMBERS
OF THE LEED®-NC PROJECTS TEAMS
WITH EMPHASIS ON INNOVATION IN DESIGN CREDITS
By
Qingwei Li

To measure and evaluate Green Building performance, Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) rating system was established by US. Green Building
Council (USGBC) in 2000. LEED for new construction (LEED-NC) is one of the widely
used rating systems. The responsibilities of General Contractors and Construction
Managers, and electrical contractors on LEED-NC projects have been outlined in related
report. Using these reports as background work, the research aims to analyze “Value-
added” opportunities of electrical contractors on LEED-NC projects with focus on
Innovation in Design credits.

As electrical contractors develop LEED related expertise and start pursuing these
projects, they realize that their capability statements need to reflect their capabilities to
present themselves as “Value-Added” partners of LEED project teams. However, very
little literature or reference manuals are available to assist electrical contractors.
Therefore, this research develops a sample capability statement for electrical contractors
developing effective proposals for LEED-NC projects. This report includes elements of a
typical capability statement with additional sections meant to highlight an electrical

contractor’s capability to handle LEED project successfully.

To The LORD

For the Love, Faith and Hope in HIM

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This thesis and my experience at Michigan State University would not have been possible
without the guidance, support, and encouragement of some people. With this in mind, I

would like to thank all the people who directly or indirectly helped me in this process.

First, I owe my deepest gratitude to Dr. Matt Syal for his guidance, support and
encouragement during my Masters education. He inculcated important value on my

academic study and life experience which are not useful for today but for my future life.

I would like to thank Dr. Sinem Korkmaz and Dr. Sue Grady for their valuable input and
guidance in accomplishing this thesis. I am thankful to Professor Marcus Metoyer for his
help and support when I started this research. I also would like to acknowledge ELECTRI

International for providing funding for this research project.

To all those who taught and/or helped me throughout my Masters education, Professor
Timmothy Mrozowski, Dr. Tariq Abdelhamid, Dr. Mohamed El-Gafy, Dr. Arrnagan

Korkmaz, Dr. Dennis Welch, Dr. Peilei Fan, Dr. Snider Renate M, and the staff at School

of Planning, Design and Construction, I express my sincere gratitude.

I thank Amanjeet Sign for his help, advice and encouragement since I started my Masters
program; I thank Kweku Ofei-Amoh for his inputs and assistance of this research; I am
grateful to my other research colleagues, George Berghom, Heather Moore and Stanley

Samuel, and my labmates, Lipika Swarup, Wenda Nofera, J ing Du, Qi Wang and Bo Zhu

for their advice and support. I deeply thank my friends who I did not list their name

above, thanks for their supports and understanding.

Most importantly, I would like to give my utmost thanks to my parents, Guangxin Li and
Jun Wei, who always unconditionally support and love me. Thank you for encouraging

and insisting me to see the outside world.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................... ix
LIST OF FIGURES .................................................................................. xi
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................... 1
1.1 Overview ..................................................................................... 1
1.2 Need Statement ............................................................................... 3
1.3 Research Goal and Objectives .............................................................. 4
1.4 Research Methodology ...................................................................... 5
1.4.1 Objective 1 ............................................................................. 7
1.4.2 Objective 2 ............................................................................. 7
1.4.3 Objective 3 ........................................................................... 10
1.4.4 Objective 4 ........................................................................... 12
1.5 Research Limitations and Contribution ................................................. 13
1.5.1 Research Limitations ............................................................... 13
1.5.2 Deliverables and Research Contribution ......................................... 13
1.6 Summary .................................................................................... 14
CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW .......................................................................... 15
2.0 Introduction ................................................................................. 15
2.1 Green Building and LEED ................................................................ 15
2.1.1 USGBC and LEED v 2.2 .......................................................... 16
2.1.2 LEED 2009 .......................................................................... 17
2.1.3 Innovation in Design Category ................................................... 19
2.2 LEED and Contractors ..................................................................... 21
2.2.1 LEED and General Contractor/Construction Manager ........................ 21
2.2.2 LEED and Electrical Contractor .................................................. 23
2.3 Business Proposal/Capability Statement/Statement of Qualifications .............. 25
2.3.1 Typical Features for Contractors/Subcontractors .............................. 25
2.3.2 Green Features ...................................................................... 27
2.4 Summary .................................................................................... 28
CHAPTER 3
ANALYSIS OF ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR’ S ROLE IN INNOVATION IN
DESIGN PROCESS ................................................................................ 29
3.1 Overview ..................................................................................... 29
3.2 Importance of Innovation in Design (ID) for Contractors and Electrical
Contractors ....................................................................................... 3 1
3.3 Methodology ................................................................................. 32
3.3.1 Credit Interpretation Request/Ruling (CIR) ...................................... 33
3.3.2 Content Analysis ..................................................................... 35

vi

3.4 Data Collection .............................................................................. 37

3.5 Data Analysis and Outputs ................................................................ 39
3.5.1 Approved/Denied/Undecided CIR’s Related to ID Credit ..................... 39
3.5.2 Outputs ............................................................................... 40
3.6 Verification and Closing .................................................................. 48
CHAPTER 4
BUSINESS PROPOSAL/CAPABILITY STATEMENT/STATEMENT OF
QUALIFICATIONS ................................................................................ 50
4.1 Overview .................................................................................... 50
4.1.1 Importance of Capability Statement .............................................. 50
4.2 Typical Capability Statement for Contractors .......................................... 51
4.2.1 Company Overview ................................................................. 52
4.2.2 Management and Organization .................................................... 53
4.2.3 Project Preconstruction Department .............................................. 55
4.2.4 Project Operations and Controlling Department ................................ 56
4.2.5 Administration and Finance Department ......................................... 57
4.2.6 Past Project Experience ............................................................. 57
4.3 Additional Capabilities for Green Project ............................................... 58
4.3.1 LEED Department and LEED® AP ............................................... 58
4.3.2 “Green” Training Program ......................................................... 61
4.3.3 LEED Department and Company’s Comprehensive Capability for LEED-
NC Projects ................................................................................. 62
4.3.4 LEED Project Experience .......................................................... 66
4.3.5 Company’s Corporate Commitment to Sustainability .......................... 69
4.4 Summary .................................................................................... 70
CHAPTER 5
LEED-NC 2009 and Electrical Contractors ..................................................... 72
5.1 Introduction ................................................................................. 72
5.1.1 Overview of LEED v3 .............................................................. 72
5.1.2 Review Electrical Contractors’ Role on LEED Projects ....................... 74
5.2 Comparison of LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009 and Reanalysis of the Impact
of These Changes on Electrical Contractors ................................................ 75
5.2.1 Overall Changes .................................................................... 76
5.2.2 New Category-Regional Priority .................................................. 76
5.2.3 Detail Changes on Credits Related to Electrical Contractors and the Impact
of these Changes ........................................................................... 80
5.2.4 Overall Impact of Changes on Electrical Contractors .......................... 87
5.3 Summary .................................................................................... 88
CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION .............................................................. 89
6.1 Overview .................................................................................... 89
6.2 Summary of Research Objectives Achieved ............................................ 90
6.2.1 Objective 1 ........................................................................... 90

vii

6.2.2 Objective 2 ........................................................................... 91

6.2.3 Objective 3 ........................................................................... 92
6.2.4 Objective 4 ........................................................................... 92
6.3 Inferences and Conclusion ................................................................ 93
6.4 Areas of Future Research .................................................................. 95
6.5 Summary ..................................................................................... 96
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Cle of Innovation in Design Credit Related to Electrical
Contractors ....................................................................................... 97
Appendix B: Credit Checklist of LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009 ............... 121
Appendix C: Comparison Tables of LEED-NC Credits Related to Electrical
Contractors ..................................................................................... 126
BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................. 155

viii

LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1: Credit Related to ECs and Having Exemplary Performance ..................... 29
Table 3.2: Enclosed Example Slides ............................................................. 41
Table 3.3A: ID Credits Checklist for Electrical Contractors (ECs) - Approved ........... 46
Table 3.3B: ID Credits Checklist for Electrical Contractors (ECs) - Denied and
Undecided ............................................................................................ 47
Table 4.1: Sample LEED Project .................................................................. 68
Table 5 .1: LEED 2009 and LEED v2.2 Points Comparison ................................... 78
Table 5 .2: Examples from Regional Priorities based on Zip Codes .......................... 79

Table 5.3: Comparison of Credit Subtitle between LEED 2009 and LEED-NC v2.2. . ...80

Table 5.4: Comparison Table of $804.3 ......................................................... 81
Table 5.5: Comparison Table of IEQc8.1 ........................................................ 83
Table 5.6: Comparison Table of IEQc6.1 ........................................................ 85
Table B.1 LEED for New Construction v 2.2 Registered Project Checklist ............... 122
Table B.2 LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations Project

Checklist ............................................................................................. 124
Table C.1: Comparison Table of SSpl ......................................................... 127
Table C.2: Comparison Table of SSc5 .1 ........................................................ 128
Table C.3: Comparison Table of MRc2 ........................................................ 130
Table C.4: Comparison Table of IEQc3.1 ...................................................... 132
Table C.5: Comparison Table of IEQc3.2 ...................................................... 133
Table C.6: Comparison Table of SSc8 .......................................................... 135
Table C.7: Comparison Table of EAp2 ......................................................... 137

Table C.8: Comparison Table of EAcl ......................................................... 139

Table C.9: Comparison Table of EAc2 ......................................................... 142
Table C.10: Comparison Table of EAc5 ......................................................... 144
Table C. 1 1: Comparison Table of IEch ...................................................... 146
Table C.12: Comparison Table of IEQc4.1 ..................................................... 147
Table C.13: Comparison Table of IEQc4.2 .................................................... 149
Table C. 14: Comparison Table of EAp3 ........................................................ 150
Table C.15: Comparison Table of EAc3 ....................................................... 152

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: Research Structure ..................................................................... 6
Figure 1.2: Format Slide for Cle ................................................................ 10
Figure 2.1: Categories of Literature Review .................................................... 15
Figure 2.2: Impact of LEED-NC on GCs/CMs .................................................. 22
Figure 2.3: Impact of LEED-NC on Electrical Contractors ................................... 26
Figure 3.1: The Discussion Point of ID Category .............................................. 31
Figure 3.2: Search Window for Cle ............................................................ 34
Figure 3.3: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance ......................... 42
Figure 3.4 Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance ..................... 43
Figure 3.5: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance ........................ 43
Figure 3.6: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 020206 .................. 44
Figure 3.7: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 053003 ................... 44
Figure 3.8: Denied Educational CIR within Innovative Performance ....................... 45
Figure 3.9: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance ........................ 45
Figure 3.10: Undecided Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance ...................... 46
Figure 4.1: XY Z Organization Structure ......................................................... 54
Figure 4.2: XYZ Organization Structure with LEED Department ............................ 60
Figure 4.3: Sample LEED Project ................................................................ 68
Figure 5.1: New Categories for LEED 2009 (LEED v3 2010) ................................ 73
Figure 5.2 TRACI Impact Process (TRAC12010) .............................................. 77
Figure A. 1: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 052804 ............... 98

xi

Figure A.2: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050704 ............... 98

Figure A.3: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 052103 ............... 99
Figure A.4: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 121802 ............... 99
Figure A.5: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 021902 ............. 100
Figure A.6: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 032607 ............. 100
Figure A.7: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091806 ............. 101
Figure A.8: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 032007. . . . . ....101
Figure A.9: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 022107. . . . . ....102
Figure A.10: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 011403........102
Figure A.11: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 111207. . ......103
Figure A.12: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 012508.. ............ 103
Figure A. 1 3: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 102703.. ............ 104
Figure A. 14: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 061003.. ............ 104
Figure A.15: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 123002... ........... 105
Figure A. 1 6: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 051702.. ............ 105
Figure A. 17: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 121207.. ................ 106
Figure A. 1 8: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 082608.. ................ 106
Figure A. 19: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 060206.. ................ 107
Figure A.20: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012606.. ................ 107
Figure A.21: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 111704.. ................ 108
Figure A.22: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 020604.. ................ 108
Figure A.23: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091503.. ................ 109
Figure A.24: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091103.. ................ 109

xii

Figure A.25:
Figure A.26:
Figure A.27:
Figure A.28:
Figure A.29:
Figure A30:
Figure A.31:
Figure A32:
Figure A33:
Figure A34:
Figure A35:
Figure A.36:
Figure A.37:
Figure A.38:
Figure A.39:
Figure A40:
Figure A.41:
Figure A42:
Figure A43:
Figure A44:

Figure A.45:

Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050703.. ................ 110
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 070403.. ................ 110
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 053003.. ................ 111
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 040703.. ................ 111
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012203.. ................ 112
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120903.. ................ 112
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120603.. ................ 113
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 072502.. ................ 113
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 062102.. ................ 114
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 051702.. ................ 114
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012402.. ................ 1 15
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012302.. ................ 115
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 110201.. ................ 116
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 030204.. ................ 116
Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120507 .. ............... 117
Denied Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 11 1607.. ................ 117
Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 011909.. ........... 118
Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120602 .. .......... 118
Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050402.. ........... 119
Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 092401a .......... 119
Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 092401b. . .........120

xiii

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview

The concept of sustainable development has evolved rapidly over the last two
decades. It is defined by the United Nations (UN) as “meeting the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (UN
1987). Although this concept has affected many fields, it has made a significant impact

on the construction industry in the form of the Green Building Movement (Kibert 2005).

Green Building is defined as: “a building that provides the specified building
performance requirements while minimizing disturbance to and improving the
functioning of local, regional, and global ecosystems both during and after its
construction and specified service life” (ASTM 2005). It has also been defined as
“specific techniques in assessment and application of principles of sustainability to built
environment” (Kibert 2005). Existing research suggests that green buildings can reduce
energy and material usage, and improve occupant health and performance (USGBC 2009,
Singh and Syal 2009). Therefore, in order to promote green buildings and measure
building performance, the US. Green Building Council (USGBC) established the

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building rating system.

The LEED rating system aims to “encourage and accelerate global adoption of
sustainable green building and development practices through the creation and
implementation of universally understood and accepted tools and performance criteria”

(USGBC 2009). Kibert (2005) reports that “The LEED standard removed ambiguity in

the loosely interpreted concepts associated with sustainability and green building.” The
LEED rating system offers guidelines for sustainable design and construction

development.

The USGBC’s LEED is the most popular Green Building rating system in the US.
Many state and local governments use the LEED rating system as the state or local
requirements to evaluate their buildings. By June 2009, there were over 3,000
commercial LEED certified projects and around 25,000 commercial LEED registered
projects, as well as over 100,000 related professionals designated as LEED® Accredited
Professionals (LEED® AP). LEED has also attracted global attention. For example,
LEED has been studied in India, Canada, Italy, and China (Syal 2009, Potbhare et a1.
2009, USGBC 2009).Canada and India have established LEED Canada and LEED India.
Although much research related to the LEED requirements has been conducted, most of
the research on LEED is related to the design phase and little is related to the construction

phase.

In recent years, contractors and subcontractors have become aware of the importance
of building green, and the construction industry and university research groups have
begun to focus on the contractors’ role in LEED projects. For example, the Associated
General Contractors (AGC) funded a Michigan State University (MSU) research project
to study the impact of LEED-New Construction (LEED-NC) projects on general
contractors (GCs)/construction managers (CMs) (Syal et al. 2007). The output of this
research is used for AGC’s training material and has received much positive feedback

from the construction industry. ELECTRI International also funded a MSU research

project to study the role of electrical contractors (ECs) on LEED projects with a focus on

commissioning (Syal et a1. 2009).

1.2 Need Statement

With the rapid growth of the application of Green/LEED Buildings, many
subcontractors want to extend their involvement in LEED projects. ECs, as one of the
major subcontractors, have started exploring LEED projects and are looking for related
research, guidelines, and assistance. Riley et al. (2007) and Syal et a1. (2009) explained
ECs’ role in LEED-NC projects. They identified the ECs’ related credits in regular
categories of LEED-NC: Sustainable Sites (SS), Water Efficiency (WE), Energy &

Atmosphere (.EA), Materials & Resources (MR) and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ).

The Innovation in Design (ID) is the last category in LEED-NC v2.2. This category
provides bonus credits for projects and has been shown to have moderate impact on
contactors (Syal et al. 2007). Also, Syal et al. (2009) reported that ID credit is recognized
as a “Value-Added” opportunity for ECs in LEED-NC projects. However, both reports
lack firrther analysis of the ID category. In the LEED-NC rating system, projects can gain
up to five points under the ID category. One credit is for LEED® AP, and the other four
can be achieved by providing innovative strategies or exemplary project work
performance under existing LEED credits. ECs may be required to propose or participate
in the projects’ innovative strategies or provide exemplary work performance. Therefore,
a better understanding of the ID category will help ECs become “Value-Added” members

of LEED-NC project teams.

Owners, designers, and GCs/CMs tend to choose ECs who demonstrate an
understanding of these requirements and whose organizations show capabilities to handle
these projects successfully. As ECs become familiar with the LEED requirements, and
start pursuing LEED projects, they realize that their business proposals need to reflect
their LEED-related capabilities in order to present themselves as “Value-Added”
members of LEED-NC project teams. Since the Green Building Movement is still
developing, little literature or reference manuals are available to assist ECs in developing

effective business proposals as capability statements for LEED projects.

All existing literature has been done based on LEED-NC v2.2. However, the new
version, LEED-NC 2009, launched in March 2009, and the USGBC requires all new
projects which will register afier June 2009 to be registered at LEED-NC 2009. The
content of the Reference Guide has been updated. For example, the ID category’s points
have increased to six. The effects of these changes on the prior research and their
influence on EC3’ role and responsibility in LEED projects become emerging questions,

and the author will discuss these in Chapter 5.

1.3 Research Goal and Objectives

The overall research goal is to assist ECs to become “Value-Added” members of the
LEED project teams. This research is funded by ELECTRI International as a continuation
of Syal et a1. (2009). This research will identify the overall role of ECs on LEED-NC
projects with an emphasis on achieving ID Credits, and will also develop a sample
business proposal/capability statement/ statement of qualifications (in the following
sections, the author uses capability statement to refer to a business proposal/capability

4

statement/statement of qualifications) to help ECs state their case as potential “Value-
Added” members of LEED project teams. The goal will be achieved by meeting the

following objectives:

1. Summarize the overall role of ECs on LEED projects based on the literature

review

2. Analyze and determine the role and responsibilities of ECs in the ID category of

LEED-NC v2.2.

3. Develop a sample business proposal/capability statement/statement of
qualifications for ECs in order to assist them to present themselves to owners,

architects, and GCs/CMs as “Value-Added” members of LEED project teams

4. Summarize the changes in related LEED credits based on LEED-NC 2009 and

discuss the effect of these changes on the output of Objectives 1 and 2.

1.4 Research Methodology

This study aims to assist ECs in becoming “Value-Added” members of LEED-NC
projects. Figure 1.1 shows the research structure in order to understand the study

methodology. The work steps for achieving the four main objectives are presented below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summarize overall role of ECs based Review of contractor and
on the literature review subcontractor capability statement 3
literature
I """ 'l """"""""""""""""" ‘1
I I
. Definechredits Inn-""----------------------, |
' l
I I Exemplary Approved I I
I
I Cle related to EC I Performance : I
I r Denied I I
I i _ Innovative I I
l i Performance Undecided I I
| I
I L ............................. I |
I l
I Feedback from Industry H I
I Task Force I Output 1 I I
I I
I __________________________ I _ __________ I
F ———————— - ——————— I _ —L ————— fi
I Sample capability statement for ECs for I
l LEED-NC projects I
I Feedback from . i— I
I Industry Task Force ‘ I
I I Output 2 I
L— ———————— -I —————— —u — — — — — — _ J
I Summarize the changes in related LEED credits I
LEED-NC 2009 and discuss the effect of these _
I changes on the output of objectives 1 and 2 I

 

 

 

 

 

i , i
3 I Output 3 I :
I ................................ i ......... .l

 

Figure 1.1 Research Structure

1.4.1 Objective — l: Summarize the overall role of ECs on LEED projects based on the

literature review.

To achieve this objective, the LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide and existing
literature were reviewed. The existing literature includes the industry research at MSU
on Green Building including work with AGC and ELECTRI International, and at
Pennsylvania State University (Syal et al. 2009, Riley et at. 2007). Finally, the overall
role of ECs on regular LEED credits was summarized. In addition to the overall

impact, Syal et al. (2009) focused on EC’s role in commissioning.

1.4.2 Objective — 2: Analyze and determine the role and responsibilities of ECs in the

Innovation in Design (ID) category of LEED-NC v2.2.

For a LEED project, two types of innovation strategies qualify for the innovation
credit: (1) by demonstrating that the project performance exceeds the requirements of
certain existing LEED credits, and (2) by developing innovative strategies for projects
which can demonstrate a comprehensive approach and have significant, measurable
environmental benefits (LEED 2007). The ID category has different requirements and
is lacking in reference. Therefore, based on the literature review of several
methodologies and comparison with the research process, the author decided to use

content analysis to achieve the objective.

Content analysis is a research methodology that anticipates the inference of the
text through analyzing the frequentness or relationship of verbal or nonverbal
materials. Singleton and Straits (2005) provide its basic idea as “to reduce the total
content of a communication to a set of categories that represent some characteristic of
research interest.” Content analysis is a mixed quantitative and qualitative study

7

methodology. Pahnquist (2010) provide two types of content analysis: conceptual

analysis and relational analysis.

The steps A, B, C and D listed below are process explanations following the basic

research steps of content analysis/pattem matching to achieve Objective 2.

A. Data collection: Compile I&D Credit Interpretation Requests (CIRs) Related to

ECs from USGBC’s Website.

CIR is a process by which the project team can seek LEED-related guidance
from the USGBC staff special to the project or regarding ambiguity in the LEED
reference book. A CIR for I&D credits is usually an innovative or exemplary
performance idea submitted to the USGBC for their evaluation. After the
evaluation, the USGBC indicates whether the submitted idea is suitable for

approaching an ID credit.

