Learn which ASHRAE standard is used to evaluate baseline building performance for benchmarking purposes on the LEED Green Associate certification exam. Detailed explanation provided.
Table of Contents
Question
For benchmarking purposes, a baseline building performance is evaluated (by means of energy simul-ation model), as defined in
A. ASHRAE 55-2010
B. ASHRAE 52.2-2007
C. ASHRAE 62 1-2010
D. ASHRAE 90.1-2010
Answer
D. ASHRAE 90.1-2010
Explanation
ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Appendix G is the referenced standard for defining the baseline building performance for energy simulation modeling in LEED v4 for Building Design and Construction. The baseline building is a hypothetical building that represents the minimum energy performance required by ASHRAE 90.1-2010, which is a standard for energy efficiency in buildings.
The baseline building is used as a benchmark to compare the proposed design of the project and to calculate the percentage of energy cost savings achieved by the project. The baseline building performance is evaluated by following the procedures and assumptions specified in Appendix G of ASHRAE 90.1-2010, such as building envelope, lighting, HVAC systems, service water heating, and renewable energy.
The other options are not relevant to the question, as they are standards for different aspects of green building, such as thermal comfort (ASHRAE 55-2010), air filtration (ASHRAE 52.2-2007), and ventilation (ASHRAE 62.1-2010).
For benchmarking purposes in LEED, a baseline building performance is evaluated using an energy simulation model as defined in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 – Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
ASHRAE 90.1 provides minimum requirements for energy-efficient design of most buildings and offers guidance for determining baseline building performance. The standard covers building envelope, HVAC systems, lighting, and other equipment.
The other ASHRAE standards mentioned are not directly used for establishing baseline building performance for benchmarking:
- ASHRAE 55 covers thermal environmental conditions for human occupancy
- ASHRAE 52.2 pertains to testing general ventilation air-cleaning devices
- ASHRAE 62.1 addresses ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality
Therefore, when evaluating baseline building performance through energy modeling for LEED benchmarking, the key standard referenced is ASHRAE 90.1-2010. Understanding its role is essential for the LEED Green Associate exam and sustainable building practices.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.