LEED v5 BD+C Rating System_November 2025_clean - Page 069

Extracted Content

Water Efficiency Credit

ENHANCED WATER EFFICIENCY

WEc2 New Construction (1–8 points) Core and Shell (1–7 points)

INTENT

To reduce potable water consumption and the associated energy consumption and carbon emissions required to treat and distribute water, and to reward use of alternative water sources that preserve potable water resources.

REQUIREMENTS: NEW CONSTRUCTION

Achievement Pathways	Points
New Construction	1–8
Option 1. Whole-Project Water Use	1–8
OR
Option 2. Fixture and Fittings–Calculated Reduction	1–3
AND/OR
Option 3. Appliance and Process Water	1–2
AND/OR
Option 4. Outdoor Water Use	1–2
Path 1. No Irrigation	2
OR
Path 2. Efficient Irrigation	1–2
AND/OR
Option 5. Optimize Process Water Use	1–2
Path 1. Limit Cooling Tower Cycles	1–2
OR
Path 2. Optimize Water Use for Cooling	1–2
OR
Path 3. Process Water Use	1–2
AND/OR
Option 6. Water Reuse	1–2
Path 1. Reuse-Ready System	1
OR
Path 2. Alternative Water Sources	2

Implement a combination of the following strategies for a maximum of 8 points. Projects may either attempt Option 1 or any combination of Options 2–6.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, November 2025 Edition 62