The CIRs which submitted for the previous versions before June 2009 are
available on the USGBC’s website. In this research, the author searched Cle
under the ID category and reviewed them to select the research-needed data: Cle

which are related, and may be potentially related to ECs and under ID category.

B. Defining the Unit: Categorizing the Selected CIRs as “Exemplary Performance” or

“Innovative Performance”

Exemplary performance and innovative performance are two types of
strategies in the II) category. Based on the descriptions of the selected CIRs, each

of these is categorized into exemplary or innovative ideas.

C. Data Analysis: Analyzing Related CIRs by Categorizing them as “Approved,”

“Denied,” and “Undecided” by Identifying ECs’ Related Work Scope.

Each CIR receives its ruling from the USGBC. Based on selected CIRs’
rulings, they were separated as approved, denied, or undecided. Approved Cle
are those that the USGBC states their ideas can lead to ID credits. Denied are
those that received a negative response for different reasons. The remaining CIRs
where the USGBC did not answer yes or no, but provided some suggestions were
categorized as undecided. While reviewing the selected data, ECs’ related work

scope was analyzed and identified.

D. Analysis Outputs: Summarizing the Analysis done in Earlier Steps and Developing

a Detailed Checklist of Related CIRs.

After the analysis in steps 2B, C and D, every selected CIR was summarized
and presented in a format as shown in Figure 1.2. It includes which rating system
the project submitted and the submitted date of the CIR, in order to search the
regional CIR conveniently. In addition, “Title and Credit” provides a short title
for the CIR and the performance category it belongs to. “Project” includes general
descriptions of the project and the proposed idea. “EC Related Area(s)” explains
the work related to ECs in the CIR proposal. The “Ruling” provides the response
of the USGBC on the CIR and may include the reason for their approval or denial.
In addition, a checklist of ID CIRs were also developed that can fast track what

ECs’ related work was in each CIR.

Based on the analysis completed in the last step, past projects’ related
experience in the ID category was finalized, and suggestions of working on the

“Value-Added” opportunity was provided in the relating chapters.

 

 

 

- Title and Credit

- Project
(Project general description, Intent and Submittals)

- Electrical contractor (EC) Related Area (5)

- Ruling

 

 

 

Figure 1.2: Format Slide for CIRs

E. Finalize the Work done in Objective 2 with Feedback from the Industry Task Force.

In this step, the preliminary research output under Objective 2 was
summarized and sent to the Industry Task Force members from the ELECTRI
International. The feedback from the Industry Task Force was included in the

finalizing of the output of Objective 2.

1.4.3 Objective - 3: Develop a sample business proposal/capability statement/statement
of qualifications for electrical contractors to assist them while presenting themselves to
owners, architects, general contractors/construction managers as “Value-Added”

members of LEED-NC project teams.

10

A. Review Existing Literature for Contractors’ and Subcontractors’ Capability

Statement

In this step, the literature related to typical contractors’ and subcontractors’
capability statement was reviewed. Also, major elements/sections of a standard

Business Proposal for construction projects were identified.

B. Develop a sample EC ’3 capability statement (Including ECs’ Capability to Handle

LEED Projects)

Based on the identified elements/sections of a typical capability statement, a
sample business proposal for a typical electrical construction project was
developed. Then, additional sections meant to highlight an EC ’3 capability to
handle LEED-NC projects successfully were developed and added. Most of these
sections were developed based on the research completed by ELECTRI
International, including the research work at Michigan State University, and the
ID related output of Objective 2. The capability statement includes the following

LEED-related sectors in addition to typical sections for a construction proposal:
0 Revised organization structure

0 LEED training program

LEED department and capability

LEED project experience
0 Corporate commitment to sustainability

The detail content and related analysis is available in the relevant chapter.

11

C. Finalize the Work of Objective 3 with Feedback from the Industry Task Force

Similar to Objective 2, the preliminary output from this objective was shared
with the Industry Task Force, and their feedback was incorporated into the final

output for this section.

1.4.4 Objective — 4: Summarize the changes in related LEED credits based on LEED-NC

2009 and discuss the effect of these changes on the output of Objectives 1 and 2.

A. Review the LEED-NC 2009 and Related Literature in order to provide a Brief

Introduction of the LEED-NC 2009

In this step, the new rating systems are summarized and introduced. Related
studies of the changes of the new rating systems are also reviewed and

categorized.

B. Compare and Compile the Requirements of Related Credits between LEED-NC

v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009

The outputs of Objectives 1 and 2 is reviewed and compared to the ECs,
related credit; the changes of credits’ requirements; and their weights related to

ECs between LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009 were identified.

C. Based on the Analysis of the Changes and the New Category, Improve the Prior

Work and Provide Suggestions

After the comparison, the changes in existing credits were summarized. The
new category—Regional Priority—was analyzed and defined according to its

impact on EC5. Also, the effects on prior outputs were assessed and possible

12

strategies for ECs to transition smoothly from LEED-NC v2.2 to LEED 2009

were suggested.

1.5 Research Limitations and Contributions
1.5.1 Research Limitations
1. The research focuses on the LEED-NC v2.2 rating system.

2. On the USGBC’s website, most ID Cle are for the LEED-NC v2.0 & 2.1 and v2.2

projects; there are very few guidelines for other rating systems.

3. This research uses the terms “sustainable buildings” and “green buildings”

interchangeably.

1.5.2 Deliverables and Research Contribution

This research attempts to provide extra opportunities for ECs to add substantial value
to LEED projects. It summarizes the possible role of ECs on ID credits by analyzing
related Cle from other projects and provides a sample of an EC’s business
proposal/capability statement/statement of qualifications. These outputs were provided in
the following chapters and relevant appendix. In addition, to improve and modify prior
work related to ECs based on LEED-NC 2009, a reevaluation of the prior research was

provided.

13

1.6 Summary

Due to the expanding awareness about sustainability and Green Buildings, contractors
and subcontractors see this building sector as a potential business opportunity. Also, with
the growing green building market, the USGBC’s LEED rating system has expanded its
assessment criteria. The need to research these changes and develop a guideline for ECs’
self-development within the latest version of Green Building rating system is exigent.
This research is attempting to respond to this need. This chapter outlines the research

need, goal and objectives, methodology, limitations, and research contribution.

14

CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction

In this chapter, literature is reviewed to form three categories. The first category
reviews literature about the green building and LEED rating system, and it includes the
overview of LEED 2009, which is the latest version launched by the USGBC in June
2009. The second category focuses on and summarizes existing literature related to the
contactors’ role in LEED projects. The last category establishes the existing knowledge

of the capability statement. The structure of literature review is shown in Figure 2.1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Green Building
LEED / Green Buildings _ I LEED v 2.2
i ' LEED V 2009
' ID in LEED
Literature Contractors’ Role on ' GC / CM
Review LEED Projects 1 ' EC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Proposal /
Capability Statement/
Statement of
Qualifications

. Typical Features
r - Green/ LEED
Features

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 2.1 Categories of Literature Review

2.1 Green Building and LEED

The building design, construction, and operations industry has tremendous influence

on the environment. The annual consummation of buildings takes more than 30% of the

15

energy and 60% of the electricity used in the United State (LEED 2009). Green Building
or Sustainable Building aims to reduce the energy use of buildings and to lessen the
negative impact on the environment. There are several research studies on the attributes
of green building. The major attributes included energy efficiency and renewable energy,
land and water resources, resource conservation and recycling, and indoor environmental
quality (Syal et a1. 2007). Various green building rating systems/measuring tools were
developed to assess whether a building can be called “green”. LEED rating system is one

of the most popular green benchmarks.

2.1.1 USGBC and LEED v 2.2

The US. Green Building Council (USGBC) was established in 1993. The members
of the USGBC have realized the need of a green buildings’ measuring tool/system, and
launched LEED after years of researching and acting on those findings. “LEED addresses
the different project development and delivery processes that exist in the US. building
design and construction market, through rating systems for specific building typologies,
sectors, and project scopes.” (U SGBC 2009) It includes LEED for Core & Shell (CS),
NEW Construction (NC), Schools, Neighborhood Development, Retail, Healthcare,
Homes, Commercial Interiors (CI), and for Existing Buildings: Operation & Maintenance

(EB).

Among these rating systems, LEED for new construction and major renovation
(LEED-NC) is mainly used for rating new commercial and institutional projects. The
project types contain office buildings, high-rise residential buildings, government
buildings, recreational facilities, manufacturing plants, and laboratories (U SGBC 2010).

16

LEED-NC v2.2 was released in 2005 and was used until the new version LEED-NC
2009 was published. The intent of LEED-NC is to “assist in the creation of high
performance, healthful, durable, affordable and environmentally sound commercial and
institutional buildings.” (LEED 2007) The LEED-NC v2.2 rating system measures the
building performance in six categories: Sustainable Site (SS), Water Efficiency (WE),
Energy and Atmosphere (EA), Materials and Resources (MR), Indoor Environmental
Quality (IEQ), and Innovation in Design (ID) with a total of 69 points. Projects are
awarded LEED certification in four levels: certified with 26-32 points, silver with 33—38

points, gold with 39-51 points and platinum with 52-69 (LEED 2007).

2.1.2 LEED 2009

In March 2009, the newest version, LEED 2009, was promoted by the USGBC. It
“takes advantage of new technologies and advancements in building science while
prioritizing energy efficiency and C02 emissions reductions” (U SGBC 2010). Many
professionals studied the new version and provided the changes and upgrades as shown

below (U SGBC 2010, Gonchar 2009, Taryn 2009, and Greenpower 2010):

o Harmonization: Consolidated and aligned credits and prerequisites in LEED-NC,

 

LEED Schools, and LEED-CS rating systems. Replaced the 69-point scale to a
100-point scale with regional and innovation credits providing another 10 points as
a bonus. The new scoring system is 40-49 points for Certified, 50-59 points for
Silver, 60-79 points for Gold, and 80+ points for Platinum. Gonchar (2009)
thought this change makes LEED more use-friendly, especially for those who

work on multiple projects.

17

0 Credit Weightings: Involved technical advancements. The US. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA)’s Tools for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical
and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI) categories are used as the basis for
weighting each credit, which is also used for Life Cycle assessment. In addition,
the USGBC regards the weightings provided by the National Institute of Standards
and Technology (NIST). This change reveals the potential of each credit’s value in
making changing. The different credit weighting also better presents the intent of

the USGBC to reduce energy use and C02.

0 Regionalization: Encourages addressing special environmental issues in different

 

geographic locations during a building’s design, construction, and operations. Six
credits are provided for given environmental zones which can be searched through

local zip code.

0 LEED Online: Upgrading the LEED online service. Several improvements are
built in the system to make it better for “speed, capacity and performance”. The
system also intends to assist/improve the communication between project team
members, such as the improvements on project organization and team member

administration (Gonchar 2009, Taryn 2009).

0 Building Certification Model: Restructuring the administration and certification to
“become a real third-party”. GBCI manages 10 organizations in a project
reviewing process, and expands the building certification infi'astructure to use the
program of the International Organization for Standard (ISO) and the American

National Standards Institute (ANSI) (Gonchar 2009, Taryn 2009).

18

Gonchar (2009) also pointed out that the new rating system “should help the USGBC
with a long-term goal of better understanding the relationship between credits and
building performance.” One analysis from the New Buildings Institute (NBI) also showed
the problem about the difficulty of collecting performance data. The new registration
request helps improve this issue. Further analysis and discussion of the new rating system

will be presented in the later chapter.

2.1.3 Innovation in Design Category

Innovation in Design (ID) is the category with the lest points, but the most flexible in
the LEED-NC rating system. It has five points in v2.2, but increased to six points in
v2009. This category includes two credits: IDcl: Innovation in Design, and IDc2: LEED®

Accredited Professional (LEED® AP).

The intent of IDcl is to provide design teams and projects an opportunity to achieve
exemplary performance above the credit’s requirements set by the LEED and/or other
Green Building categories not included in LEED. This credit could be achieved through
two paths: exemplary performance and innovative performance (LEED 2009). IDc2

requires at least one LEED® AP principal participant in the project team.

Abood (2007) explains this category as: “to promote process and design innovation,
use holistic integrated process and procedures, allow for continual improvement and

flexibility and promote early collaboration, consensus and inclusion.”

Silva’s and Ruwanpura’s (2009) project proved the importance of the ID category.

They studied 42 Canada LEED new construction projects which achieved LEED

19

Tl

 

certification, including 8 Certified projects, 15 Silver projects, and 19 Gold/Platinum
projects. The research team also reviewed and analyzed the points obtained in each
category in the LEED-NC rating system. The results showed that every single project
achieved at least two innovation points, including one for IDcl and another for having a
LEED® AP assigned to the project. In addition, the figure of LEED Points Most Of’ten
Earned (above 75%) shows that only two ID points were achieved by all the projects, and

the frequency of achieving three II) points is greater than 75%.

Lane (2005) believed that electrical contractors can contribute to both ID credits.
Because there are no specific requirements to obtain [DC], the owner’s construction cost
savings can be combined with resident/customer life cycle cost savings, and with LEED
points by the proper design or product. Lane also stated the importance of hiring a
design/building electrical contractor with an in-house LEED® AP. This credential
certifies one to complete the building systems and construction procedures required for
project certification. An electrical professional also expressed the great contribution of
having an electrical LEED® AP on the project, based on his personal experience

(Cheatharn 2009).

Syal et a1. (2007) identified that the ID category has “Moderate” impact. As a unique
category without any pre-determined performance standards, this category “provides

immense opportunities for utilizing a constructors’ input in the green building process.”

Syal et a1. (2009) included ID credits in the category which can provide the EC the
opportunity to become a “Value-Added” partner of the project team. They also suggested
that the EC should learn knowledge about green building concepts and strategies in order

to contribute to the ID category.

20

Future detailed discussion and analysis of ECs’ roles and opportunities in the ID

category is presented in Chapter Three.

2.2 LEED and Contractors

Because of the development of sustainable buildings and contractors’ awareness of
building green, more and more contractors are involving towards the Green Building
movement. In addition, some project delivery methods require LEED project members to

realize the importance and advantages of the integration in building construction.

2.2.1 LEED and General Contractor/Construction Management

The decision to build a Green/LEED building is usually made in the early design
process. However, the contractors’ implementation is also significant for delivering the
building. A good understanding of the project goal and work scope helps the
communication and cooperation between different project members. Therefore, the
project team members’ knowledge of LEED/Green building is a significant element in
order to achieve a successful LEED/Green project. There are some research groups that
provide study guidelines for GCs/CMs to better understand contractors’ contributions and

their roles and responsibilities in the project.

Syal et a1. (2007) categorized the impact of LEED credits as Major, Moderate, and
Some impact. Figure 2.2 shows where the LEED credits are distributed in these

categories.

21

 

 

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22

TI

 

There are 12 prerequisites and/or credits considered to have Major impact on

GCs/CMs; seven credits have Moderate impact; and 22 prerequisites and/or credits have

Some impact.

In this research, each credit was analyzed on main construction fimctions:

Estimation decisions and project cost

Scheduling

Project administration and documentation

Contracts and agreements

Field operations and subcontractor coordination, and

Other constructor (GC/CM) related processes

The author also suggested the study of the role of trade contractors in green buildings

as one of the future research areas. For example, the electrical contractor is one of the

pivotal roles in the Green Buildings process.

2.2.2 LEED and Electrical Contractor

With the increasing Green Building Market, “more electrical contracting firms are

grabbing hold of opportunities” during the last few years (WESCO 2009). Because of the

increasing amount of related study materials for GCs/CMs, they have gained more

experience on LEED projects and play their role in LEED projects very well. In the past

two years, excluding GCs’/CMs’ requirements on each special LEED project, there are

more study guidelines/assistants for subcontractors to understand their role and

23

responsibilities in LEED projects. Reliy (2007), Syal et a1. (2009), and Lane (2005) have

stated three of them for ECs.

Riley (2007) presented that Green Building is an emerging Green Market for ECs. In
this report, ECs’ role was identified during a projects’ design, preconstruction, and
construction process/stage. He also provided a table of LEED points most relevant to ECs

and a LEED jobsite checklist of Green Practice for ECs.

Syal et a1. (2009) categorized the ECs’ related credits as three impacts: site-practice,
products, and Value-Added opportunity. Figure 2.3 shows the distribution in each

category. In this research, they analyzed these credits for two aspects:

Pre-Construction, which includes the impact on estimation, scheduling, contracts,

construction documents, products, and the intent of the design in design phase; and

During Construction, includes the analysis of actions during construction, such as the

coordination with the GC/CM and suppliers in other trades.

This research also provided the detailed analysis of commissioning (Cx), one of the
major roles for ECs suggested by much relevant research. It finalized Cx authority’s work
scope in the planning (pre-design), design, construction, and occupancy (operation) phase,
and also explained ECs’ role of the Cx process in pre-construction and during
construction. Pre-construction activities consist of determining the scope and estimating
the cost of Cx; whereas activities during construction include system verification, Cx of
lighting controls, submittal of reviews and documentation, meetings and construction

observation, reading system manuals, and the training and warranty period.

24

Lane (2005) also suggested that being proactive can excel ECs as a LEED participant.
The author recognized SSc4.3 - alternative fuel refueling stations, SSc8 - light pollution
reduction, EAcl - optimize energy performance, EAc6 - green power, MRc2.1 —
Construction Waste Management, and IEQ c6.1 - controllability of lighting credits as

being related to the electrical contractor’s work.

2.3 Business Proposal/Capability Statement/Statement of Qualifications

The capability statement is a statement that a company uses to present its capability
and/or qualification for approaching a business/proj ect. As ECs increase their
involvement in the Green Building Market, they realize it is a necessary element for them
to present their green/LEED capabilities in their proposal to reflect that they are qualified
“Value-Added” partners of LEED project teams. Two main portions should be included
in the capability statement: typical features for contractors/subcontractors firms and

Green/LEED features of the firms.

2.3.1 Typical Features for Contractors/Snbcontractors

In this aspect, those features should reflect companies’lcontractors’ professional
capabilities during the work performance and related services. Arend et al. (2009) and
Vigil (2009) included the following items as their major parts of the capabilities

statement:

9 Company Description/Background

25

 

Tr

 

 

 

 

Impact Categories

I

 

 

 

Products "Value-Added” Opportunity

SSp1: Const. Activity
Pollution Prevention
SSCS.1:

Protect
Habitat

MRc2:Const. Waste

Mgmt.

EQc3: Const. IAQ ,

 

 

 

- SSc4.3: Alternative
transportation (low emitting &
fuel-efficient vehicles)

SSc8: Light Pollution Reduction

- EAp2: Min. Energy Performance
EAclz Optimize Energy
Performance

EAc2: On-site Renewable Energy
EAcS: Measurement &

- EAp1 & c3: Commissioning
0 ID: Innovation & Design
Site Dev.;
or Restore

 

Mgmt. Verification
- Ech: Outdoor Air Monitoring
- EQc4.1: Low Emitting Materials
- EQc6.1: Controllability of
Systems; Lighting
- EQc8.1: Day Lighting
Figure 2.3: Impact of LEED-NC on Electrical Contractors (Syal et al. 2009)

6 Company Philosophy

9 Company Work Scope/ Services

9 Company Structure and/or Key persons

0 Company’s Operations

0 Company’s Experience

6 Past Projects

0 Company Expectation/Future

26

 

Beside these common elements, Hanna (2008) demonstrated the importance of the
pre-construction planning process. “Better planning” improves contractors’ efficiency
and increases their profitability consequently. Syal (2009) also indentifies that project
planning is a significant portion of the project life cycle. The definition of the project
planning process given by Syal (2009) is “course/strategy of actions to achieve successful

execution of project.”

Project delivery methods have been demonstrated to make an effect on Green
Building projects (Swarup 2010, Sya12009). Swarup (2010) utilized 12 case studies with
three project delivery methodsuincluding design-bid-build, construction management at-
risk, and design-build—to identify the relationship between these methods and their

project performance.

Syal (2009) states that the right usage of project control methods assist completing
the project on time and under budget, and predicting the hidden risks of the project during

the construction period.
2.3.2 Green Features

Green features are mostly identified by related research, including Syal et al. (2007),
Riley (2007), Syal et al. (2009), Arend et al. (2009), and the USGBC (2010). For
example, the green education program, which provides knowledge about being
green/sustainable, is hiring a LEED® AP while involving itself in LEED projects, and has
had successful LEED project experiences. The detailed analysis and application of these

features is provided in the relevant chapter.

27

2.4 Summary

This chapter is the synthesis of the background work/research in sustainable design
and construction. Different literature was categorized in order to define the role of ECs
on LEED projects while focusing on the ID category. This reviewed literature forms the

basis of the research outputs presented in the subsequent chapters.

28

CHAPTER 3

ANALYSIS OF ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR’ S ROLE IN INNOVATION IN

DESIGN PROCESS
3.1 Overview

New sustainable technologies and strategies are constantly being introduced to the
building market and influencing building design. These strategies are used to improve the
building performance. Some can provide better building performance than the
requirements of existing LEED credits, while others have not been included in LEED
strategies. The ID category is established to award the action of using these strategies to

achieve better building performance.

Two credits are included in the ID category: Innovation in Design and LEED®
Accredited Professional (LEED® AP). In the LEED-NC v2.2, four points are available in
IDC 1 - Innovation in Design for “exceptional performance above the requirements set by
the LEED-NC and/or innovative performance in Green Building categories not
specifically addressed by this Rating System” (LEED 2007). The detailed credit

requirements are introduced in the following paragraphs.

Exemplary performance includes going above and beyond the requirements of
prerequisites or credits. In Chapter 2, Syal et al. (2009) has listed all the LEED-NC
credits related to ECs, shown as Figure 2.3. The author checked all these related credits in
the LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide, selected credits which have exemplary performance,
formed the table shown as Table 3.1, and highlighted with the same color that used in

Syal et al. (2009). For example, the Materials and Resources Credit 2 - Construction

29

Waste Management states that: “project teams may earn an ID point for exemplary
performance in Construction Waste Management when the percent of total waste diverted

is 95% or greater” (LEED 2007).

