A new regulation by the U.S. Department of Energy mandates which private-sector green building certifications can be used in federal buildings to meet energy-efficiency standards. The rule, which goes into effect Nov. 13, says that when agencies use green building certification systems to meet federal sustainability standards, they must choose a system that verifies enhanced energy and water efficiency.
LEED Silver may be used, and in some instances, the Green Globes program may be substituted.
The private-sector certifications do not replace the government’s green building standards, but as required under 2007’s major energy law, the regulation provides federal agencies and private real estate companies an alternative way of certifying compliance. The department is allowing LEED Silver under the rule because Congress dictated it in the law.
A requirement provides for building re-assessments at least every four years to ensure energy and water savings continue well beyond the initial building opening or retrofit, the agency says. DOE will provide a webinar discussing the rule’s requirements in November.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
Denver voters approve green roof mandate
Buildings of 25,000 sf or larger required to install vegetative roof or PVs.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
USGBC adopts ‘RELi’ resilient building and design standard
The standard prescribes methods for designing more resilient buildings and communities.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
Updated material transparency web site and hazardous building materials list unveiled
Improved versions of tools aimed at use of healthier construction supplies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 16, 2017
White roofing isn’t always the best choice
Adverse effects include heat reflection onto nearby walls.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
U.S. finalizes tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber
The duties would add 20% or more to cost if trade negotiators can’t find common ground.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
NBI stretch code a tool for accelerating efficiency standards
It provides a strategy to leapfrog minimum code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2017
California bill would require purchase of low-carbon construction products
Contractors would have to source products based on greenhouse gas impact, not price, on state projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 13, 2017
New AIA contract document for facility support services released
Updated form intended to be used with owner-architect agreements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2017
NIBS, NBI issue guidance document to help communities achieve energy goals
Outcome-based codes compliance path looks at building’s actual performance.
Codes and Standards | Nov 7, 2017
Underwriters Laboratories launches wellness certification
First certification program that verifies products’ compliance with the WELL Building Standard.
