Credit 1- Optimize Energy Performance
In order for your building to become NC certified, you must fulfill a minimum of 25 points from the allocated credits. EA1 usually has the most impact, potentially earning a project up to 10 points. The has recently made it mandatory to achieve a minimum of two energy points. The defines the intent of the credit as “achieving increasing level of energy performance above the baseline in the prerequisite standard to reduce environmental and economic impacts associated with excessive energy use.” The mechanical engineer must decide which of the 3 paths the project should take to calculate the building’s energy performance: Whole Building Energy Simulation, Prescriptive Compliance Path or Prescriptive Compliance Path for small office buildings.
The most common strategies to optimize energy performance are improving equipment efficiency and reducing the energy load. Greentorch’s lights and exit signs can both contribute to reducing the amount of energy used in the building. With a 90% reduction in energy consumption compared to incandescent lights, our products can make a significant impact in achieving status and points toward EA1.
(Source: -NC 2. 2 Reference Guide)