Learn which energy sources qualify as green power under LEED standards. Detailed explanation of biomass, clean coal, natural gas and nuclear power.
Table of Contents
Question
Which of the following power sources are considered green power?
A. Clean coal
B. Natural gas
C. Nu clear
D. Biomass
Answer
D. Biomass
Explanation
Of the power sources listed, only biomass is considered a green power source under LEED standards.
Green power refers to renewable energy sources that have the highest environmental benefits and lowest negative impacts. The U.S. Green Building Council, which administers the LEED rating systems, defines green power as electricity produced from solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, eligible biomass, and low-impact small hydroelectric sources.
Biomass refers to organic material from plants and animals that can be burned to generate electricity. Certain forms of sustainably produced biomass, such as untreated wood waste, agricultural crops and waste, animal waste, and landfill gas, qualify as green power. However, treated wood and municipal solid waste are excluded.
The other options – clean coal, natural gas, and nuclear – are not considered renewable green power sources:
- “Clean coal” refers to technologies that attempt to reduce the environmental impact of burning coal, but coal itself is still a fossil fuel that emits greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Coal does not qualify as green power.
- Natural gas is a cleaner-burning fossil fuel compared to coal or oil. However, it is still a non-renewable resource that releases carbon dioxide when combusted. Natural gas is not classified as green power.
- Nuclear energy is a low-carbon power source, as nuclear fission does not directly emit greenhouse gases. However, nuclear power has other potential environmental impacts and safety risks. It also relies on finite uranium fuel. As a result, nuclear does not meet the definition of renewable green power under LEED.
In summary, biomass can be considered a green power source if it meets certain sustainability criteria, while clean coal, natural gas, and nuclear power do not qualify as green power for LEED purposes. The LEED rating systems incentivize and reward the use of true renewable energy sources.
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