Table 3.1: Credits Related to ECs and Having Exemplary Performance

 

Sustainable Sites

 

Credit 4.3 Alternative Transportation: Low-Emission & Fuel- Efficient 1
Vehicles

Credit 5.1 Site Development: Protect or Restore Habitat

Energy and Atmosphere

Credit 1 Optimize Energy Performance 1-10

Credit 2 On-Site Renewable Energy 1-3

Materials and Resources

 

 

Credit 2 Construction Waste Management : Divert 50%, 75% from

Disposal

 

Indoor Environmental Quality
Credit 8 Daylight and Views: Daylight 95% of Spaces 1

 

Innovative performance contains those strategies not addressed by existing LEED
credits. The LEED-NC v2.2 Reference Guide accepts the applicable strategies which
should be proven/displayed as having “a comprehensive approach and have significant,
measurable environmental benefits”. The Reference Guide also provides two comparable
examples to explain the requirements. Simple signage in a building will not be considered
as a significant educational effort by itself. However, if it could be an interactive display
with a Website and video in a visitor’s center, then this strategy will be considered to

approach an appropriate level of effort for earning an innovation credit. (LEED 2007)

This chapter focuses on identifying the EC’s role and responsibility in the ID

Category of LEED-NC. The objective is achieved through the analysis of related Credit

30

Interpretation Rulings/Requests (CIRs). In addition, some examples of the research

outputs are shown in the later section.

3.2 Importance of Innovation in Design for Contractors and Electrical Contractors

As referred to in the literature review in the last chapter, Lane (2005), Riley (2007),

Syal et al. (2007), and Syal et a1. (2009) have presented that the ID category plays an

important role in the LEED-NC rating system and has a moderate impact on contractors.

Figure 3.1 shows the impact of the IDC 1 on EC3 (Syal et al. 2007, Syal et a1. 2009). In

some exemplary performance credits, contractors are required to provide “greater

involvement”, while in innovative performance credit, “early involvement” is expected.

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Figure 3.1: The Discussion Point of ID Category (Syal et al. 2007, Syal et al. 2009)

31

In the reference guide of LEED-NC V2.2 (LEED 2007), those innovation credits
which depend on the construction performance need to be submitted as a Construction
Phase Submittal. It requires documents and calculations that will be only available when
the project complete. Some innovation credits may require a contractor’s early

involvement.

3.3 Methodology

LEED-NC v2.2 requires that any specific point cannot be automatically achieved by
using the same or similar strategy of an innovative credit in a future project. Any

submittal of an innovation point needs to follow the format including (LEED 2007):
o A specific title—for the ID credit being pursued;
o Intent—a narrative statement of the credit purpose;

0 Credit requirements—a narrative statement that describe the credit

requirements;

0 A detailed description—to state the project’s “approach to achievement of the
credit”, including the “quantifiable environmental benefits of the credit
proposal”.

- Drawings—providing copies of drawings or exhibits to explain and
demonstrate the project’s approach.

Because the ID category does not have any specific requirements, it is hard to provide

execution strategies without an exemplary and/or innovative idea. In addition, there is a

32

lack of guidelines or suggestions for this category. Therefore, the author decided to study
the “past project experience”—Credit Interpretation Request/Ruling (CIR)—to analyze

the EC’s role and responsibility in the ID category.

3.3.1 Credit Interpretation Request/Ruling

During design strategies or implementatoins for the LEED-NC credits, some
questions/conflicts of projects may be solved. However, the existing Reference Guide
does not include such specific solutions of these questions/conflicts. To solve this issue,
the USGBC created the CIR process and each submitted CIR must include four parts:

Intent, Inquiry, Submittals, and Ruling.

CIR provides opportunities for project teams to communicate with the USGBC’s
expertise on these questions/conflicts before the final project submittals are completed
and submitted. The USGBC also provides the searching window for the CIR shown in
Figure 3.2
(http://www.usgbc.org/LEED/Credit/CIRMain.aspx?CMSPageID=1432&CategoryID=l 1
935 ). The user can search Cle by category, credit, key words, or date. Before the
LEED 2009 was launched, over one thousand CIRs had been posted and all of them have

been collected in the CIR database.

The USGBC also suggests that before the project teams submit their CIRs, the CIR
customers can self-evaluate their projects on whether they meet the intent, or they can
consult the LEED Reference Guide or search to see if the CIR has related/similar

inquiries.

33

 

 

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Figure 3.2: Search Window for Cle

The CIR rulings used to be formal decisions on the LEED requirements and set a
precedent for subsequent projects. After June 26, 2009, as a result of the separation of the
standards development and project certification responsibilities under the new LEED

certification model, each CIR will be applicable only to its own project.

In this research, the author collected all available ID CIRs related to ECs and
analyzed them. The methodology used in this research is similar to “content analysis”. In

the following sub-sections, the author summarized content analysis, and provides

34

examples for their usage area. The data collection and data analysis is also presented after

the following sections.

3.3.2 Content Analysis

Content Analysis is a methodology that makes inferences of the text through
analyzing the frequentness or relationship of verbal or nonverbal materials. Singleton and
Straits (2005) provide its basic idea as “to reduce the total content of a communication to

a set of categories that represent some characteristic of research interest.”

Content Analysis is a mixed quantitative and qualitative study methodology.
Palmquist (2010) suggests that the content analysis can be categorized into two types:
conceptual analysis and relational analysis. The former belongs to quantitative study and
the later is equal to qualitative study. Their names present their differences. The
conceptual analysis is relies more on numbering or the fi'equency of the content, while
the relationship analysis intends to find the relationship between the words or patterns by

coding the relationship or performing statistics.

For conceptual analysis, Palmquist (2010) develops eight steps to achieve the method
goal, including deciding the coded concepts, developing coding rules, dealing with the
“Irrelevant” information, coding, etc. A detailed explanation for each step of the
conceptual analysis is also developed by Palmquist. For a relational analysis, also called a

semantic analysis, eight steps were developed.

The content analysis is often used in a communication study. Two applications will

be shown below:

35

1. How often is often? (Hakel 1968)

In this study, Hakel aimed to find out the frequency of frequent words. The author
used 20 words to indicate “oftenness” from Simpson’s study (1944) and ask 100
university students to complete a questionnaire which require students to determine the
word’s meaning for them within 0-100. The result is similar to the one Simpson gained.
The author concluded that they were exceedingly stable about being exceedingly

imprecise.

2. A content analysis of Music Videos (Baxter et al. 1985)

This study analyzed a sample of 62 MTV music videos in 23 content categories. The
content categories were selected from literature review and each category was defined by
a short description and by a listing of possible actions or behaviors. The unit of analysis
was the individual 3 minutes music video. Twenty-one trained students completed the
coding process by viewing the video twice, stopping every 30 seconds and viewing it
again without sound. One of the research outputs is a table of “Frequencies of
actions/behaviors in seven leading music videos content categories”. It listed the category,

action/behavior, and the percentage of the action/behavior.

In this research, the author intents to provide suggestions/examples for ECs on ID
credits, through analyzing available data from the USGBC’s CIR database. By using

content analysis, the author is searching for strategies that may achieve ID credits which

36

include ECs’ input or can be provided/suggested by ECs. While determining the
“Approved” CIR strategies, the author also collected and analyzed the “Denied” and
“Undecided” CIRs, to provide ECs all-sided information about ID credits strategies.

Detailed data collection and analysis steps are presented in the following section.

3.4 Data Collection

This section summarizes the procedure of the data collection. Because of the special
requirements of the ID category and the lack of related research and/or case studies, data

collection is one of the most significant steps of the research.

The USGBC has published one document about ID which summarized the ID credits
submitted by projects before the summer of 2007 for innovative idea brainstorming,
available via http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=3569 (U SGBC 2009).
Although this catalog is a very good source for brainstorming innovative ideas and every
case has been categorized among CIR/ID, Category, Rating System, Credit Title,
Approved/Denied, and Credit Description, some detailed information may not included in
this catalog. In additional, this catalog only contains submitted ID credits until the
summer of 2007. Compared to this catalog, the newest CIR was updated in June 2009.
After comprehensively consider the synthesis and the usability of the expected research
data, the author decided to use the CIR as the main research data which has been

introduced in 3.3.1.

The following steps are developed to collect qualified data which is Cle related to

ECs:

37

A. Once it was decided upon to use CIRs as the data of this research, the author
searched and collected all Cle of the ID category in every LEED rating system
throughout the webpage shown in Figure 3.2. This step completed the initial data

collection. There are more than 300 Cle in this ID category.

B. Decided the key words/phases for coding based on the research needs and the
understanding of electrical contractors’ work scope on LEED projects from literature
review and the teachings of experts in the electrical field. Considering that mechanical
work often requires the assistance of electrical workers, in order to achieve a
comprehensive understanding of ECs’ role in the ID category, any words/phases related

to electrical and mechanical work will be coded.

C. Reviewed all the collected Cle and coded key words as decided in the last steps.
After the first review, 67 Cle were selected which related to ECs. For example: the
installation of a PV system, the usage of energy-saving materials, and the installation of
battery charging stations. While reviewing the CIRs, the author also highlighted
exemplary performance, innovative performance, and IDc 2 LEED® AP, and separated

these into selected CIRs.

D. Reviewed selected Cle in detail. In this round, the CIRs that were only related to
mechanical work were eliminated. Some CIRs explained 3 projects’ intent and work area
very clearly, while others with unclear work scopes clarified the work area via a

discussion with experienced industry professionals.

Because of the previous research, Syal et al.2007 counted the educational program as

one of the contractors-related area; the author also included the educational program as

38

one of the possible ECs‘related area and separated it as one category to analyze in the

next section.

After the detailed reviewing of the selected CIRs, only 52 Cle out of the initial more

than 300 Cle were selected as the final data to be analyzed in the next steps.

3.5 Data Analysis and Outputs

This section summarizes the data analysis process and the research outputs from the
analysis. It includes identifying the credits related to ECs as having exemplary
performance, analyzing the CIRs’ ruling, and developing the format for representing the

related CIRs.

3.5.1 Approved/Denied/Undecided CIR’s Related to the ID Credit

Every submitted CIR will receive a response from the USGBC called a ruling.
Rulings are provided by the USGBC’s staff and its COOperated agents of expertise. For
every CIR, these professionals offer their professional opinions and suggestions based on
the statement/description of the CIR. Their responses can be categorized into three types:

Approved, Denied and Undecided.

In the “Approved” category, the response is positive. For example, the ruling
response enounced that the strategy which was used in the project is eligible to achieve
an ID credit. Another example of the ruling, which stated that the new strategy used in
the project will be approved, is that the necessary information is provided, such as a

calculation table.

39

In the “Denied” category, the CIR usually received a negative response. Some
strategies in CIR cases were directly denied by the USGBC/GBCI. In most CIRs, they
provide the reason why they rejected the innovative idea. The “Undecided” category only
includes CIRs with neutral comments or responses providing general

requirements/rulings.

Under “Approved”, “Denied” and “Undecided” Categories, CIRs are categorized into
two subcategories: Exemplary Performance and Innovative Performance based on their
content of requesting. Examples under this category are shown with short introductions in

the following sub-section.

3.5.2 Outputs

In this sub-section, the research outputs are summarized and examples are shown,

including the slide for selected CIRs and a final table checklist of all the CIRs.

The slide format has been shown in Chapter 1 as Figurel .2. Among the selected 52
CIRs, there are 19 CIRs in the “Approved” category, 26 CIRs in the “Denied” category,
and the rest belongs to the “Undecided” category. In the following part, several example
slides are shown in this chapter; the others are shown in Appendix A. The enclosed slides
represent examples from the Approved, Denied and Undecided categories. These are also

categorized by different colors:

Approved: Black _

Denied: Gray [ I .. in“. I i I

 

 

 

Undecided: White I I

 

40

Table 3.2 Enclosed Example Slides

 

 

Category CIR Related
Figure
Approved — 1. The LEED-NC project used a credit of LEED- Existing Figure 3.3

Innovative Building which related to ECs.
2. A successful example of providing an educational program. Figure 3.4

 

 

 

Approved - 1. A project would like to approach an innovation credit on Figure 3.5
Exemplary exemplary performance of EAc1- Optimize Energy

Performance.
Denied - 1. A rejected example which applied an innovation credit Figure 3.6

Innovative through using environmental friendly, non-hazardous
transformer oil.

2. An unsuccessful educational program about subcontractor Figure 3.7
training.
Denied - 1. The strategy used in the project should count under EAc1. Figure 3.8
Innovative
Undecided 1. This project planned to use an Energy Star Appliances- Plug Figure 3.9
- Innovative load efficiency to achieve an innovation credit.
Undecided 1. This project would approach the exemplary performance Figure 3.10
— Exemplary under EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy by using threshold

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When analyzing the selected CIRs, the author found that the ECs’ work area can be
categorized as “Product and Components”, “Electrical Services/Procurement”,
“Commissioning”, “Educational Program”, and “Others”. Although the author did not
categorize the educational program as one category in the data analysis process, it is still

one of the major aspects that may impact ECs’ work scope.

Among the CIRs related to ECs in the “Approved” category, most of them require
ECs to provide electrical services, and about half of them need ECs’ input on “Product
and Components” or “Commissioning”. Educational program, as one of the popular

strategy to achieve an innovation credit, also may require ECs’ input.

Identifying the reasons for Denied CIRs, the author summarizes the following :

41

o The strategy has already been counted in existing credits;
0 The project cannot demonstrate the energy efficiency/human health impact of
the proposed strategy ;
o The strategy may lead to a result contrary to LEED credits’ intent.
At the end of this chapter, a table checklist is provided including all the selected CIRs
within the categories “Product and Components” (PC), “Electrical Services/Procurement”

(ES/P), “Commissioning” (Cx), “Educational Program” (EP), and “Others” (Table 3.3).

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (6/2-1/2005)

 

0 Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Reduced Mercury in Light Bulbs
0 Project

The project proposes to use a credit from LEED-EB as an innovation credit in
LEED-NC. This credit in LEED-EB is - “MRc6: Additional Toxic Material
Source Reduction: Reduced Mercury in Light Bulbs”.

0 EC Related Areas
1. Procurement of reduced mercury light bulbs
2. Use electrical related credits from other LEED ratings
0 Ruling
Such requests are considered on a case by case basis but this LEED-EB credit
can be used for an innovation credit in LEED-NC.

Figure 3.3: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance

 

 

 

42

 

 

LEED-NC 2.18.2.0 (7/6/2006)

 

° Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Educational Outreach Program - Car Wash and Maintenance Facility
- Project
A major metropolitan transit agency proposes to hold an educational outreach
program for a Car Wash and Maintenance Facility project. This program
includes distributing the Agency’s “Going Green ” brochure, providing website
animation of the Car Washer showing the captured/recycled rain water feature,
and available educational flyers in the building.
0 EC Related Area
1. Procurement, installation and commissioning of electrical related services of
the car wash system
2. Providing electrical related information to the education program
0 Ruling
The education and outreach program is eligible for an innovation credit.

Figure 3.4: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance

 

 

 

 

0 Title and Credit
Exemplary Performance
EAcl Optimize Energy Performance
0 Project
This project proposes to shift over 40% of the peak cooling load to off-peak
generation through the utilization of a Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system.
0 EC Related Area
Providing electrical services to the TES system
0 Ruling
The TES system has been established as an acceptable strategy, and it
contributes to LEED-NC EAcl. If the project team can demonstrate few
benefits related to percentage of total building energy use, less air emission and

additional environmental benefit beyond EAcl , it can qualify for innovation
credit.

Figure 3.5: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance

 

43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"LEED-”NC 2.1&I2.0 (2/2/2006)

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Environmentally-Friendly, Non-Hazardous Transformer Oil
Project

This project proposes to use an environmentally-fliendly, non-hazardous
transformer oil for the building’s transformer.

EC Related Area
1. Procurement of transformer that can use special oil
2. Specifications of the oil as environmentally friendly
3. Special maintenance aspects
Ruling
This strategy does not qualify as innovation credits. The transformer oil can
contribute to MRc6, Rapidly Renewable Materials credit.

Figure 3.6: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 020206

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (5/30/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Innovative Energy Export - Centralized Cooling System
Project
This project proposes to use a central chilled water and heating hot water
plant for supplying multiple surrounding buildings. It will lead to at least 15%

lower electric demand of buildings than independent cooling systems, conserve
green space and construction materials, and reduce energy consumption.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of electrical services
Ruling
This strategy does not constitute an innovation credit, because it may gain
points under EAcl.

Figure 3.7: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 053003

 

44

 

 

 

 

 

 

.LEED-NC 2.1&2.0(3/2/2004) ‘

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Subcontractor Training Program
Project

This project proposes to conduct a subcontractor training program. This
program will include an orientation session and bi-monthly workshops to
educate the labor force about LEED and the importance of sustainable
construction practices.
EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information and participating the program
Ruling

This program will not qualify for an innovation credit. Educating the

subcontractors working on a LEED project, team education and integrated
design are standard for a LEED project.

Figure 3.8: Denied Educational CIR within Innovative Performance

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.2 (8/16/2002)

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Energy Star Appliances - Plug Load Efficiency
Project

This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit by increasing plug load
efficiency of major household appliances which are labeled by Energy Star.
This includes refrigerators, dishwashers and clothes washers, to further reduce
total energy consumption beyond base building efliciency measures and EAcl
(Optimize Energy Performance).

EC Related Area

Installation and commissioning of Energy Star Appliance and their plug load
monitoring

Ruling

Two concerns: (1) Demonstrate the energy efficiency impact of providing
Energy Star appliances. (2) Demonstrate that the longevity of the plugs measure
is comparable to the life of the building.

(Resubmission of Denied CIR of 6/21/2002 — Provided in Denied slides)

Figure 3.9: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance

 

45

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-CS 2.0 (5/10/2007)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Exemplary Performance

EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy - Threshold
Project

This project is if LEED-CS recognize an exemplary performance for EAcZ,
and if so, what is the threshold.

EC Related Area
Providing, installation and commissioning of on-site renewable energy systems
Ruling

LEED-CS V2.0 EAc2 requires: projects that demonstrate 5% on-site
renewable energy production as a percentage of the building annual energy cost
will be considered for one additional point under the Innovation in Design
category.

Figure 3.10: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance

 

 

Table 3.3A: ID Credits Checklist for Electrical Contractors (ECs) - Approved

 

m Category PC ES/P Cx ’ EP

 

A. 1 Approved ID Credits — Innovative Performance

’ Others

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Reduced Mercury in Light Bulbs v

2. Flexible Building Systems v v

3. Energy Optimization and Electrical Load Control v

4. Water Treatment v v

5. Life Cycle Analysis/Database Development v

6. Environmentally Preferred Workstations v v v

7. Laboratory Safety-Fume Hood Commissioning v v v

8. Alternative Transportation-Hybrid Vehicle v v v
Reimbursement Program

9. Green Building Educational Component v

10. Educational Outreach Program v

11. Educational Outreach Program - Car Wash and v v v

Maintenance Facility
12. Educational Program v
13. Educational Program-The Lutron Quantum System v v v

 

 

 

 

 

 

46

 

Table 3.3A Continued

A. 2 Approved 10 Credits — Exemplary Performance

 

 

 

 

 

14. EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy - Rooftop Photo- v v
Voltaic(PV) Array

15. EAc1 Optimize Energy Performance v

16. SSc4.3: Alternative Fuel Vehicles v v v

17. SSc4.3: Alternative Fuel Vehicles V v

18. Energy Use Reduction-EAcl Optimize Energy v v v

Performance and High Renewable Energy Use-EAcZ
On-Site Renewable Energy
19. District Energy System-Chilled Water System-EAcl v \I v
Optimize Energy Performance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 3.33: ID Credits Checklist for Electrical Contractors (ECs) - Denied and Undecided

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Category PC ES/ P Cx EP Others
Title
B. 1 Denied ID Credits - Innovative Performance
1. 12kV Photo-Voltaic(PV) System-To Loop Existing v v v
Buildings
2. Efficient Network Components In Data Center v \I v
3. Activated Carbon Filters for Low—Cost Demand Control v v v
Ventilation and Energy Efficiency
4. Environmentally-Friendly, Non-Hazardous Transformer v v v
Oil
5. Low-Cost HVAC for Green Building v v v
6. Laboratory Controls Testing v v
7. Installation and Commissioning of Electrical V v
Components
8. Load, System Size and Energy Conservation Studies v
9. Natural Light Sensors and Dimmers \I v v
10. LED Signage and Feature Lighting v v v
11. Full Spectrum Lighting v v v
12. Exterior Lighting Energy Reduction v v v
13. Innovative Energy Export-Centralized Cooling System v v
14. Advanced HVAC Equipment v v
15. Photo-Voltaic(PV) Technology v v v
16. Solar Light Fixtures \I v v
17. Linking Egress Lighting with Alarm System v v

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

47

Table 3.38 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18. Interlocked Natural Ventilation and Mechanical v v
Systems
19. Energy Star Appliances v v
20. Underground Parking Facility-Lighting v v v
21. Peak Demand Limitation \I v
22. Limited Use of Personal Electronic v
23. Occupancy Sensors on Task Lights v v
24. Subcontractor Training Program v
25. Educational Program-Working Well Program (WWP) v
8. 2 Denied ID Credits — Exemplary Performance
26. Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) Shield I v I v I v I I
C. 1 Undecided ID Credits - Innovative Performance
1. “G reen” Trailers v
2. CNG Vehicles for Employees v v
3. Energy Star Appliances-Plug Load Efficiency v v
4. Tenant Improvement Manual v
5. Green Building Education Program v
6. Case Study of Green Building v
C. 2 Undecided ID Credits - Exemplary Performance
7. EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy-Threshold I I \I I v I If

 

3.6 Verification and Closing

All the research outputs have been delivered to the Industry Task Focus for review.
The Industry Task Focus is formed by industry experts and professionals in electrical
construction. Their feedback is very useful for this research, especially the sections
focusing on justifying the ECs’ work scope. The examples and checklist table shown in

this chapter are revised with the feedback and suggestions from the Industry Task Focus.

