LEED v5 BD+C Rating System_November 2025_clean - Page 080

Extracted Content

PATH 2. OPTIMIZE WATER USE FOR COOLING (1–3 POINTS)

To be eligible for Path 2, the baseline system designated for the building using ASHRAE 90.1– 2019 or 90.1–2022, Appendix G, Table G3.1.1–3, must include a cooling tower (systems 7, 8, 11, 12, and 13).

Achieve increasing levels of cooling tower water efficiency beyond a water-cooled chiller system with axial variable-speed fan cooling towers having a maximum drift of 0.002% of recirculated water volume and three cooling tower cycles. Points are awarded according to Table 20.

Table 20. Points for Reducing Annual Water Use Compared to Water-Cooled Chiller System

Percentage Reduction	Points
25%	1
50%	2
100%	3

Projects whose cooling is provided by district cooling systems are eligible to achieve Path 2 if the district cooling system complies with the preceding requirements.

OR

PATH 3. PROCESS WATER USE (1–3 POINTS)

Demonstrate that the project is using at minimum 20% alternative water to meet process water demand for 1 point, using at minimum 30% alternative water to meet process water demand for 2 points, or using at minimum 40% alternative water to meet process water demand for 3 points. Ensure that alternative water is of sufficient quality for its intended end use.

Process water uses eligible for achievement of Path 3 must represent at least 10% of total building regulated water use and may not include water used for cooling.

Projects served by district systems are eligible to achieve Path 3 if the district system complies with minimum thresholds for alternative water use.

AND/OR

Option 6. Water Reuse

PATH 1. REUSE-READY SYSTEM (1 POINT)

Install a water supply system to allow the supply of reclaimed or alternative water to reach one or more of the following end uses. Space shall be provided for treatment equipment as applicable to end uses.

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, November 2025 Edition 73