855773644-LEED-v5-BD-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition - Page 301

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PATH 3. ENERGY SIMULATION (1–3 POINTS)

Demonstrate a performance index calculated per ASHRAE 90.1-2019 or later from Normative Appendix G’s Performance Rating Method, replacing all references to cost with the sum of building peak coincident heating loads and building peak coincident cooling loads.

Points are awarded according to Table 4.

Table 4. Points for performance index for peak heating and cooling loads

Performance index	Points
0.5	1
0.4	2
0.3	3

REQUIREMENTS EXPLAINED: NEW CONSTRUCTION

The credit rewards reduced peak heating and peak cooling loads, primarily achieved through enhanced building envelope performance and lower ventilation loads.

This limits strain on the grid during peak summer and winter operations when grid capacity and associated grid emissions are highest.

Options 1, 2, and 3 are distinct peak thermal load reduction strategies. Option 4 rewards overall peak thermal load reductions achieved from the strategies referenced in Options 1–3 and any further peak load reduction measures employed for the project.

For credit eligibility, the peak thermal load reduction measures designed for the building must be fully implemented during construction. The construction phase verification is required to confirm measured air leakage (Options 1 and 4), balanced ventilation (Options 1 and 4), and reduced thermal bridging (Options 3).

New construction projects may apply any combination of Options 1–4 for up to five points.

For All Options

The building envelope must comply with ASHRAE 90.1 prescriptive method requirements as a pre-condition for all options.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 291