This chapter summarizes the analysis process of EC’s role in the ID category of
LEED-NC projects. It includes the methodology statement, data collection, data analysis,

and research output. The author collected Cle in the ID category which related to ECs

48

from the USGBC to analyze. The research outputs intend to provide suggestions and a

reference to assist ECs becoming a “Value-Added” partner of a LEED project team.

49

CHAPTER 4

BUSINESS PROPOSAL/CAPABILITY STATEMENT/STATEMENT OF

QUALIFICATIONS

4.1 Overview

This chapter mainly introduces the importance of a business proposal/capability
statement/statement of qualifications, and the development of a capability statement for
ECs on LEED projects. The author developed it with two parts: atypical capability

statement for contractors, and an additional capability for Green/LEED projects.

In the following sections and sub-sections, the author will concisely present the
standard sections of a typical capability statement—which would mostly be included in a
contractor’s capability statement—and majorly exhibit the additional “Green” capability

statement.

4.1.1 Importance of a Capability Statement

With the rapid development of the Green Building movement, LEED/Green
Buildings are promoted in the construction industry, especially for new construction. To
achieve greater building performance and sustainable benefits, such as saving energy and
reducing lighting pollution, all the project teams are looking for team
partners/cooperators who have the capability to manage LEED projects and/or play as a

“Value-Added” member.

50

As the need statement in Chapter 1 and the related summary of the literature review
in Chapter 2 suggests, a proper capability statement could assist a contractor presenting
his or her expert communication skills, proper understanding of the project, and most
importantly, the capability of performing excellent. It is also the researcher’s intent of
developing a capability statement for ECs, especially when they need an easy-to-use

reference manual to develop their own bid/proposal for LEED projects.

In this research, the author used a middle—size electrical company—XYZ—as the
example to develop the capability statement. To stand on the side as an electrical
contractor, and based on the understanding of the role of GC/CM and ECs on LEED
projects that were available in previous related research, the author developed the

example capability statement shown below.

4.2 Typical Capability Statement for Contractors

This section summarizes the typical part of the capability statement. Based on the
literature review in Chapter 2 and a few professionals’ experience, the following sectors
are developed to present the basic information and their typical work scope. They are

introduced below:
0 Company Overview
0 Management and Organization
0 Project Preconstruction (PC) Department

0 Project Operations and Controlling (0C) Department

51

0 Administration and Finance (AF) Department

0 Past Project Experience

4.2.1 Company Overview

This sector introduces the company’s history, mission, goals and awards,

certifications, and licenses.

XYZ Electrical Company is an electrical construction and design-build company
located in Anytown, Michigan. XYZ has provided various aspects of general electrical
contracting and communication services in the Great Lakes Region since 1999. XYZ’s
projects are typically in the $25 ,OOO-SIO million range, and XYZ has developed a strong
niche in the public, private, and institutional building sector in the competitive bid and

the negotiated project delivery systems.

The mission of XYZ is to build on their reputation for excellence in work
performance and in serving local communities, providing environmental stewardship—
which has been added recently—and providing employees with a challenging, secure,
and safe environment in which to achieve personal career goals. In addition, to measure
their performance, the company built goals for Preconstruction Excellence, Project

Controls, Safety, Zero Defects, Project Closeout, and Sustainability.

XYZ has received several awards and honors for its projects and industry leadership.
These awards and honors speak for the company’s high level of professional commitment.

Some of the key achievements are listed in the capability statement.

52

4.2.2 Management and Organization

This sector provides the organization structure, qualification of key personnel, and
employee training programs. There are around 35 employees of XY Z, and 12 of them
each have more than 25 years of work experience. The company’s organization structure

is also provided in the business proposal/capability statement. (Figure 4.1)

To explain XYZ’s organization structure, a brief introduction for each department is
provided in this sector, including the department’s role and responsibility, its work
performance, and the clients’ feedback. The company’s key persons, including the
president and vice president for each department, are introduced by their educational
background, professional experience in the construction industry, and the areas that they

are expert in.

In additional, XYZ has a strong focus on training programs for its employees. The
company’s “Skill” and “Teamwork” training programs are presented as a part of the
management organization sector, containing electrical technical training, safety training,

teamwork activities, etc.

4.2.3 Project Preconstruction Department

XYZ understands the importance of the preconstruction activities via the work
experience and related research. In the introduction of the Preconstruction (PC)

department, the key features and experienced project delivery methods are included.

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To present XYZ’s preconstruction capability, the following key features of this
department are introduced: Contract and Documentation, Design, Estimating, and
Scheduling. The employees who work within these positions are introduced. They are
responsible and experienced. With their hard work and assistance of the preconstruction

work, the PC department received many high achievements.

The PC department also is in charge of the development of XYZ’s Information
Transfer Database, which is used for the company’s internal Communication. In addition,
the meeting during preconstruction contains three major meetings and may influence on
EC5’ work. They include the Pre-job Planning Meeting, the Subcontractors Coordination

Meeting, and the Preconstruction Conference.

For the project delivery system, the sample capability statement contains XYZ’s
experience within the areas of General Contractor (GC), Construction Management at
Risk (CMAR), Construction Management as Agency (CMAA), and Design Build (D/B).
These different project delivery methods make different impacts on projects. XYZ not
only has plenty of experience with working as an electrical subcontractor, but it also has
worked as a GC/CM in some projects which were major electrical work. Using the proper

methods will bring the highest benefit for the clients and the company itself.

These features of XYZ’s PC department present the company’s comprehensive
organization during the preconstruction process and its deep understanding of the

importance of preconstruction.

55

4.2.4 Project Operations and Controlling Department

Mainly functioning as an electrical subcontractor, XYZ considers work performance
as one of the most important elements for being an excellent EC. Therefore, XY Z is
especially concerned with the Operations and Controlling (0C) department’s work
performance and its employee’s training. The OC department’s key features are involved
project managers, superintendents, licensed electricians, and equipment managers. To
maintain such high-quality work performance, XYZ is extremely strict about its technical
training, as well as its workers’ standards and expectations. Depending on the project size,

XYZ assigns a project manager or a superintendent to manage and control the project.

XYZ has three project managers, and all have LEED® AP designation. They are
proficient in various aspects of project management and field operations in electrical
construction, and have an average of 16 years of experience. All three represent different
strengths and work as a team to solve problems with each other. Four superintendents in
KY Z are in the LEED training program preparing to take their LEED® Green
Associate/LEED® AP exam in the near future. They have an average of 14 years of
construction experience. XY Z has five licensed electricians with about 5 to 15 years of
electrical industry experience. They are familiar with the electrical work process and can
serve as project foreman. These employees’ commitment to XYZ Company maintains

high level of work performance.

XYZ is also good at using various project controlling methods to manage the
project’s process during construction. These methods include resource leveling, no-cost
and least-cost time expedition, S-Curve analysis based on labor/cost, and cash flow

analysis. These methods not only help project managers and superintendents to control

56

the project on—site, but they also provide real project data for the PC department to build
XYZ’s own database, help the AF department to establish an annual financial report
and/or budget, and assist the company’s senior mangers in making decisions—such as the

company’s working direction and the improvement of its work scope and performance.

4.2.5 Administration and Finance Department

XYZ’s Administration and Finance (AF) department has three main sections:
Information Technology (IT), Finance, and Office Administration. XYZ’s IT technician
is responsible for all of XYZ’s software, computers and electronic equipment, and other
accessories. Two major roles of the Finance section are Accounting and Payroll. Office

Administration is mainly in charge of the company’s support staff and human resources.

4.2.6 Past Project Experience

The past projects experience is the indispensable standard sector in a typical
capability statement. For XYZ, in its 10 years of existence as a company, it has
successfully completed more than 100 projects ranging in price from $25,000 to $10
million. XYZ’s satisfied customers are as diverse as the projects it has completed. These
include the Federal Government, State governments (in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana,
Wisconsin and Illinois), cities and townships, and large-, medium-, and small-sized
corporate owners. Testimonies and letters of support from its various satisfied clients are

available from the PC department vice president.

57

The above brief presents XY Z as a typical electrical company. However, to approach
Green/LEED projects, XYZ needs an extra statement about its Green/LEED capabilities
that can assist it in becoming a “Value-Added” partner of any Green/LEED project team.
The following section is developed to present the possible and necessary Green/LEED
sectors for an electrical company that plans to involve itself in the Green Building

Movement.

4.3 Additional Capabilities for Green Project

To be a “Value-Added” member of the LEED-NC project team requires the
understanding of the LEED-NC rating system and the company’s involvement and
commitment to “Being Green/ Sustainable”. In this section, the researcher developed the
following sectors to assist ECs present their capability of building Green. A detailed

statement for each sector will also be provided under each sub-section.

4.3.1 LEED Department and LEED® AP

To establish an independent LEED department, lead by a LEED® AP, is a strong
illustration that the company is pursuing Green/LEED building. To introduce the LEED
department and the LEED® APs in the company, the statement could be presented like

the following paragraphs:

In order to bid/negotiate and manage LEED projects successfully, and to illustrate our
company’s commitment to sustainability, we have added a LEED department to our

company’s organization (Figure 4.2). EEE, LEED® AP is the vice president in charge of

58

this new department. This department provides support and advice to other departments
about LEED related issues. It is made up of two sections: the General LEED section and

the Commissioning section.

The General LEED section is headed by a LEED® AP, whose major responsibility is
to provide support to the PC and OC departments in marketing and the
bidding/negotiating of LEED projects. This support also extends to provide input in
finalizing estimates, schedules, and the contractual language. Their role also includes the
coordination of LEED documentation of the projects, assisting with green material
procurement, and providing electrical-related ideas to propose innovation credits. The
commissioning section provides support to the OC department during all commissioning
processes. This section also provides support to the PC department for XYZ’s new

initiative towards pursuing retro-commissioning projects in the existing buildings sector.

The LEED department is also in charge of training programs about Green Building and
LEED for all our employees. These training programs are described in detail in the next
section as one of our company’s advantages/strengths. At XYZ, eight of our employees
have already achieved LEED® AP designation. These employees are key professionals
within our company’s transition towards more LEED projects. XY Z encourages its
employees to expand their understanding of LEED projects and provides incentives for
all its employees to attain LEED Green Associate/LEED® AP designation. Currently,
our remaining PC department staff and our superintendents are in the process of attaining
their LEED designation. This department has also developed a comprehensive manual

with details of our completed and ongoing LEED projects.

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The introduction of the LEED/Green department of the company would be one of the
most attractive sections of a capability statement for a LEED project. In addition, the
LEED/Green department usually also works as the department to promote the green

concepts/events/actions into the company.

4.3.2 “Green” Training Program

To promote the Green Building movement and help employees to know and learn
about it, the “Green” training program would a good way to start up. The sample

introduction of the Green training program is provided below:

The “Green” training program consists of an introduction to the Green Building
design, LEED requirements, Green Associate/LEED® AP training, green
materials/products, and construction management aspects of LEED projects. These
training programs are developed by our LEED department’s vice president with help
from our consultants m. Each pro gram is based on well-designed training
materials supplemented with case study scenarios. The training manuals are
developed based on research reports from ELECTRI Intemational’s work with
university research teams, such as Michigan State University’s Sustainable
Construction Management Research Group. XY Z completely covers the cost for its
employees to prepare for the LEED Green Associate/LEED® AP exams and provides

incentives for attaining these designations.

61

4.3.3 LEED Department and Company’s Comprehensive Capability for LEED-NC

Projects

In a capability statement, the company can describe in detail its understanding of its

role within a LEED project, the sample statement is showed below:

As described earlier, XYZ recently added a LEED department to its organization
structure. This addition was established to support our extended mission of providing
environmental stewardship by getting involved in Green Building projects, and at the
same time, implement sustainability in our company operations. We have made a
substantial investment in developing comprehensive capability related to LEED
projects. The following sections summarize our understanding related to LEED
requirements, and demonstrate our ability to become a preferred and “Value-Added”
partner within a LEED project team. We believe that we are among the leaders in the

electrical contracting industry in this field.

The following sub-parts are developed based on the related research. According to
the different needs and focus of companies, when ECs develop their own business
proposal/capability statement, they can present their own understanding of the
following sub-parts instead of stating them as part of the standard research language.
For subparts A, B, and C, the content has been discussed and summarized in Chapter
2, or can be represented in related research (Syal et al. 2007 and Syal et al. 2009). For
sub-part D, the related study can be referenced to in Chapter 3: Analysis of Electrical
Contractor’s Role in Innovation in Design Process. The language for the capability

statement can be referenced in the following sample:

62

A. Overall Understanding of LEED-NC Rating System

XYZ has worked hard in the past few years to understand the importance and
requirements of LEED projects. We understand that LEED is one of the leading
Green Building rating systems and serves as a third-party certification program.
LEED has several rating systems that focus on different project categories: New
Construction (NC), Existing Buildings (EB), Operation & Maintenance (0&M),
Commercial Interiors (CI), Core & Shell (CS), Schools, Retail, Healthcare, Homes,
and Neighborhood Development. XYZ’s LEED projects are registered under LEED-
NC V2.2. This rating system awards credits under six categories: Sustainable Sites
(SS), Water Efficiency (WE), Energy and Atmosphere (EA), Material and Resources
(MR), Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ) and Innovation in Design Process (ID).
LEED-NC has recently released the 2009 version in which every category has
undergone some changes in its credits and a new category of Regional Priority was

added (U SGBC 2009).

Although the owner and the design team have the initial roles in pursuing LEED
projects, contractors can play greater roles if they are familiar with the LEED
requirements and understand the impact of these credits on overall construction
operations. Figure 2.2 shows our understanding of LEED-NC projects’ impact on
general contractors and construction managers. In this figure, various LEED-NC

credits were divided into three categories: Major, Moderate, and Minimal/Some.
B. Electrical-Related LEED—NC Credits and Requirements

XYZ’s LEED department has developed a deeper understanding of the impact of
LEED credits on electrical contracting work. We have worked closely with university

63

research groups to develop various formats and checklists in this regard and have
incorporated them as part of our training program. We understand that electrical
contractors (ECs) can have an impact on credits in the “Site-Practices” and
“Products” aspects. In addition, ECs can provide “Value-Added” opportunities in
project commissioning and Innovation in Design (ID) categories. Figure 2.3 shows
credits listed under each aspect. In our training materials, these LEED prerequisites
and credits are analyzed for their specific impact in preconstruction and during

construction.

A summary of the impact of the electrical-related LEED credits and detailed
examples of credits from the “Site-Practices” and “Products” categories are provided
as part of the training materials. When XY Z works on LEED projects, the credit
checklist can provide a clear guideline to us on identifying our roles in those projects.
It also assists our PC, 0C, and LEED departments in completing their LEED

documentation smoothly.
C. “Value-Added” Opportunity—Commissioning

We understand that ECs play an important role in the whole commissioning
process. Our LEED department has determined that commissioning and ID are two
categories where we can provide critical input to the LEED project teams. Our
understanding of these two critical categories demonstrates our unique strength to
navigate LEED projects successfully, and thus become a preferred and “Value-
Added” partner of the project teams. Therefore, we offer one specialist who manages

all the commissioning documents and the commissioning processes.

64

Commissioning is defined as the “process of verifying and documenting that the
facility and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested,
operated, and maintained to meet the owner’s project requirements” (LEED 2007). It
is recognized as a “Value-Added” opportunity for electrical contractors’ participation
in LEED projects. This quality assurance process aims at delivering a project that
meets the owner’s requirements through an integrated process that spans across

planning, design, construction, and occupancy (ASHRAE 2005).

LEED addresses commissioning at two levels (LEED 2007): firndamental
commissioning and enhanced commissioning. As per LEED requirements, XYZ’s
LEED department understands the scope of the commissioning systems and the
requirements for both levels throughout project phases, including the responsibilities
of ECs and other main parties for completing such activities. As an electrical
contractor, XYZ is generally responsible for procuring, installing, and testing
electrical equipment and systems. Commissioning has an impact on the PC and 0C
departments during these three phases of the project: Flaming and Design,

Construction, and Occupancy.
D. “Value-Added” Opportunity—Innovation in Design (ID) Credits

The ECs should understand that the purpose of the ID category is to “recognize
projects for innovative building features and sustainable building knowledge” (LEED
2007). It is based on two aspects: Exemplary Performance and Innovative

Performance.

We believe that XY Z should be proactive and ready to assist the project team with
ideas for innovation credits related to our scope of work. This will support our efforts

65

to become a preferred “Value-Added” partner of a LEED project team. XYZ’s LEED
department has analyzed all prior innovative credits related to electrical work that
have been submitted to the USGBC and has developed a thorough understanding of
those innovation ideas. Tables 3.2 A & B summarize the ideas that were either
approved or denied by the USGBC; detailed examples of the credits from
“Approved” and “Denied” categories are also provided in Chapter 3 (Figures 3.4-
3.11). This understanding can enable XY Z to work with owners, designers, and

GCs/CMs in proposing and achieving additional LEED credits.

Other detail analysis of ECs’ roles in the ID category of LEED-NC projects is
available in Chapter 3: Analysis of Electrical Contractor’s Role in Innovation in

Design Process.

4.3.4 LEED Project Experience

The summary of the company’s past/present LEED project experience is another

strong proof of their work performance and Green commitment. The sample XY Z

Company that has been developed by the researcher has the following statement of its

LEED Project Experience, including a sample project introduction:

Our company has been involved in LEED projects since 2007. We have completed

one LEED Gold project, and one LEED Silver project is under construction. From these

projects, we have experienced the differences between traditional and LEED projects. In

2007-08, we provided, installed, and commissioned the electrical and communications

systems on the ****** project in Anytown, Michigan, which achieved the LEED Gold

66

Certification. During 2008-09, we supplied, installed, and commissioned electrical,
heating, and communication equipments for the *** building in Wheaton, Illinois that is
registered for LEED®-NC Silver certification. In addition, we are currently in the design

phase of our new company office building which is proposed to be a LEED-NC Platinum

certified building.

As indicated in the earlier sections, we are working diligently to develop expertise in
Green Buildings, and are learning how to become a sought after and “Value-Added”
partner in the LEED project teams. It is the aim of our company that in the next five years,

more than 50% of all our projects will be LEED projects.
The following paragraph is a simple statement of past LEED project:

*** Building located in Anytown, MI, is our very successful LEED project. This
project is a commercial building and is LEED®-NC Gold certified. Using the CM at
Risk delivery method, this project was selected as one of the case study projects by

the USGBC and is profiled on their website. The project’s owner was *** and the CM
was ****.

Since the key features related to our work scope include the installation of the
electrical charging stations in the building’s parking garage (achieved SSc4.3),the

Fundamental and Enhanced Commissioning process (achieved EAp1 and EAc3), the

lighting system that was part of the efforts to reduce the total energy used (achieved

EQ6.1).

The overview of the project is provided below:

67

Table 4.1: Sample LEED Project

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project Name ****

Location Anytown, MI

LEED' Certification LEED°—NC Gold

Award Safety Award

Area 84,000 sq. ft.

Cost 5"" / within budget

Time **"‘* / On time

Story Three

Owner ****

XYZ’s Role and Work Scope As electrical subcontractor, work include general

electrical and communication systems

 

Special Technology Usage

Use the newest technical on lighting sensors, etc.

 

References

1. From owner

 

2. From GC/CM

 

 

3. From USGBC

 

 

 

Figure 4.3: Sample LEED Project

68

 

4.3.5 Company’s Corporate Commitment to Sustainability

The last Green/LEED element that was developed to present ECs as “Value-Added”
members is the company’s commitment to Sustainability/Being Green. The author
developed the following statement to display XY Z and its employees’
Green/Sustainability commitment. It includes the company’s pursuit of its own LEED
building,its encouraged incentive programs for “Being Green”, and the ending of the

capability statement:

XYZ is not only building green for others, we also promote green for oUrselves.
We are developing many green strategies to improve our employees’ working
environment and promoting their personal commitment to “Be Green”. Some of these

include:

A. Own Building: Our company’s proposed office building will be a LEED-NC
Platinum building located at *****. We are currently involved in the design of the
building. This building will not only show our commitment to LEED buildings,

but will also provide our employees with a better and healthy work environment.

B. Recycling Program: Our recycling program is one of the key green programs that
we had instituted in our company recently. Initially, we started this program with
recycling paper and a few office accessories, but it subsequently grew to become
an award-wining recycling program in our county. The program is saving the
company money, but more importantly, it helps to promote a company-wide green

mindset.

69

C. Incentive Program for Alternative Transportation: This program was suggested by
an employee while he was in the LEED training program. This incentive program
was developed based on the requirement of LEED-NC “Sustainable Site (SS)
credit 4.3: Alternative Transportation: Low Emitting & Fuel Efficient Vehicles”.
As part of this program, we provide interest free loans to our employees who want
to buy hybrid vehicles or we reimburse half the expenses for those who commute

by public transportation.

In addition to the above-noted “Green” programs, as described earlier, XYZ has a
strong training and incentive program in place for our employees to get LEED Green
Associate/LEED® AP designation. Our goal is to have over 50% of our employees
attain LEED designation within next three years. Our employee feedback towards
developing LEED project expertise has been very positive. They have become
passionate about our programs and are willing to learn more. They want to promote a

green work environment for themselves and others.

We hope that this Capability Statement illustrates our record of completing
successful projects along with our commitment to LEED projects. Based on our track
record and plans to excel in LEED projects, we believe that we are ideally suited for

your project. We look forward to working with you.

4.4 Summary

This chapter briefly sums up the necessities of a capability statement of a contractor

that wants to present himself as a qualified “Value-Added” partner for

70

bid/negotiate/LEED/Green projects. For a typical abbreviated contractors’ capability
statement, adding a detailed Green/LEED elements/aspects could support the ECs’
expression of their ability to build green or display themselves as a “Value-Added”

partner of a LEED/Green project team.

The sample statement above has been reviewed by the Industry Task Force and .
improved with the expertise’ feedback, especially on the Green/LEED features. This
chapter is expected to provide a guideline for ECs who want to build/establish their own
capability statement for presenting themselves as “Value-Added” members to owners and

GCs/CMs of LEED/Green projects.

71

CHAPTER 5

LEED-NC 2009 AND ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

5.1 Introduction

In April 2009, the LEED v3 was launched. The USGBC presents that “the ability to
be flexible allows LEED to evolve, taking advantage of new technologies and
advancements in building science while prioritizing energy efficiency and C02 emissions
reductions” (LEED v3 2010). Do these changes, and/or updating the LEED v3, influence
the contractors and subcontractors’ role and responsibilities in LEED projects? While
studying the LEED 2009 and the LEED v2.2 Reference Guide, the researcher focuses on
those credits related to ECs, finds the changes in the credit system and improvements
between the versions, and revises previous related research outputs. This chapter is
developed in three main parts: an overview of LEED v3, a comparison of related credits,

and ECs’ future trends.

5.1.1 Overview of LEED v3

The USGBC provides an equation: LEED v3 = LEED 2009 + LEED Online +
Certification Model. In this section, the author briefly introduces these three parts of

LEED v3.

LEED 2009 is the new rating system structure. For LEED 2009, the different rating
systems have been streamlined, aligned, and consolidated into three books that address

buildings by type and phase (Figure 5.1): Green Building Design & Construction, for

72

addressing new buildings; Green Interior Design & Construction, which focuses on
building interior fields; and Green Building Operations & Maintenance that addresses the
operations and maintenance of existing buildings. In this study, the researcher focuses on
the one used for new construction—Green Building Design & Construction (LEED-NC

2009)

 

Rating System Reference Guide

 

LEED for Commercial Interiors GREEN INTERIOR DESIGN
8: CONSTRUCTION
LEED for Retail Interiors“ 2009 Edition

LEED for Existing Buildings GREEN BUILDING

LEED for Existin Schools* OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
g 2009 Edition

 

 

 

 

Figure 5.1: New Categories for LEED 2009

The new version of LEED Online is highlighted to be a “faster, smarter and better
user experience” by the USGBC. The new LEED Online version improves its
functionality, especially on project management, which shows project organization, team
member administration, status indicators, and a timeline. For example, the new system
allows more than one team member to register the LEED project in order “to sort, view
and group their projects”. Furthermore, many new features are offered to support the

certification review process, in addition to enhance the functionality of subnrittal

documentation and certification templates, which include end-to-end process support,
improved mid-stream communication, data linkages, automatic data checks, and a

progressive, context-based disclosure of content (LEED v3 2010).

In LEED v3, the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) evolves more in the
Green Building movement, and cooperates with another 10 institutions to administer the
new building certification infrastructure. The new LEED certification bodies include:
ABS Quality Evaluations, Inc., BSI Management Systems America, Inc., Bureau Veritas
North America, Inc., DNV Certification, Intertek, KEMA-Registered Quality, Inc.,
Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance, Inc., NSF-Intemational Strategic Registrations, SRI

Quality System Registrar, Inc., and Underwriters Laboratories-DQS Inc.

In this research, the author focuses on the impact of the LEED Reference Guide for
the new construction 2009 edition (LEED 2009) for electrical contractors (ECs). In

addition, detailed changes and related analyses are shown in the following sections.

5.1.2 Review Electrical Contractors’ Role on LEED Projects

Few existing materials/research have identified the ECs’ roles and responsibilities for
LEED projects based on LEED-NC v2.2. However, Syal et al. (2009) is a comprehensive
study containing the analysis of ECs’ roles in LEED projects credit by credit, and
provides a detailed analysis of commissioning based on EC8’ views. In Syal et al. (2009),
the researchers identified related credit into three categories. The first is “Site Practices”,
which require ECs’ input on certain site practices. This category includes SSpl, SSc5.1,

MRc2, and EQc3. For example, in SSpl—Construction Activity Pollution Prevention, all

74

subcontractors should follow the erosion and sedimentation control plan (Syal et al.

2009).

“Products” is the second category that includes the credits, which encourages using
products which may assist the pursuit of Green Building, energy efficiency, etc. “It is
important for the EC to be knowledgeable about procurement, costing, alternatives, and
installing of such products.” (Syal et al. 2009) This category consists of $804.3, SSc8,

EAp2, EAc1,EAc2, EAcS, EQc1,EQc4.1,4.2, EQc6.1, and EQc8.1.

In the last category, the commissioning and ID credits were identified as an
opportunity for ECs to become “Value-Added” project team members. It includes EAp1,

EAc3, and IDc.

In this study, the author uses the credits related to ECs in LEED-NC v2.2 (Syal et al.
2009), and compares these credits’ requirements between LEED-NC 2009 and LEED-NC

v2.2. The following section shows the comparison and related analysis.

5.2 Comparison of LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009 and Reanalysis of the

Impact of These Changes on Electrical Contractors

Since the first version of the LEED Reference Guide for new construction launched
in 1998, the USGBC keeps improving the Reference Guide to meet the latest
requirements of measuring a Green Building. As introduced in the last section, the
USGBC did not only improve the credit weighting, it also improved another two aspects
to assist with the certification process: LEED Online and the Certification Model. In this

section, the author summarizes the overall changes of LEED 2009, detailed compares the

75

requirements of each selected credits in v2009 to those requirements in v2.2, and

finalizes the changes of credits related to ECs.

5.2.1 Overall changes

The USGBC presents the three major enhancements of the new rating system as

Harmonization, Credit Weightings, and Regionalization.

Harmonization of different rating system assists the LEED project participants who
want to learn two or more LEED rating systems on one project, or those project teams
who want to achieve two or more different LEED rating systems for one project. The new
Reference Guide, Green Building Design and Construction, combines three LEED rating
systems, and it is for the design, construction, and major renovations of commercial and

institutional buildings such as core & shell and K-12 school projects.

The points awarded for credit is depended on the credits’ ability/life-cycle to impact
different environmental and human health concerns. “With revised credit weightings,
LEED now awards more points for strategies that will have greater positive impacts on

what matters most—energy efficiency and C02 reductions.”

Tool for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and Other Environmental
Impacts (TRACI), which is developed by The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
was created to assist in impact assessment metrics geared towards Sustainability, Life
Cycle Assessment, Industrial Ecology, Process Design, and Pollution Prevention (TRACI

2010). Figure 5.2 shows the impact process of TRACI.

76

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Based on TRACI’s value system, each credit was evaluated against a list of 13
environmental impact categories, including climate change, indoor environmental quality,
resource depletion and water intake, among many others. Credits were assigned a value
based on how they contributed to reducing these impacts. The results revealed each
credit’s portion. By giving the most value to credits with the highest potential, the credits

are gained through different amounts. As a result, LEED 2009 will operate on a lOO-point

77

scale. Table 5.1 shows the point distribution in LEED 2009 and the certification level for
LEED-NC projects. The Credit Checklist for LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED 2009 are

provided as Appendix B.

5.2.2 New Category - Regional Priority

LEED 2009 introduced a new category—Regional Priorities—which can be awarded
a maximum of 4 credit points. This category was introduced to help builders and owners

prioritize environmental needs pertinent to a local area. The credits awarded are specific

to the geographical location, and the environmental zones are defined according to zip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

codes.
Table 5.1: LEED 2009 and LEED v2.2 Points Comparison
LEED 2009 Points LEED v2.2 Points
Categories for Sustainable Site 26 14
LEED-NC Water Efficiency 10 5
Rating System Energy & Atmosphere 35 17
Materials 8: Resources 14 13
Indoor Environmental Quality 15 15
Subtotal 100 64
Innovation in Design 6 5
Regional Priority 4 -
Total 110 69
Certification Certified 40-49 26-32
Level Silver 50-59 33-38
Gold 60-79 39-51
Platinum 80+ 52-69

 

 

 

 

 

78

 

In developing the Regional Priorities credits, the USGBC worked with its network of

78 local chapters and engaged ecologist and Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

experts to help develop the credits according to the specific environmental needs of the

local areas (Marshall 2009). The following table (Table 5.2) shows three examples of

Regional Priority credits based on zip codes (LEED v3 2010).

Table 5.2: Examples from Regional Priorities based on Zip Codes

 

 

 

Credits

 

Development

(Intent Avoid
development of
agricultural land)

Zip Code 48208 49618 33157

Location Detroit, Michigan Boon Michigan, Miami, Florida
Population from Population 951,270 Wexford County, Population 362,000
2000 census Population 670

Regional Priority SSc3 - Brownfield SSc1 - Site Selection SSc5.2 - Site

Development -
Maximize Open
Space

 

SSc4.1- Alternative
Transportation -
Public Transportation
Access

SSc5.1 - Site
Development - Protect
and Restore Habitat.

MRc1.1— Building
Reuse - Maintain
Existing Walls, Floors
and Roof 75%

 

SSc6.2- Stormwater
Design- Quality
Control

SSc6.2 - Stormwater
Design - Quality
Control

WEc2 -
Innovative
Wastewater
Technologies

 

SSc7.1 - Heat Island
Effect (Non-roof)

WEc1 (Option 2) - No
Potable Water Use or

EAc1 - Optimize
Energy Performance

 

Irrigation
MRc1.1— Building MRcS - Regional MRcS - Regional
Reuse - Maintain Materials (20% based Materials
Existing Walls, Floors on cost)

and Roof 75%

 

 

 

 

IEQc8.1 - Daylight
and Views - Daylight

 

As shown in the above table, in Michigan’s Detroit area, the development of

Brownfield, public transportation, and the reuse of buildings is encouraged; while in the

79

 

country/rural areas, site selection and development are becoming more important. In
urban Florida, the aim is to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, reuse the existing building
stock, decrease reliance on insufficient municipal wastewater plants, and utilize the

abundant local sunshine (USGBC 2009).

5.2.3 Detail Changes on Credits Related to ECs and the Impact of these Changes

The researcher decides to compare credits based on the credit’s subtitle. Table 5.3
lists the subtitles of each credit, and five subtitles were added, including Related Credits,
Timeline and Team, Examples, Regional Variations, and Operations and Maintenance

Considerations. In the following table, - presents that this subtitle is not existing in the

v2.2 Reference Guide.

Table 5.3: Comparison of Credit Subtitle between LEED 2009 and LEED-NC v2.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 LEED-NC V2.2
1 Benefits and Issues to Consider Considerations
2 Related Credits -
3 Summary of Referenced Standard Summary of Referenced Standard
4 Implementation Approach and Implementation
5 Timeline and Team -
6 Calculations Calculations
7 Documentation Guidance Submittal Documentation
8 Examples -
9 Exemplary Performance Exemplary Performance
10 Regional Variations (RV) -
11 Operations and Maintenance -
Considerations (OMC)
12 Resources Resources
13 Definitions Definitions

 

 

 

 

 

80

Based on the general changes analysis above, the researcher finalized the changes of
each related credits. Each credit has a table to show the changes and the detailed
comparisons. Compared with the Reference Guide of LEED—NC v2.2, most related
credits have changes. Some of the changes may affect the output of previous research
related to ECs, for example, SSc4.3: Alternative Transportation — Low-emitting and Fuel-
efficient Vehicles and IEQcc8: Daylight and Views. Some do not have effect on the
previous research on EC3, such as IEQc6.1: Controllability of Systems. The comparison
tables of SSc4.3, IEQcS and IEQc6.1 are showing below, and the tables of rest credits are

6‘ ,9

displaying in Appendix C. In these table, presents that it is not existing in the v2.2
Reference Guide; “Blank” presents that similar requirements/information of the subtitle

was contained in both Reference Guides.

SSc4.3: Alterngtiéle Transportation — Low-emitting_and Fuel-efficient Vehicles

Increase available points to three. With the same intent, but added requirements in
Option 1 which is Option 2 in the LEED-NC Reference Guideline and added another
option under this credit which is Option 4—Provide building occupants access to a low-

emitting or fuel-efficient vehicle-sharing program.

Table 5.4: Comparison Table of SSc4.3

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Same I Same
2 Related Credits

 

Designated spaces for low-emitting or fuel- -
efficient vehicles affect overall parking
capacity: SSc4.4 — Alternative
Transportation - Parking Capacity

 

 

 

 

 

81

Table 5.4 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 | LEED-NC 2.2

1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Same I Same

2 Related Credits
Designated spaces for low-emitting or fuel- -
efficient vehicles affect overall parking
capacity: SSc4.4 — Alternative
Transportation - Parking Capacity

3 Referenced Standard
No standards referenced W0 standards referenced

4 Implementation
Suggest a rating program to approach this
credit

5 Timeline and Team
During schematic design and design -
development, the future building users and
fueling/charging stations need to be
considered.

6 Calculations
Add the calculation for the Option 4 No Calculation

7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
Add the documentation guideline for
Option 4

8 Examples
Provide an example project background and -

a figure to show the location of preferred
parking.

9 Exemplary Performance
Demonstrating the project comprehensive Same
transportation management plan which
incent using multiple alternative options
and reduce the number of personal vehicles

10 Regional Variations
Consider the regional/existing -
infrastructure for alternative vehicles

11 Operation and Maintenance Considerations

 

 

Suggest to create procedures for helping
communicate with building occupants and

 

 

82

 

Table 5.4 Continued

 

assign operations staff for the -
administration on the use of preferred
parking

 

 

12

Resources

 

Additional: National Biodiesel Board

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Fuel-efficient vehicles, Full-time
equivalent (FT E), Greenhouse gases and
low-emitting vehicles

 

 

IEQc8.l Daylight and Views

Has the same intent. For the requirements, this provides four options—simulation,

prescriptive, measurement, and combination—instead of the three options in LEED v2.2.

Table 5.5: Comparison Table of IEQc8.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2

1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Economic issues I Cost issues

2 Related Credits
Affect views from the building interior: -

IEQc8.2;
Affect the energy performance: EAp2, EAc1
and lEQc6.

3 Referenced Standard
ASTM D1003-O7e1, Standard Test Method No referenced standard
for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of
Transparent Plastics;

4 Implementation
Add strategies to control glare

5 Timeline and Team
Duringthe pre-design stage, the goals for -
occupants’ work environment and general
lighting design should be discussed;

During schematic design, related strategies
should be oriented/considered;
During the preparation of construction

 

 

83

 

 

Table 5.5 Continued

 

documents, the LEED calculations and/or
computer simulation model should be
developed;

During construction, the design and
construction team should confirm that the
products and systems meets the
requirements;

During building operations, the owner and
facility manager have the responsibility of
checking and maintenance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
Provide calculation for four options I Provide calculation for three options
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
Develop documentation, maintain Glazing factor calculation method,
documentation, develop spreadsheet Computer simulation method,
documenting the daylight factors in Daylight measurement method, and
calculations section, and update the A narrative description for any
computer model. excluded from compliance
8 Examples
Provides one figure of Glass Characteristics -
and an example of a daylight simulation
model
9 Exemplary Performance
May be eligible for Exemplary Performance Same
if the project achieves 95% daylighting
based on the credit requirements and
guidelines
10 Regional Variation
The building site orientation and its specific -
regional location will directly influence the
available daylight throughout the day and
during the year.
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

 

Glazing and shading systems should be
regularly cleaned and maintained. Windows
and skylights require periodic sealant and
flashing inspections to ensure water
tightness.

 

 

84

 

Table 5.5 Continued

 

12 Resources

 

Additional: American Bird Conservancy, City
of Chicago, Department of Environment,
Fatal light Awareness program, and New

 

 

 

York City Audubon

13 Definitions
Additional: Daylighting zone, vision glazing, Additional: Glazing Factor, Non-
and window-to-floor ratio Occupied Spaces, and non-regularly

 

 

 

occupied spaces

 

 

IEQc6.1 Controllability of Systems
Has the same intent and requirements.

Table 5.6: Comparison Table of IEQc6.1

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 | LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Economic issues I Cost issues
2 Related Credits

 

Affected by lighting systems: IEQC8, -
IEQc6.2, EAp2, EAcl, EAp1, EAc3

 

 

 

 

3 Referenced Standard
No referenced standard I No referenced standard
4 Implementation

 

Add some information I

 

5 Timeline and Team

 

During design, consider occupants’ lighting -
needs and desires and design the layout of
lighting and controls;

in design development, coordinate power
and circuitry requirements by project teams
with involved electrical engineers;

Lighting calibration and commissioning
should be coordinated once fixtures have
been installed to ensure the system
operates as intended;

During building operation, training is
provided for building maintenance staff,

 

 

 

 

 

85

Table 5.6 Conti

nued

 

and lighting systems should be periodically
reviewed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
Adding the method of Office and other
regularly occupied spaces and Individual
workstation lighting controls
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
Additional: retain design information on
task lighting, sensors, and lighting controls
8 Examples
Provides two figures of Workstations with -
individually-adjustable task lighting and
shared Multi-occupant Space with Access
to lighting controls
9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations
Strong or weak sunlight may affect the -
usage of artificial lighting, and may
influence the design strategies
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
The number and type of lighting controls -
installed should be specified by building
owners and architects for lighting engineers
and operators
12 Resources
Additional: Association of lighting and
mercury recyclers and Energy-10
13 Definitions

 

 

Additional: Audiovisual (A/V) media, core
learning spaces, commissioning, controls,
day lighting, glare, Group multi-occupant

Additional: Non-regularly Occupied
Spaces

 

spaces, outdoor air and sensors

 

86

 

In the LEED 2009 Reference Guide, the available points of Del: Innovation in
Design increases from four to five. However, LEED 2009 requires the maximum
available points can be gained throughout the exemplary performance is three. This
requirement will encourage projects to approach ID points via Innovative Performance.
In order to get approval for ID credits, filing of CIR is not required but it can provide

clarification to project team before they invest is pursuing a particular credit.

5.2.4 Overall Impact of Changes on Electrical Contractors

Based on the above comparison, there are no major changes in effect for the previous
research on EC ’3 work role and responsibility in LEED projects. However, there are still

some aspects that ECs may need to pay attention to:

The new Reference Standard: In LEED 2009, most required ASHRAE Standards

have changed since 2007.

Documentation requirement: More documentation is required. In some credits, the
subcontractor may be required to track the required data and related project record/ 10 g
during the construction process in detail. When ECs act as major subcontractors, it is

necessary for them to be familiar with the new LEED On-line system.

Project integration: Earlier and more integration may be required for subcontractors,

especially those working with major subcontractors, like ECs.

Operations and Maintenances Consideration: ECs may be required to provide product
installation instructions, a lighting plan, etc., for maintenance. Keeping a clear and

detailed record for projects may also be necessary.

87

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Credits Reweighting: ECs may have more involvement on the credits with increased

points.

LEED Training and Exam: Having their own experience as a LEED® AP may help
ECs’ work efficiency. The harmonized Reference Guide may provide contractors and

subcontractors opportunities to learn other rating systems.

Regional Priority: Based on the location, up to four bonus points are available for the
projects. If one or more are related to ECs, their understanding and experience may assist

them to become a “Value-Added” project team member.

5.3 Summary

This chapter focuses on the changes of the new LEED version. From the overview of
the LEED v3 to the new LEED Reference Guide, the researcher provides a big picture of
the new LEED version. Then the author shaped the focuses on the changes of credits
which related to ECs. With the detailed comparison of the two Reference Guides, the

author finalizes the impact of the changes on EC3 and on previous research.

88

CHAPTER SIX
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
6.] Overview

This chapter presents an outline of the research scope, a summary of the research
process, and inferences and conclusions. In addition, the future areas of research are

discussed at the end of this chapter.

By the end of September 2009, 25,611 projects had been registered with LEED, and
the USGBC estimated 8,968 projects would register in 2009. With the high speed of the
development of LEED projects, to understand the Green Building Rating System has
become a requirement for being a LEED project team member. While several materials
or study guidelines have been published to assist contractors to understand the LEED
Green Building Rating System, how theses contractors present themselves as a “Value—
Added” project team member has become a special issue to discuss. This research
focuses on the impact of the ID category on EC5, the development of a sample business

proposal/capability statement/ statement of qualifications, and the impact of the new

LEED Reference Guide on EC3’ work scope of LEED projects.

Chapter 1 presented the introduction and the need statement of this research, and
defined the research goal, objectives, and methodology. It also provided the expected

research outputs.

Chapter 2 presented the literature review. The reviewed literature was divided into

three major sections, including the LEED/Green Buildings, the contractors’ role on

89

\

 

LEED projects, and the business proposal/capability statement/ statement of qualifications

for LEED projects.

Chapter 3 was assigned for the analysis of ECs’ role in the [D category. Because of
the lack of existing literature and research data for this topic, related Cle were collected
as the research data. Finally, the outputs were presented as slides for each selected CIR

and a checklist for all selected Cle was also provided.

Chapter 4 described the development of a sample business proposal/capability
statement/statement of qualifications for ECs to present their capabilities to handle LEED
projects and to be “Value-Added” project team member when bidding/negotiating

projects with owners, architects, and GCs/CMs.

Chapter 5 presented the overall changes of LEED v3, and compared the requirements
of credits related to ECs between the LEED-NC 2009 and LEED-NC v2.2. The detailed
changes were provided in a formatted table. Through the comparison, the impact of the

ECs’ work scope was identified in this chapter.

6.2 Summary of Research Objectives Achieved
6.2.1 Objective 1
Summarize the overall role of ECs on LEED projects based on the literature review.

This objective included the brief review of research on the role of GCs/CMs, and a
detailed review of the research on role of ECs and the requirements of the LEED-NC

v2.2 Reference Guide.

90

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.\

 

 

The ECs’ role and responsibility on LEED projects was summarized and filtered for
this research. In addition, via the detailed study of the LEED Reference Guide, an overall
understanding of the LEED-NC rating system was gained. The understanding of LEED-

NC rating system provides great assistance for the comparison in the Chapter 5.

6.2.2 Objective 2

Analyze and determine the role and responsibilities of ECs in ID category of LEED-

NCVZZ

With the use of research methodology similar to such as Content Analysis and Pattern
Matching, this objective was achieved by analyzing the related CIRs. To better
understand this category’s purpose and to identify ECs’ possible work scope on this
category, CIRs, which are related to ECs and belong to the ID category, were selected

and analyzed.

Each CIR contains two main parts. The first part includes the intent of the CIR, the
projects description and questions on credits/strategies. This first part was summarized
and categorized into exemplary and innovative performances, which are two categories
for IDcl. The second part is the CIR’s rulings which are the response/suggestions from
the USGBC. This part was analyzed and categorized as “Approved”, “Denied” and

“Undecided” based on the analysis.

Based on all the analysis above, the ECs role in ID categories was identified and an

overall checklist table of ECs’ work scope in II) categories was provided.

91

TI'

 

6.2.3 Objective 3

Develop a sample business proposal/capability statement/statement of qualifications
for ECs to assist them while presenting themselves to owners, architects, and GCs/CMs

as “Value-Added” members of LEED-NC project teams.

To achieve this objective, first the literature on typical contractors’/subcontractors’
capability statements was reviewed. Several sectors were summarized to count as parts of
the typical contractors’/subcontractors’ capability statements, including company
overview, management and organization, the departments’ introduction, and past project

experience.

In addition, based on the literature review of research of the role of ECs on LEED
projects, several elements were identified and introduced as “Green” features of a ECs’
capability statements. These elements include a revised organization structure which adds
a special LEED department for the company, the company’s LEED training program, an
introduction of the LEED department, LEED project experience, and the company’s

corporate commitment to sustainability.

The output of this objective also contains a sample of an EC’s capability statement,

which included the feedback/suggestions of the Industry Task Force.

6.2.4 Objective 4

Summarize the changes in related LEED credits based on LEED-NC 2009 and

discuss the effect of these changes on the output of Objectives 1 and 2.

92

To achieve this objective, the research related to the ECs’ role was reviewed to
identify related credits in the LEED-NC Reference Guide. The new LEED-NC Reference
Guide and related reports and articles were reviewed to understand the LEED v3 and its

changes.

To compare those credits related to ECs, the table of content of the credit’s
requirement was used to clearly illustrate the increase in sectors and the improved sectors

of each related credit.

Based on the comparison and the understanding of the output of preliminary work,
the impact of those changes between two versions’ Reference Guides of the previous
work was analyzed. In addition, a few suggestions were provided for ECs to adopt the

new Reference Guide.

6.3 Inferences and Conclusions

This section presents the inferences and conclusions drawn in this research.
Following inferences and conclusions are based on the existing literature and this

research.

A. ECs play an important role in the overall delivery of a green project. Nineteen out
of 62 LEED credits may have an impact on EC5 work on LEED projects. In addition,
LEED-NC 2009 may require ECs to involve earlier in the project phases, such as in the

early design period.

B. Based on the research done in Chapter 3, ECs also play an important role in the

pursuit of ID credits. Six of the related credits are eligible for exemplary performance,

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including SSc4.3, SSc 5.1, EAcl, EAc2, MRc2, and IEQc 8. ECs’ work area in the ID
category can be categorized as Product and Components, Electrical Services/Procurement,
Commissioning, Educational Program, and others. For example, in the CIR of “Reduced
Mercury in Light Bulbs” (Figure 3.4), ECs may manage the procurement of reduced
mercury light bulbs. In this case, ECs can approach this credit/program to gain one point
for the project. Especially since the new LEED Reference Guide requires that a project
can only gain a maximum of three ID points through exemplary performance, ECs play

significant roles in achieving LEED projects as “Value-Added” project team members.

C. This research also proved the importance of ECs being able to clearly show their
capabilities for being a valuable team member. A business proposal/capability
statement/ statement of qualifications that presents ECs’ understanding of LEED projects
can assist ECs in bidding/negotiating for LEED projects. Although few standard/typical
business proposals are available for contractors/subcontractors, there is a lack of

statements of clarification for ECs interested in Green/LEED projects.

D. The detailed comparison of credits between the two versions of the Reference
Guide clearly shows the changes made to related credits. Not many significant changes
will effect on EC3’ work scope, which was identified by the previous research. A few

suggestions/recommendations were provided in the relevant chapter.

94

6.4 Areas of Future Research

This section provides several future research areas which relate to this research focus.
Some research is being conducted on parts of the following areas. The researcher believes

that the areas mentioned below could become viable research areas to explore:

A. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Application in LEED Projects

Currently, more projects are using BIM to improve projects collaboration between
the owner, designer, architect, and contractors. This process improves and assists
earlier decision-making, better documentation, and the evaluation of sustainable
design. ECs, as one of the major subcontractors, may be required to become involved
in the development of the building’s model. BIM has been used not only on

conventional projects, but also on more and more green projects.
B. ECs’ Involvement in Different LEED Project Delivery Method

The use of different project delivery methods may influence a project’s overall
performance. In addition, some project delivery methods may require the ECs’ early
involvement. Having knowledge of project delivery methods could show ECs’

capability for LEED/Green projects.
C. Operation and Maintenance

As a new category of the LEED 2009 Reference Guide, Operation and
Maintenances may require ECs to become more involved during the construction,
post-construction and occupation phases. Some credits require to provide product’

instructions and design drawing/plan for the building operator and/or maintenances,

95

such as the lighting plan. In addition, ECs may play an important role in building re-

commissioning.
D. Application of Green/Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

Federal, state, and local governments are encouraged to use renewable energy in
order to reduce energy consumption of buildings. Therefore, ECs may pay more
attention to the usage of green electrical materials, such as cable, lighting bulbs, etc.
For example, if a project plans to install PV for using solar, and if it created more
energy than the project’s consumption during some period of the day, ECs may
propose to install properly sized energy storage equipment to save the extra energy

and use it during other times of the day.

6.5 Summary

In order to meet the demand of an assisted materials/ guideline for trade contractors to
become “Value-Added” project team members of Green/LEED projects, this research
focuses on the role of ECs in the ID category in LEED-NC projects, and develops the
sample capability statement for ECs to present their understanding and capability to join
LEED/Green projects. In addition, this research compares—in details—the ECs’ related
credits in the LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009, which helps to reevaluate their prior
work and provides suggestions for ECs to play a better role in projects registered under

the LEED v3.

96

Appendix A
CIRs of Innovation in Design Credit

Related to Electrical Contractors

97

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LEED-NC 2. l &2.0 (5/28/2004)

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Flexible Building Systems
Project

This project proposes to construct at least 70% of all interior laboratory walls
from demountable relocatable wall systems, and to provide flexible
mechanical/electrical services for 70% of spaces allowing easy reconfiguration
of laboratories due to future needs.

EC Related Areas

1. Changes in the procurement, installation and commissioning of the electrical
services

2. May have an impact on fixture and material used
Ruling
This approach may be worthy of an innovation credit.

 

 

 

Figure A.1: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 052804

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.ll (5/7/2004)

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Energy Optinrization and Electrical Load Control
Project

A university’s laboratory design team engineered an electrical system to
control the peak loads by operating an electric boiler under the time-of-day
rates. They also designed the building’s electrical and mechanical systems to
optimize the building’s energy load.

EC Related Areas
1. Installation of controls for off-peak times

2. Be aware of changes in the standard electrical & mechanical designs and
their impact on installation

Ruling

This strategy could qualify as an innovation credit because it is neither a
component of LEED EAcl or a regulated component of ASHRAE 90.1.

 

 

Figure A.2z Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050704

98

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.ll (5/2l/2llll3)

 

- Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Water Treatment

- Project

This project proposes to use electronics, instead of chemical technology, to
clean limestone build-up in the plumbing systems. It is done to reduce chemical
and/or potentially hazardous discharges from the project’s site.

° EC Related Area

Installation, commissioning and maintenance of the electrical related parts of
the water treatment system

0 Ruling
If is possible to achieve an innovation credit with the proposed technology.

 

Figure A.3: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 052103

 

 

LEED-NC 2.18.2.0 (12/18/2002)

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Life Cycle Analysis/Database DeveloPment
Project

The project has developed in-house tools to evaluate the life-cycle impact of
materials. Their tools include: 1) Sustainable Questionnaire - to be filled out by
the sustainable consultant and manufacturers and will be used for the most
materials’ final selection; 2) Database - to collect all information of related
products for tracking and future projects consideration; 3) LEED Comparison to
Federal Requirements - a matrix to show the overlap between LEED & other
Federal requirements.

EC Related Area
Providing data of electrical products
Ruling

LEED would like to award an innovation credit for initiatives that encourage
the use of Life Cycle Analysis techniques and set an example for other projects.

 

Figure AA: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 121802

99

 

 

TI

fl

 

 

 

LEIGH-NC 2.l&2.ll (2/l‘)/2llll2)

 

- Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Environmentally Preferred Workstations
- Project

The project’s landmark environmental specification for its furniture systems
include criteria for lighting, recycled content materials and indoor air quality.
This project will apply task lights with electronic ballasts, the use of a personal
plugstrip with occupancy sensor control, and task lighting education to provide
an environmentally preferred workstation.

- EC Related Area
1. Procurement, installation and commissioning of above-noted electrical
features
2. May have impact on fixtures and materials selection

- Ruling

This project should attempt an innovation credit for non-toxic workstations,

since the energy efficient workstation is covered under Energy Efficiency
Credit 1. The basis of the innovation is that a large pollutant load unrecognized

by LEED has been identified and reduced. It would be necessary to
comprehensively document the strategies and the savings.

 

Figure A.5: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 021902

 

 

l.l".|’.l)-('I 2.0 (3/26/2007)

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Laboratory Safety - Fume Hood Commissioning
Project

This project proposes to conduct Fume Hood commissioning (including
ASHRAE-110 method for testing the performance of Laboratory Fume Hoods)
on all of the project’s fume hoods to insure the health and safety of laboratory
employees.

EC Related Area

Installation and commissioning of fume hoods including these fail-safe alarm
system

Ruling

ASHRAE-110 commissioning of fume hoods is acceptable for an innovation
credit.

 

Figure A.6: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 032607

100

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-Cl 2.0 (9/18/2006)

- Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Alternative Transportation — Hybrid Vehicle Reimbursement Program
- Project
This project proposes to obtain an innovation credit by encouraging its
employees to purchase Hybrid Vehicles by instituting a reimbursement
program.
° EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of charging stations
0 Ruling
Following the criteria under LEED-CI, this project may be awarded one
innovation credit for the incentive program, as long as it is part of a

comprehensive transportation management plan that takes into account other
modes of alternative transportation.

 

Figure A.7: Approved Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091806

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (3/20/2007)

0 Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Green Building Educational Component
0 Project
This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit by providing an
educational package. This package includes two parts. One is a display system
composed of small iconographic signs throughout the facility highlighting
where green strategies have been employed. The other is a case study book or
website, which will highlight materials and strategies used throughout the
facility.
' EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information to the education program
0 Ruling
The strategies described meet the intent of an innovation credit for education.

 

Figure A.8: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 032007

101

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.ll (2/21/2007)

 

0 Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Educational Outreach Program
0 Project

The mixed-use facility project proposes to develop an educational outreach
program. This program includes interpretive signage program to communicate
the major sustainable design aspects; project manual for sustainable design
features for the project with project narratives, supporting graphics
documenting, project LEED checklist and templates; and an educational
outreach program to further residents’ awareness of sustainable living.

0 EC Related Area
Providing electric related information to the education program
0 Ruling

The provided description has met the precedent set fourth in CIR Ruling date
9/ 24/ 0 l .

 

Figure A.9: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 022107

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.ll (1/14/2003)

 

0 Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Educational Program

- Project

This project proposes to obtain an innovation credit by developing an
education program. This program will include Educational Signage (which
compose of interior general signage and interior/exterior locational signage),
Educational Brochure for public distribution, and Educational Manual for
owner’s employees.

0 EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information for the educational program
- Ruling
The information provided seems generally aligned with the ID Education
requirement explained in multiple previous credit interpretation requests.

 

Figure A.10: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 011403

102

 

 

 

 

LEED-('1 2.ll(ll/12/2llll7)

 

0 Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Educational Program - The Lutron Quantum System
- Project

This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit by utilizing the Lutron
Quantum system, which is a complete light and energy management system that
can lower energy consumption up to 70%. The system will be displayed on a
screen in the lobby to show all employee and visitors a real-time snapshot of the
energy usage of the facility.

0 EC Related Area

1. Installation and commissioning of the system including providing lighting
related information

2. May have an impact on fixtures and material used in the electrical design
- Ruling
This strategy may be considered a part of the comprehensive educational
innovation credit.

 

Figure A.11: Approved Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 111207

 

 

L lili l)-.\'(‘ 2. l &2.ll (l/25/2llll8)

 

0 Title and Credit

Exemplary Performance

EAc2 On-Site Renewable Energy — Rooftop Photo-Voltaic (PV) Array
- Project

The project has a 36kW rooftop PV array which will supply 31.93% of the
total energy used by the building. The project requests clarification that the
exemplary performance threshold was set at 31.02%in the previous CIR of
1/1 9/05.

- EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of rooftop PV
- Ruling
The exemplary performance threshold for LEED-NC v2.1 EAc2 is set at
31.01%. Therefore, the project is worthy for an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.12: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 012508

103

 

 

 

 

l. Ii [CD-NC 2. l &2.ll (Ill/270.003)

 

0 Title and Credit
Exemplary Performance
SSc4.3: Alternative Fuel Vehicles
0 Project
As an exemplary credit under SSc4.3, the project’ will provide both:

1. Lease agreements for alternative fuel vehicles and calculations indicating
those vehicles will serve 3% of building occupants; and

2. Site drawings highlighting alternative-fuel /charging stations, and calculations
demonstrating that these facilities will accommodate 3% or more of the total
vehicle parking capacity.
0 EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of charging/fueling stations
0 Ruling
Meets the exemplary credit - likely to be awarded an Innovation Credit

 

Figure A.13: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 102703

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.18.2.0 (6/10/2003)

° Title and Credit

Exemplary Performance

SSc4.3: Alternative Fuel Vehicles
- Project

The project proposes to provide Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles,
parking areas, and to partner with a private fuel distribution company that will
build a CN G refueling stations within a few blocks.

0 EC Related Areas
Providing electrical services and commissioning of CNG fueling stations
- Ruling
The approach outlined is acceptable to achieve an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.14: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 061003

104

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (12/30/2002 )

 

0 Title and Credit

Exemplary Performance

Energy Use Reduction - EAc l Optimize Energy Performance

and High Renewable Energy Use - EAc 2 On-Site Renewable Energy
- Project

The project designs the building with using Photo-Voltaics (PV) to become a
“net energy exporter”. The project claims 85% less energy use than comparable
conventional buildings and 55% or more renewable energy. These are
submitted as two separate innovation credits (EAc 1 and EAc 2).

° EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of PV
0 Ruling
The project will be approved if demonstrates exceed existing LEED

requirements in both credit categories.

 

 

 

Figure A.15: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 123002

 

LEED—NC 2.l&2.0 (5/17/2002 )

 

- Title and Credit

Exemplary Performance

District Energy System - Chilled Water System
0 Project

The project proposes to use a district chilled water instead of individual
chiller/cooling tower. The advantages of the system includes: 1) achieving
higher overall operating efficiencies, 2) reducing individual mechanical rooms
or penthouses, 3) monitoring refrigerants more easily.

0 EC Related Area

Procurement, installation and commissioning of the electrical services related to
the proposal system

- Ruling

Energy Efficiency is a clearly defined and quantified goal of LEED, and as
such the project can capture LEED points by demonstrating these energy
savings that accrue to the building by participating in the district strategy. In
this case, if the system is highly energy efficient, there are up to 10 LEED
points available to the project for this achievement. The project should apply for
and achieve those credits before other innovations are claimed.

 

 

 

Figure A.16: Approved Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 051702

105

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (12/12/2007)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

12kV Photo-Voltaic (PV) System — To Loop Existing Buildings
Project

The project proposes to install a 12kW rooftop PV loop on the nearby
buildings in order to consolidate several buildings’ loads to a common meter at
a higher voltage service.

EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of rooftop PV
Ruling
Request Denied. The additional PV is considered as part of LEED EAc2.

 

Figure A.17: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 121207

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (8/26/2008)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Efficient Network Components In Data Center
Project

This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit via the data center
energy reduction initiative. It consists of the installation of more efficient
network components (i.e., high fiber count pre-teminated optical connections)
to reduce the energy required to power and cool the data center electronics in
data centers.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of network components
Ruling

The proposed strategy is not eligible to achieve an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.18: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 082608

106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (6/2/2006)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Activated Carbon Filters for Low-Cost Demand Control Ventilation and Energy
Efficiency

Project

This project proposes an innovation design credit for a suite of design
features and a design procedure which will reduce the cost of demand
controlled ventilation (DCV). Some electronics would be used: l.activated
charcoal (AC) filters, 2.C02 sensors, 3.air-to-air heat recovery, and 4.tirne-of-
day control of ventilation.

EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of above-noted electronics
Ruling

This strategy would not qualify for a ID credit because there are not
additional environmental benefits from this design approach is qualified.

 

Figure A.19: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 060206

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (1/26/2006)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Low- Cost HVAC for Green Building
Project

This project pr0poses to approach an innovation credit by providing an
HVAC system that will meet ASHRAE Standards 62 and 55, and will use less
energy while costing at least 20% less than a standard system (based on
ASHRAE Standards 90).

EC Related Area

Procurement, installation and commissioning of related electrical services
Ruling

The proposal is not sufficient for an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.20: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012606

107

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0(11/17/2004)

 

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Laboratory Controls Testing
Project

This project proposes to incorporate Pre-Installation Testing of Laboratory
Temperature and Airflow Control System (LTACS) into the project scope to
test the complete mock-up of a fimctional lab control system. The testing scope
will include air valves, fume hood controllers, fume hood sash sensors, etc.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of LTAC S
Ruling

Would likely be denied, because by only testing a mock up of the laboratory
fume hoods, it is hard to ensure health and safety of occupants and reduced
energy use.

 

Figure A.21: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 111704

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (2/6/2004)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Load, System Size and Energy Conservation Studies
Project

This project proposes to evaluate alternative HVAC systems’ Life Cycle Cost
to optimize building systems’ selection and performance.

EC Related Area
Providing related electrical data/information
Ruling

This proposal is unlikely to qualify for an innovation credit. Because it is
typically part of normal integrated design process under EAcl.

 

Figure A.22: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 020604

108

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (9/15/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Natural Light Sensors and Dimmers
Project

This project proposes to use natural light sensors and dimming controls in
perimeter and non-perimeter working areas to reduce energy consumption.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of lighting sensors and the
dimming control system
Ruling

This strategy will not be awarded an innovation credit. It should be applied
towards total building energy optimization under EA Credit 1: Optimize Energy
Performance.

 

Figure A.23: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091503

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (9/11/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
LED Signage and Feature Lighting
Project
This project proposes that the benefits of energy savings from using LED
signage and lights are beyond the requirements of either EAcl (Optimize

Energy Performance) or $808 (Light Pollution Reduction). Therefore, the
strategy should be counted as innovative performance.

EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of LED lighting and LED signage
Ruling

An innovation credit will not be awarded because this strategy is covered
under EA Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance.

 

Figure A.24: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 091103

109

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (5/7/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Full Spectrum Lighting
Project

This project is proposed to achieve an innovation credit by using the full
spectrum lighting, which may benefit human health and work performance.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of the Full Spectrum Lighting
Ruling

USGBC will not award an innovation credit for the use of full-spectrum

fluorescent lighting (FSFL) until a positive effect on human health and
performance has been proved by scientific evidence.

 

Figure A.25: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050703

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (7/4/2003)

 

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Exterior Lighting Energy Reduction
Project

This project plans on using solar-powered light poles for its exterior lighting
to reduce more than 50% non-building energy cost.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of solar-powered light poles
Ruling

The proposed performance metric is not acceptable although such technology
is encouraged by USGBC.

 

Figure A.26: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 070403

110

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (5/30/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Innovative Energy Export - Centralized Cooling System
Project

This project proposes to use a central chilled water and heating hot water
plant for supplying multiple surrounding buildings. It will lead to at least 15%
lower electric demand of buildings than independent cooling systems, conserve
green space and construction materials, and reduce energy consumption.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of electrical services
Ruling

This strategy does not constitute an innovation credit, because it may gain
points under EAcl.

 

Figure A.27: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 053003

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.l&2.0 (4/7/2003) ,

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Advanced HVAC Equipment
Project

This project proposes to utilize technologically and environmentally
advanced HV AC equipment - Turbocor refrigerant compressors, which use
Magnetic Levitation. It supports new and emerging energy-efficiency
technology, has environmental impact, conserves material and resource, and
reduces Ozone depletion.
EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of related electrical components
Ruling

The proposal will not warrant an innovation credit because the project will

be rewarded for the usage of this technology within the context of existing
LEED credits.

 

Figure A.28: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 040703

111

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (1/22/2003)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Photo-Voltaic (PV) Technology
Project

This project proposes to use a lower embodied energy associated with a
flexible PV system that utilizes a manufacturing process more resource- and
energy- efficient, than standard crystalline silicone solar cells. It will reduce the
resource demand associated with producing energy on-site.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of the flexible PV system
Ruling

This proposal would not achieve an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.29: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012203

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (12/9/2002)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Solar Light Fixtures
Project
This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit by using solar light
fixtures in the parking area.

EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of solar light fixtures.
Ruling

The usage of a Photo-Voltaic (PV) system does not qualify for an innovation
credit. This strategy should be under EAc2.

 

Figure A.30: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120903

112

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (12/6/2002)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Linking Egress Lighting with Alarm System
Project

This project proposes to connect the alarm system with the egress lighting
system. Therefore, the exit signs will turn off when the alarm system is
activated which signifies the building is unoccupied. The exit signs will turn
back on, when the building alarm is deactivated or the fire alarm is activated.
EC Related Area

Installation and commissioning of the link between its egress lighting and the
alarm system

Ruling
No, the USGBC does not consider this proposal to merit an innovation credit.

 

Figure A.31: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120603

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (7/25/2002)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Interlocked Natural Ventilation and Mechanical Systems
Project

This project proposes to utilize the built-in sensors in windows of a science
center to link natural ventilation and mechanical system. The mechanical
systems of rooms will be shut off whenever the windows are opened.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of the related electrical services
Ruling
It is unclear on what basis an innovation credit would be awarded for
interlocking window/ HVAC controls.

 

Figure A.32: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 072502

113

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (6/21/2002)

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Energy Star Appliances
Project

This project proposes to increase plug load efficiency by using Energy Star
Appliances. It will reduce total energy consumption of the building.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of Energy Star appliances and their plug load
monitoring
Ruling
The Credit Ruling Committee was not in favor of this innovation credit

because of the longevity of the plugs conservation measure compared to base
building improvements.

 

Figure A.33: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 062102

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (5/17/2002)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Underground Parking Facility - Lighting
Project

This project proposes an underground parking facility plan associated with
parking garage lighting plan and ventilation systems to reduce energy and
material resource usage.

EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of the related electrical services
Ruling

The project cannot receive an innovation credit. The project is trying to

provide a comfortable parking garage which could seem to encourage more
automobile use but LEED encourages less.

 

Figure A.34: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 051702

114

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (1/24/2002)

 

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Peak Demand Limitation
Project

This project proposes to perform peak demand energy limitations by setting
up a building energy management system. The basic strategy will be to set up a
control matrix of temperature set points that at the peak demand periods will be
allowed to float over a broader range.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of the related electrical services
Ruling
This energy reduction strategy will not qualify for an ID credit because it is
covered under EAcl.

 

Figure A.35: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012402

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (1/23/2002)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Limited Use of Personal Electronic Devices
Project

This strategy proposes to limit the use of personal electronic devices which
draw significant electrical power.

EC Related Area
Possible impact on electrical design
Ruling

This strategy will not qualify for an innovative credit because it already
contributes to EAcl.

 

Figure A.36: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 012302

115

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (11/2/2001)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance
Occupancy Sensors on Task Lights
Project

This project proposes to achieve an innovation credit by providing occupancy
sensors on task lights.

EC Related Area
Installation and commissioning of sensors on task lights
Ruling
No, this strategy is already addressed by EQc6 and potentially EAc 1.

 

Figure A.37: Denied Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 110201

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (3/2/2004)

 

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance
Subcontractor Training Program
Project

This project proposes to conduct a subcontractor training program. This
program will include an orientation session and bi-monthly workshops to
educate the labor force about LEED and the importance of sustainable
construction practices.

EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information and participating the program
Ruling

This program will not qualify for an innovation credit. Educating the

subcontractors working on a LEED project, team education and integrated
design are standard for a LEED project.

 

Figure A.38: Denied Educational CIR within Innovative Performance 030204

116

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-CS 2.0 (12/5/2007)

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Educational Program - Working Well Program (WWP)
Project

This project proposes to develop an educational program. This program will
provide a coordinator, who will organize activities, seminars and events to
educate tenants on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, and the coordinator will
communicate with tenants, sunrrnaries their feedback and so on.
EC Related Area

Providing electrical related information to the program
Ruling

An innovation credit cannot be awarded for this program. Because this
proposal does not provide adequate justification of environmental benefits of
the program, and the human health benefits do not directly relate to the design,
construction or operations of the building, which are the focus of the LEED-CS
rating system.

 

Figure A.39: Denied Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 120507

 

 

 

 

LEED-CS 2.0 (11/16/2007)

 

 

Title and Credit
Exemplary Performance
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) Shield
Project
This project proposes to install an Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) magnetic
shielding system to protect the tenants fiorn increased EMF.
EC Related Area
Procurement, installation and commissioning of the magnetic shielding system
Ruling

Arr innovation credit will not be awarded for this strategy. As further
research in this field develops, USGBC may choose to address this issue in
future versions of the LEED rating system.

 

Figure A.40: Denied Regular CIR within Exemplary Performance 111607

117

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.2 (1/19/2009)

 

 

Title and Credit
Irmovative Performance
“Green” Trailers
Project

This project proposes to use “green” trailers during construction on LEED
projects to reduce energy use, raise awareness, improve occupant comfort, and
reduce the ecological footprint of the trailers. The “green” trailers will
incorporate sustainable measures, such as motion sensors for lights, larger
windows, efficient lighting, etc.

EC Related Area

EC’s may be asked to install and maintain the electric facilities on these trailers
Ruling

The “green” trailer has sustainable measures. It is unclear whether these
measures will demonstrate significant, measurable environmental benefits. If

additional measures similar to these were implemented, an innovation credit
would likely be granted for these “green” trailers.

 

Figure A.41: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 011909

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.2 (12/6/2002)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance
CNG Vehicles for Employees
Project

This project is proposes to achieve an innovation credit by purchasing a new
fleet of CNG vehicles for employees and building a CNG refueling station.

EC Related Area
Providing electrical services and commissioning of refueling stations
Ruling
LEED Credit for purchasing of alternative fuel vehicles (AF Vs) and
providing preferred parking for those vehicles is already provided under SSc4.3.

 

Figure A.42: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 120602

118

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (5/4/2002)

 

 

 

Title and Credit
Innovative Performance
Tenant Improvement Manual
Project
This project proposes to develop a tenant improvement manual to educate the
tenants on green features in the building and encourage them to pursue similar
green measures for tenant improvement build-out. The manual describes a wide
range of sustainability-related measures available to tenants.
EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information to the program
Ruling

To approach an innovation credit for education, it is required to include two
of the following three elements: 1) A comprehensive signage program built into
the building’s spaces to educate the occupants and visitors of the benefits of
green buildings; 2) A manual, guideline or case study to inform the design of
other buildings based on the successes of this project; 3) An educational
outreach program or guided tour to focus on sustainable living using the project
as an example.

 

Figure A.43: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 050402

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (9/24/2001)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Green Building Education Program
Project

This project proposed to obtain an innovation credit by providing the public
with education focusing on Green Building strategies and solutions.

EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information to the program
Ruling

Same as last slide.

 

Figure A.44: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 092401a

119

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEED-NC 2.1&2.0 (9/24/2001)

 

 

Title and Credit

Innovative Performance

Case study of Green Building
Project

This project proposes to obtain an innovation credit by providing a case study
comparing the current offices with the operation of the new building.

EC Related Area
Providing electrical related information to the program

Ruling
Same as last slide.

 

Figure A.45: Undecided Regular CIR within Innovative Performance 092401b

120

 

Appendix B

Credit Checklist of

LEED-NC v2.2 and LEED-NC 2009

121

Table 3.1 LEED for New Construction v 2.2 Registered Project Checklist

 

Project Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project
Address
Yes ? No
. , . , , . , . . . ,
Certified: 2632 points; Silver: 33-38 points; Gold: 39-51 points; Platinum: 52-69
points
Yes ? No
Sustainable Sites 14 Points
Prereq 1 Construction Activity Pollution Prevention Required
Credit 1 Site Selection 1
Credit 2 Development Density & Community Connectivity 1
Credit 3 Brownfield Redevelopment 1
Credit 4.1 Alternative Transportation, Public Transportation 1
Credit 4.2 Alternative Transportation: Bicycle Storage& Charging 1
Rooms
Credit 4.3 Alternative Transportation: Low-Emitting & Fuel Efficient 1
Vehicles
Credit 4.4 Alternative Transportation: Parking Capacity 1
Credit 5.1 Site Development, Protect or Restore Habitat 1
Credit 5.2 Site Development, Maximize Open Space 1
Credit 6.1 Stormwater Design, Quantity Control 1
Credit 6.2 Stormwater Design, Quality Control 1
Credit 7.1 Heat Island Effect, Non-Roof 1
Credit 7.2 Heat Island Effect, Roof 1
Credit 8 Light Pollution Reduction 1
Yes ? No
Credit 1.1 Water Efficient Landscaping, Reduce by 50% 1
Credit 1.2 Water Efficient Landscaping, No Potable Use or No 1
Irrigation
Credit 2 Innovative Wastewater Technologies 1
Credit 3.1 Water Use Reduction, 20% Reduction 1
Credit 3.2 Water Use Reduction, 30% Reduction 1
Yes ? No
Prereq 1 Fundamental Commissioning of the Building Energy Required
Systems
Prereq 1 Minimum Energy Performance Required
Prereq 1 Fundamental Refrigerant Management Required
Credit 1 Optimize energy Performance 1 to 10
Credit 2 On-Site Renewable Energy 1 to 3
Credit 3 Enhanced Commissioning 1
Credit 4 Enhanced Refrigerant Management 1
Credit 5 Measurement & Verification 1
Credit 6 Green Power 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

122

-1

Table B. 1 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes No
. c . i ' c v ’ o
Prereq 1 Storage & Collection of Recyclables Required
Credit 1.1 Building Reuse, Maintain 75% of Existing Walls, Floors & 1
Roof
Credit 1.2 Building Reuse, Maintain 95% of Existing Walls, Floors & 1
Roof
Credit 1.3 Building Reuse, Maintain 50% of Interior Non-Structural 1
Elements
Credit 2.1 Construction Waste Management, Divert 50% from 1
Disposal
Credit 2.2 Construction Waste Management, Divert 75% from 1
Disposal
Credit 3.1 Materials Reuse, 5% 1
Credit 3.2 Materials Reuse, 10% 1
Credit 4.1 Recycled Content, 10%(post-consumer+1/2pre-consumer) 1
Credit 4.2 Recycled Content, 20%(post-consumer+1/2pre-consumer) 1
Credit 5.1 Regional Materials, 10% Extracted, Processed & 1
Manufactured
Credit 5.2 Regional Materials, 20% Extracted, Processed & 1
Manufactured
Credit 6 Rapidly Renewable Materials 1
Credit 7 Certified Wood 1
Yes No
a o o o ' . O ' a
Prereq 1 Minimum IAQ Performance Required
Prereq 2 Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Control Required
Credit 1 Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring 1
Credit 2 Increased Ventilation 1
Credit 3.1 Construction IAQ Management Plan, During Construction 1
Credit 3.2 Construction IAQ Management Plan, Before Occupancy 1
Credit 4.1 Low-Emitting Materials, Adhesives & Sealants 1
Credit 4.2 Low-Emitting Materials, Paints & Coatings 1
Credit 4.3 Low-Emitting Materials, Carpet systems 1
Credit 4.4 Low-Emitting Materials, Composite Wood & Agrifiber 1
Products
Credit 5 Indoor Chemical & Pollutant Source Control 1
Credit 6.1 Controllability of Systems, Lighting 1
Credit 6.2 Controllability of Systems, Thermal Comfort 1
Credit 7.1 Thermal Comfort, Desigfin 1
Credit 7.2 Thermal Comfort, Verification 1
Credit 8.1 Daylight & Views, Daylight 75% of Spaces 1
Credit 8.2 Daylight & Views, Views for 90% of Spaces 1
Yes No
v a I 0 ’ a ' 0
Credit 1.1 Innovation in Design 1 to 4
Credit 2 LEED Accredited Professional 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

123

 

 

 

Table B.2 LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations Project Checklist

Name
Project
Address

Pr 1
Credit 1
Credit 2
Credit 3
Credit 4.1
Credit 4.2
Credit 4.3
Credit 4.4
Credit 5.1
Credit 5.2
Credit 6.1
Credit 6.2
Credit 7.1
Credit 7.2
Credit 8

1
Credit 1
Credit 2
Credit 3

1

1
Prer 1
Credit 1
Credit 2
Credit 3
Credit 4
Credit 5
Credit 6

1
Credit 1.1
Credit 1.2
Credit 2.1
Credit 3.1
Credit 4.1
Credit 5.1
Credit 6
Credit 7

Construction Pollution Prevention
Site Selection
& Commu Con
Brownfield
Alternative Tra blic T
Alternative Tra Rooms
Alternative Tra mitti & Fuel Efficient Vehicles
Alternative Tra
Site -Protect or Restore Habitat
Site -Maximize
Stormwater Control
Stormwater Control
Heat Island Effect-Nonroof
Heat Island Effect- Roof
Pollution Reduction

Water Use Reduction
Water Efficient La
Innovative Wastewater T
Water Use Reduction

Fundamental Commissioni of the Bui

Minimum E Performance

Fundamental Man
Performance

On-Site Renewable

Enhanced Commission

Enhanced

Measurement and Verification

Green Power

S and Collection of bles
Bu Reuse-Maintain Existi W
Bu Reuse-Maintain
Construction Waste
Materials Reuse

Content

Materials

Renewable Materials

Certified Wood

Floors and Roof
Interior Nonstructural Elements

124

HHi—Ei—EHHHNmei-Emi—I

 

Prer 1
2
Credit 1
Credit 2
Credit 3.1
Credit 3.2
Credit 4.1
Credit 4.2
Credit 4.3
Credit 4.4
Credit 5
Credit 6.1
Credit 6.2
Credit 7.1
Credit 7.2
Credit 8.1
Credit 8.2

Credit 1.1
Credit 2

Credit 1

Table B. 2 Continued

Minimum IAQ Performance
Environmental Tobacco Smoke ET S Control
Outdoor Air Monitori
Increased Ventilation
Construction IAQ Plan-Du Construction
Construction IAQ Plan-Before Occu
Low-E Materials-Adhesives & Sealants
Materials-Paints &

Low-Em Materials-Ca
Low-Em Materia Wood &
Indoor Chemical & Pollutant Source Control
Controllabil of ems
Controllabi of ems-Thermal Comfort
Thermal Comfort
Thermal Comfort-Verification

& 75% of

& Views-Views for 90% of

ber Products

Innovation in
LEED Accredited Professional

C
=.
I'D
O.

HHHHI—‘HHHHHHHHHH

Certified

Silver

Gold

Platinum and above

 

125

Appendix C
Comparison Tables of LEED-NC Credits

Related to Electrical Contractors

126

Site Practices

SSpl Construction Activity Pollution Prevention

Has the same credit intent and requirements;

Table C.1: Comparison Table of SSp1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Same I Same
2 Related Credits
SSc5.1, 5.2 Site Development -
and SSc6.1, 6.2 Stormwater Design
3 Referenced Standard
2003 EPA Construction General Permit Storm Water Management for
Construction Activities, Chapter 3
4 Implementation
Additional: Providing a table to show
common strategies for controlling erosion
and sedimentation on construction
5 Timeline and Team
Identify the responsibility of the civil engineer -
or landscape architect about creating the
erosion and sedimentation control plan
during the design phase, and the general
contractor (GC)’s responsibility of
implementing the plan and maintaining the
control measures on-site
6 Calculations
No Calculation No Calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction submittal
Confirmation regarding the
compliance path taken by the project
8 Examples
Provide an example containing a project’s -
background and its control strategies and
description

 

 

127

 

Table C.1 Continued

 

 

 

 

9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations

 

Follow either the local erosion and -
sedimentation control standards and codes,
or the standards referenced in the Reference
Guideline

11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
LEED 2009 Reference Guideline suggests that -
the project team and groundskeeper should
create a maintenance plan for permanent
erosion control measures in order to prevent
future or recurring erosion

 

 

 

 

12 Resources

 

Same Same
13 Definitions
Additional: the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES), Stormwater
pollution prevention plan and Stormwater
runoff

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SSc5. l: Site Development—Protect or Restore Habitat

The same intent, but for requirements, add equal to or greater than 20% of the total
site area has native or adapted vegetation as an option for CASE 2—Previously Developed

Areas or Graded Sites.

Table C.2: Comparison Table of SSc5.1

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Same TSame
2 Related Credits

 

Using native vegetation on-site or as part of a -
vegetated roof may contribute to: SSc5.2,
SSc6.1, 6.2, SSc7.1, 7.2 and WEc1 Water-
Efficient Landscaping

 

 

 

 

 

128

Table C.2 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 Referenced Standard
No standards referenced I No standards referenced
4 Implementation
Additional: Providing the implementation of
the case containing both Greenfield and
previously developed areas
Suggest to assess the impact of building and
site development on resident and migratory
wildlife and determine the necessary
measures to reduce the threat that building
windows pose to birds
5 Timeline and Team
Suggest consulting the expertise that has -
site-specific experience—like landscape
architects, ecologists, environmental
engineers—during the site design process to
minimize the building footprint and
impervious areas
During construction, the superintendent or
responsible party should pay attention to the
protected area
6 Calculations
No Calculation in CASE 1 — Green field Sites No Calculation
Provide calculation in CASE 2 — Previously
Developed Areas or Graded Sites
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Site plans Provide the project site area, building
footprint area, and a narrative
describing the approach to this credit
8 Examples
Provide an example for each CASE with -
figure to illustrate
9 Exemplary Performance
May be awarded one innovation point by May be awarded one innovation point
restoring or protecting a minimum of 75% of by restoring or protecting a minimum
the site or 30% of the total site of 75% of the site
10 Regional Variations

 

 

Based on the local area’s condition, protect
and restore the appropriate local vegetation

 

 

129

 

Table C.2 Continued

 

and ecological features

 

11

Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

LEED 2009 Reference Guideline suggests to
coordinate with building operators and
landscape maintenance contractors or
groundskeeper to create a sustainable
landscape management plan

 

 

12

Resources

 

Additional: American Bird Conservancy, Birds
and Buildings Forum, and the Nature
Conservancy

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Biodiversity, Invasive plants,
Project boundary, and Retention ponds

 

 

MRc2: Construction Waste Management

Has same intent and combined as one credit in LEED 2009, which used to be two

 

 

 

 

credits in LEED-NC 2.2.
Table C.3: Comparison Table of MRc2
No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Same I Same
2 Related Credits

 

Reusing the existing building but not
achieving the MRc1 - Building Reuse, may
apply to this credit; If contaminated
substances are found, may be related to SSc3
- Brownfield Redevelopment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 Referenced Standard

No standards referenced I No standards referenced
4 Implementation

More details I
5 Timeline and Team

 

 

A construction waste management plan is
suggested to be created during the design

 

 

130

 

 

IN

N

Table C.3 Continued

 

phase after searching regional recycling
options, and GC and subcontractors’
responsibility is identified.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
Same Same
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Track and keep a summary log of all Complete the construction waste
construction waste calculation tables in the Submittal
Templates
8 Examples
Provide an example plan/outline of a project -
9 Exemplary Performance
May be awarded one innovation point by May be awarded one innovation point
achieving 95% of the total waste by achieving 95% of the total waste
10 Regional Variations
Introduce different materials’ recycling -
opportunities in common community and in
urban or rural areas
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
A challenge of managing and diverting -
construction waste is to ”indentify
appropriate entities to receive the diverse
waste types generated.” Future remodeling
policies for owners and own company’ s
polices are suggested to develop and
implement as an education program for all
employees.
12 Resources
Additional: Local government resources
13 Definitions

 

 

Additional:
Alternative daily cover

 

 

131

 

IEQc3. 1: Construction Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Management Plan-During

Construction

With the same intent, but changed the IAQ Guidelines from the 1995 version of

Occupied Buildings Under Construction to the 2nd Edition 2007, ANSI/SMACNA008-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2008.
Table C.4: Comparison Table of IEQc3.1
No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
More details I
2 Related Credits
Relate to IAQ management before -
occupancy: IEQc3.2, IEQc4 and lEQcS
3 Referenced Standard
Same I Same
4 Implementation
Same I Same
5 Timeline and Team
Well scheduling is necessary for this credit’ 5 -
aspects since they are related to the
demolition sequence, construction
procedures, and the installation of finished
materials. Subcontractors are given the IAQ
management plan, and are required to
follow the plan’s components. The Reference
Guideline also advises to establish a regular
photo log of the strategies.
6 Calculations
No Calculation No Calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Confirmation of the permanent
installation of air handling equipment
List all filtration media installed
during construction and confirm that
each was replaced prior to final
occupancy

 

 

 

 

 

132

Table C.4 Continued

 

Examples

 

Provide an example IAQ management plan of -
a project, including Goals and Scope,
SMACNA (the Sheet Metal and Air
Conditioning Contractors’ National
Association) Guideline, Responsible Party,
Guidance for Resource and Implementation,
Quality Assurance and Quality Control
Processes, and so on.

 

 

Exemplary Performance

 

Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance

 

 

10

Regional Variations

 

No RV applicable to this credit. -

 

11

Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

Advise to provide a copy of the IAQ -
management plan used during construction
to the facility manager for future alterations
or additions.

 

 

12

Resources

 

Additional: Indoor Air Pollution Report I

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional:
Indoor air quality, Minimum efficiency
reporting value (MERV)

 

 

 

IEQc3.2: Construction Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Manggement Plan — Before

Occupancy

With the same intent, but reduced the Forrnaldehyde’s Maximum Concentration from

50 to 27 in Option 2 - Air Testing.

Table C.5: Comparison Table of IEQc3.2

 

No.

LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2

 

 

Benefits and Issue to Consider

 

 

 

Environmental Issues I Community Issues

 

133

Table C.5 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 Related Credits
Related IAQ management: lEQc3.1; Some -
specified and installed materials may impact
air quality and the air quality testing results,
IEQc4 and lEQcS; on ventilation rates: lEQpl
and IEQc2
3 Referenced Standard
Same I Same
4 Implementation
Same I Same
5 Timeline and Team
The design phase includes the request which -
requires GC to develop and implement a
construction IAQ management plan. Conduct
the indoor air quality testing and/or a flush-
out per the construction IAQ management
plan as required as in the credit. (Provide the
advices on implementation of the flush-out
procedure and/or air quality testing during
design and construction phase.) Suggest
early coordination for the material
installation sequences between the
contractor and subcontractors to minimize or
avoid project delays.
6 Calculations
Formulas are provided No Calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
A written construction IAQ management plan Confirmation regarding the approach
taken by the project
*Provide explanations of five
chemical contaminants
8 Examples
Provide an example table of time for Flush- -
Out Options.
9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations

 

 

Suggest/consider the impact of regional

 

134

 

Table C.5 Continued

 

performance of HVAC system.

I-

 

11

Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

Advise to provide a copy of the IAQ
management plan used during construction
to the building operators for future
alterations or additions, and to use regular
IAQ testing to verify safe and healthful
conditions.

 

 

12

Resources

 

Same

I Same

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Off-gassing, Outdoor air, Thermal
comfort and ventilation

 

 

Products

8808: Light Pollution Reduction

With the same intent, but added requirements for both interior lighting and exterior

lighting. For interior lighting, added the percentage in Option 1, and time period

requirement in both Option 1 and 2. For exterior lighting, changed the ASI-IRAE/IESNA

Standard 901-2004 to 901-2007, and added specific zone information.

Table C.6: Comparison Table of SSc8

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Same I Same
2 Related Credits

 

 

For energy savings: EAc1 - Optimize Energy
Performance; automatic occupancy controls
of the interior lighting: IEOc 6.1 —
Controllability of Systems - Lighting.

 

 

135

 

 

Table C.6 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Same I Same
2 Related Credits
For energy savings: EAc1 - Optimize Energy -
Performance; automatic occupancy controls
of the interior lighting: IEQc 6.1 -
Controllability of Systems — Lighting.
3 Referenced Standard
ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007 ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1—2004
Provide a table of lighting power densities
for building exteriors
4 Implementation
Some new information is added based on the
changes of the credit requirements
5 Timeline and Team
Determine the environmental zone and -
consider local light requirements related to
this credit. During the construction
documents phase, the layout and compliance
of the exterior fixtures should be verified
6 Calculations
No Calculation for interior lighting For interior lighting, determine the
For exterior lighting, changed the Referenced direction of maximum luminous
Standards intensity from the published
photometric data
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
*Different from the v2.2 Follow the v2.2 Submittal Templates
8 Examples
Provide an example of exterior lighting -
power density and trespass assessment
including tables and figures to show
calculation and floodlight.
9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations

 

 

No RV applicable to this credit

 

136

 

 

TH

Table C.6 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
For exterior luminaries, suggest to -
implement a schedule and policy for group
re-lamping to help avoid lamp burnouts and
to minimize the labor costs associated with
spot re-lamping.
12 Resources
Additional: New England Light
Pollution advisory Group
13 Definitions
Additional: full-cutoff luminaire, Horizontal Additional: Angle of Maximum
footcandles, light trespass, safety and Candela and outdoor lighting zone
comfort light levels, shielding, sky glow, and definitions
vertical footcandles

 

EApZ: Minimum Energy Performance

“To reduce environmental and economic impacts associated with excessive energy

use” is added to the prerequisite’s intent. For the prerequisite requirements, provides

three options: Option l—Whole Building Simulation; Option 2—Prescriptive Compliance

Path: ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design and Option 3-Prescriptive Compliance Path:

Advanced Buildings Core Performance Guide.

Table C.7: Comparison Table of EAp2

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 LEED-NC 2.2

1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Environmental and Economic Issues

2 Related Credits

 

 

For energy use: EAc1 - Optimize Energy
Performance, SSc7.2 — Heat Island Effect and
SSc8 - Light Pollution Reduction; For
renewable energy use: EAc2 — On-site
Renewable Energy and EAc6 — Green Power;
For building energy performance and IEQ
issues: IEQp1, IEQc1, IEQcZ, lEOc6, IEQc7 and

 

 

137

 

 

Table C.7 Continued

 

IEQc8; for water use, WEc3 - Water Use
Reduction.

 

Referenced St

andard

 

ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007: Energy
Standard for Building Except Low-Rise
Residential

ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for
Small Office Building 2004

ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for
Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings
2008

ENERGY STAR Program, Target Finder Rating

ASH RAE/ IESNA Standard 90.1-2004

 

Tool

 

Implementation

 

Describe strategies under Section 5-11 of
ASHRAE 90.1-2007
Provide additional strategies

Describe strategies under Section 5-
10 of ASHRAE 90.1-2004

 

Timeline and

Team

 

The energy simulation modeling should be
started by the project team in the early
design phase to gain insight for design
decisions and a record of energy cost
reductions.

 

Calculations

 

Follow the calculation and documentation
methodology in ASHRAE 90.1-2007

Area Calculations

Lighting Power Calculations

Follow the calculation and
documentation methodology in
ASHRAE 90.1-2004

 

 

Documentation

 

 

 

LEED-Online documentation

ASHRAE compliance

The climate zone

The calculation of energy use

A list of energy end uses for the project
Using the final report of annual energy cost,
create computer energy simulation and/or
assemble documentation to demonstrate the

Design Submittal

Follow the v2.2 Submittal Templates
Confirmation of the project that
meets the requirements

 

project meets the requirements

 

138

 

Tr

 

Table C.7 Continued

 

Examples

 

Provide an example of a 3-D building model.

I-

 

Exemplary Performance

 

Not eligible for Exemplary Performance

Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance

 

 

10

Regional Variations

 

Different climate types in different climate
zones and subzones may affect the project’s
minimum envelope and glazing property.

 

 

11

Operations and M

aintenance

 

Provide strategies to maintain efforts to
support and promote energy efficiency.

 

 

12

Resources

 

Additional: US. EPA, Combined Heat and
Power Partnership

 

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Baseline building performance,
Combined heat and power (CHP),
economizer, energy simulation model,
ENERGY STAR, Interior lighting power
allowance, Lighting power density, and
Proposed building performance

No Definition

 

 

EAcl: Optimize Energy Performance

Increase the available points to 19. Has the same intent. For the credit requirements,

changed the minimum energy cost savings percentage for each point, provided a new

path for one of the options, and required to use the later reference standard, e. g.

ASHRAE Standard 90.1 -2007.

Table C.8: Comparison Table of EAc1

 

No.

LEED 2009

LEED-NC 2.2

 

 

Benefits and Issue

to Consider

 

 

Add more information about Environmental
Issues

 

 

139

 

 

 

Table C.8 Continued

 

Related Credits

 

For energy use: EAc1 - Optimize Energy
Performance, SSc7.2 - Heat Island Effect and
SSc8 - Light Pollution Reduction; For
renewable energy use: EAcZ - On-site
Renewable Energy and EAc6 - Green Power;
For building energy performance and IEQ
issues: IEQpl, IEch, IEQc2, IEQc6, IEQc7 and
IEQc8; for water use, WEc3 - Water Use
Reduction.

 

 

Referenced Standard

 

ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007:
Energy Standard for Building Except Low-Rise
Residential, and Informative Appendix G,
Performance Rating Method

ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for
Small Office Building 2006

Additional: ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design
Guide for Retail Buildings 2006

ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for
Small Warehouses and Self Storage Buildings
2008

New Building Institute, Advanced Buildings
Core Performance Guide

 

ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004
ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design
Guide for Small Office Building 2004

 

Implementation

 

Provide the referenced standard for new
path to follow;

Provide cases and calculation of benefit for
Combined Heat and Power (CHP);

And introduce the district energy systems

 

 

Timeline and Team

 

 

 

Implement energy analysis early in the design
process;

At the end of the schematic design phase ,
finish a simplified model analysis and
understand the overall energy performance
of the project;

Develop a detailed energy model for project
review and construction documents;

Involve energy analyst, architect, mechanical

 

 

140

 

Table C.8 Continued

 

engineer, LEED consultant, and
commissioning authority to form a team for
the energy analysis and they should work
closely

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
Provide a form to explain the modeling
requirements for baseline and proposed case
building;
Provide some strategies with exceptional
modeling requirements, exceptional
calculation method, common mistakes made
using the performance rating method, and
the equation for calculating the percentage
improvement
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
ASHRAE compliance Follow the Submittal Templates
The climate zone shown in the LEED v 2.2 Reference
The calculation of energy use Guide
A list of energy end uses for the project
Using the final report of annual energy cost,
create a computer energy simulation and/or
assemble documentation to demonstrate the
project meets the requirements
8 Examples
Provide an example of Option 1 - -
Whole Building simulation, and provide
tables shown as documentation submittal
format
9 Exemplary Performance
One Exemplary Performance point is One Exemplary Performance point is
available via having equal to or more than available via having equal to or more
50% for new building and 46% for existing than 45.5% for new building and
building as the building’s minimum energy 38.5% for existing building as the
cost saving ; building’s minimum energy cost
No available point for Option 2 and 3 saving ;
10 Regional Variations

 

 

Has been incorporated in ASHRAE 90.1-2007

 

141

 

 

Tn

Table C.8 Continued

 

11 Operation and Maintenance Considerations
Ensure the building system’s function and -
track energy use

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 Resources
Same Same
13 Definitions
Additional: district energy system, Additional: Interior Lighting Power

downstream equipment, energy simulation Allowance,
model/energy model, plug load, and
upstream equipment.

 

 

 

 

 

EAc2: Onsite Renewable Energy

With the same intent, but increases the available points and changes the percentage of

use for the renewable energy and its corresponding points.

Table C.9: Comparison Table of EAc2

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Same I Same
2 Related Credits

 

The usage of renewable energy generation -
equipment will affect the energy
performance and the commissioning.
Therefore, its related credits include EAp1,
EAp2, EAc1, EAc5 and EAc6.

3 Referenced Standard

ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007: Energy ASH RAE/ IESNA Standard 90.1-2004
Standard for Building Except Low-Rise
Residential

 

 

 

 

4 Implementation

 

Add more information about renewable
energy system
5 Timeline and Team

 

 

The project team, with the owner, architect -
and engineer, should estimate the potential
energy use in order to identify the renewable

 

 

 

 

 

142

Table C.9 Continued

 

energy system with sufficient capacity, and
consider the management of the extra
energy produced.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
Use the same calculation strategy in EAc1 to Same
calculate the amount of energy cost offset
Or calculate it based on the Commercial
Building Energy Consumption Survey
database for the building type
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Design Submittal
Maintain documentation of any incentive Describe the source of the annual
program on the renewable energy system energy cost information and provide
the appropriate energy values and
costs.
8 Examples
No example T-
9 Exemplary Performance
Achieve an innovation credit for exemplary Achieve an innovation credit for
performance by illustrating the on-site exemplary performance by illustrating
renewable energy contributes 15% or more the on-site renewable energy
of the annual building energy cost contributes 7.5% or more of the
annual building energy cost
10 Regional Variations
To choose the best renewable source, one -
needs to consider region element, like
climate, geography, and location
11 Operation and Maintenance Considerations
Provide the information of using -
maintenance systems to the building owner,
maintenance personnel, and occupants. The
building operator should be provided with
the manufacturer’ 5 recommendations for
operating and maintenance procedures.
12 Resources

 

 

Additional: US. Department of Energy,
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,
Renewable Energy

 

 

143

 

 

 

 

I"

 

Table C.9 Continued

 

13

 

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Boifuel-based systems, Biomass,
District energy system, Downstream
equipment, Geothermal energy, Geothermal
heating systems, Green-e, Life-cycle cost
analysis, On-site renewable energy,
Renewable energy, and Upstream equipment

Additional: The Environmental
Attributes of Green Power and
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)

 

 

EAcS: Measurement grid Verification

Increase another two points for this credit. With the same intent, but list Option D:

Calibrated Simulation and Option B: Energy Conservation Measure Isolation separately,

and provide more explanation.

 

 

 

 

Table C.10: Comparison Table of EAcS
No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider
Same I Same
2 Related Credits

 

The implementation of a measurement and
verification (M&V) plan may have a positive
impact on the project’s energy performance,
and it is a basic device in commissioning.
Therefore, its related credits include EAp1,
EAc1, EAcZ; EAp3 and EAc3

 

 

 

 

 

3 Referenced Standard
International Performance Measurement & International Performance
Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Volume III, EVO Measurement & Verification Protocol
30000.1-2006 Concepts and Options for (IPMVP) Volume III: Concepts and
Determining Energy Savings in New Options for Determining Energy
Construction, January, 2006 Savings in New Construction, April,

2003
4 Implementation

 

 

Add more information for the
implementation of Option B and Option D

 

 

144

 

 

Table C.10 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Timeline and Team
Provide a table showing the M&V activities in -
different project phases with an additional
narrative introduction
6 Calculations
IPMVP Volume III provides basic formulas Same
and quantitative guidelines for error
estimation and tolerance for various M&V
options
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Provide diagram of measurement meters’
locations
8 Examples
No example -
9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations
No RV in the M&V method, but different -
climate may lead to a focus on different
types of energy conservation
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
Provide the original and recalibrated energy -
use models to the building operators, and
may use submeters to help measuring major
energy end uses
12 Resources
Additional: ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
13 Definitions
Additional: District energy system,
Downstream equipment, Upstream
equipment and Verification

 

 

 

IEch: Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring

With the same intent, but changed the referenced standard to the ASHRAE 62.1-2007

and other minor changes of the requirements.

145

Table C.11: Comparison Table of IEch

 

No.

LEED 2009

LEED-NC 2.2

 

Benefits and Issue to Consider

 

More information on Environmental and
economic issues

 

 

Related Credits

 

The following credits may benefit from
monitoring of airflow: IEQcZ, EAp1, EAc3,
EAcS; to reduce the outdoor’ 5 C02
concentrations, related to SSc4 — Alternative
Transportation

 

 

Referenced Sta

nda rd

 

American National Standards Institute
(ANSI)/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2007:
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

 

No referenced standard

 

Implementation

 

Same

Same

 

Timeline and Team

 

”The placement of outdoor air sensors and
intake should be coordinated with the design
team before construction documents are
prepared. Engage a mechanical engineer to
work on the issues of outdoor air delivery
monitoring no later than the design
development phase.”

 

 

Calculations

 

No calculation I

No calculation

 

Documentation

 

LEED-Online documentation
Incorporate airflow monitors and C02
sensors into floor plans etc.
Commission ventilation systems
Check alarm systems

Manufacture guideline

 

Design Submittal

 

Examples

 

No example

 

 

Exemplary Performance

 

 

Not eligible for Exemplary Performance

 

Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance

 

146

 

Table C.11 Continued

 

10

Regional Variations

 

Different local and regional factors may
fluctuate the outdoor C02 concentrations.

 

 

11

Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

Provide the monitoring system information
including the operation sequences and
recommendations for corrective actions to
the building owner and facility manager.
Regularly inspecting the CO; monitors,
airflow monitoring stations, and recalibrating
sensors is suggested.

 

 

12

Resources

 

Same

I Same

 

 

13

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Breathing zone, Demand control
ventilation, Densely occupied space, HVAC
systems, Indoor air quality (IAQ), Occupants,
Outdoor air, Return air, Thermal comfort and
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

 

 

IEQc4. 1: Low-emitting Materials — Adhesives grid Sealants

Has the same intent and requirements.

Table C.12: Comparison Table of IEQc4.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

More information on Environmental and

economic issues
2 Related Credits

 

 

The credits related to this credit’ 5 intent
including: IEQc4.2, IEQc4.3, and IEQc4.4;
same discussion in this credit is also the
contractor orientation training which related
to IEQc3.1 and IEQc3.2; the source uses may
affect the IAQ which related to IEQp2 and
IEQc5

 

 

147

 

 

Ti»

 

Table C.12 Continued

 

Referenced Standard

 

South Coast Air Quality Management District
(SCAM D) Amendment to South Coast Rule
1168, VOC Limits, effective January 7, 2005
Green Seal Standard 36 (GS-36), Effective
October 19, 2000

South Coast Rule #1168 October 3,
2003 Amendment by the South Coast
Air Quality Management District

Same on the second one

 

Implementation

 

Composition limits

Supplemental Information which
includes the introduction of the
design phase, construction phase, and
Composition Limits

 

 

Timeline and Team

 

Clear statement of the credit requirement is
needed in the project specification during
pre-bid meetings and awarding contracts

 

 

Calculations

 

VOC Budget Methodology

No calculation

 

Documentation

 

LEED-Online documentation
Track the amount of product used

Construction Submittal

 

 

Example

 

No example

I-

 

Exemplary Performance

 

Not eligible for Exemplary Performance

Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance

 

 

10

Regional Variations

 

No Regional Variations

IT

 

11

Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

Use low-emitting materials for building
operations, repairs, or alterations. Provide
repair teams and contractors with a list of
compliant products used during the initial
construction process.

 

 

12

Resources

 

Same

I Same

 

 

13

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Architectural nonporous sealant
primer, Architectural porous sealant,
Contaminants,

IAQ, Occupants, Off-gassing and Ozone (03)

 

 

148

 

IEQc4.2: Low-emitting Materials — flintsjand Coatings

Has the same intent. Instead of providing the number of VOC content Limit, the

Reference Guideline is permissible to use a VOC budget.

Table C.13: Comparison Table of IEQc4.2

 

 

 

 

No. LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2
1 Benefits and Issue to Consider

Same as IEQc4.1 I
2 Related Credits

 

The credits related to this credit’s intent -
including: IEQc4.1, IEQc4.3, and IEQc4.4;
same discussion in this credit is also the
contractor orientation training which is
related to IEQc3.1 and IEQc3.2; the source
uses may affect the IAQ which related to
IEQp2 and IEQCS.

 

 

3 Referenced Standard

 

Green seal Standard GS-11 Same
Green Seal Standard 36 (GS-36),

South Coast Air Quality Management District
(SCAMD) Amendment to South Coast Rule
1113, Architectural Coatings

 

 

4 Implementation

 

Composition limits Supplemental Information which
includes the introduction of the

Composition Limits

 

 

5 Timeline and Team

design phase, construction phase, and

 

Clear statement of the credit requirement is -
needed in the project specification during
pre-bid meetings and awarding contracts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Calculations
VOC Budget Methodology No calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Track the amount of product used
8 Examples
No example I -

 

149

 

Table C.13 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9 Exemplary Performance
Not eligible for Exemplary Performance Not eligible for Exemplary
Performance
10 Regional Variations
No Regional Variations -
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
Use low-emitting materials for building —
operations, repairs, or alterations. Provide
repair teams and contractors with a list of
compliant products used during the initial
construction process
12 Resources
Same I Same
13 Definitions
Additional:
IAQ, Flat Coatings, Not-flat Coatings and
VOCs

 

 

“Value-Added” Opportunity

EAp3 Fundamerfil Commissioning of the Building Energy Systems

Has the same intent and requirements.

Table C.14: Comparison Table of EAp3

 

No.

LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2

 

Benefits and Issue to Consider

 

Add environmental issues I

 

Related Credits

 

The commissioning may affect the following -
credits: SSc8, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3, EAc1,
EAc2, EAcS, lEQpl, IEch, IEQcZ, lEQcS,
lEQc6 and IEQc7; and the rigor and
verification of commissioning: EAc3 -
Enhanced Commissioning

 

 

 

Referenced Standard

 

 

No referenced standard No referenced standard

 

150

 

 

Table C.14 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 Implementation
Commissioning Scope Implementation + Timeline and Team
in LEED 2009
5 Timeline and Team
The steps explanation section in LEED-NC -
v2.2, and combine with the steps for EAc3
6 Calculations
No calculation I No calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Updated Cx plan at milestones Provide the CxA’s information
Check systems which should be in the scope Confirm the completeness of the 6
of Cx required tasks
Confirmation of CxA’s experience on at least
2 building projects
8 Examples
Provide two examples of the -
interconnectedness of the building
commissioning documents and a summary
report outline
9 Exemplary Performance
No exemplary performance point available No exemplary performance point
available
10 Regional Variations
”The significance of commissioning tasks may -
vary with the climate.” And ”Regional
climates tend to drive the selection of
systems and the associated commissioning
and maintenance decisions.”
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations

 

 

Based on the Cx process and outcomes,
documents should be developed for helping
facility managers continue the design intent
and equipment specifications while running
the building. These documents should
include the building operating plan, systems
narrative, sequence of operations,
preventive maintenance plan, and
commissioning report

 

 

151

 

Table C.14 Continued

 

12

Resources

 

Additional: Lawrence Berkeley National Same
Laboratory, The Cost-Effectiveness of
Commercial Buildings Commissioning: A
meta—Analysis of Existing Buildings and New
Construction in the United states and Oregon
Office of Energy, Commissioning for Better
Buildings in Oregon

 

 

13

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Commissioning process, district
energy system, Downstream equipment,
Enhanced commissioning, Fundamental
commissioning, Upstream equipment, and
Verification

 

 

EAc3 Enhanced Commissioning

Has the same intent and requirements.

Table C.15: Comparison Table of EAc3

 

No.

LEED 2009 I LEED-NC 2.2

 

Benefits and Issue to Consider

 

Add environmental issues I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 Related Credits

The commissioning may affect the following -

credits: SSc8, WEc1, WEc2, WEc3, EAc1,

EAc2, EAcS, IEQp1, IEch, IEQCZ, lEQcS,

IEQcG and IEQc7; and the credit explained

the minimum threshold of commissioning

activities and the rigor and verification of

commissioning: EAp1 - Fundamental

Commissioning of Building Energy Systems.
3 Referenced Standard

No referenced standard I No referenced standard
4 Implementation

Commissioning Scope Implementation + Timeline and Team

in LEED 2009

 

 

152

 

 

Table C.15 Continued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Timeline and Team
Refer to EAp1 I -
6 Calculations
No calculation LNo calculation
7 Documentation
LEED-Online documentation Construction Submittal
Updated Cx plan at milestones Provide the CxA’s information
Check systems which should be in the scope Confirm the completeness of the 6
of Cx required tasks
Confirmation of CxA’s experience on at least
2 building projects
Create an operator trainings schedule
Retain a copy of the CxA’s design review,
responses, and confirmation
Retain copies of the Owner’ 5 project
requirements, basis of design,
commissioning specifications, commissioning
report, and systems manual
8 Examples
No example I -
9 Exemplary Performance
Conduct comprehensive envelope No exemplary performance point
commissioning may be considered for an available '
innovation credit
10 Regional Variations
Refer to EAp1 I -
11 Operations and Maintenance Considerations
Refer to EAp1 I -
12 Resources
Additional: Lawrence Berkeley National Same

 

Laboratory, The Cost-Effectiveness of
Commercial Buildings Commissioning: A
meta-Analysis of Existing Buildings and New
Construction in the United states and Oregon
Office of Energy, Commissioning for Better
Buildings in Oregon

 

 

153

 

Table C.15 Continued

 

 

13

Definitions

 

 

Additional: Commissioning Authority,

Commissioning process, district energy
system, Downstream equipment, Enhanced

commissioning, Fundamental

commissioning, Upstream equipment, and

Verification

 

 

154

 

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