6) Energy and Atmosphere (84)

What is the median payback period for the commissioning of existing buildings? A. 0.7 years B. 1 year C. 1.5 years D. 2.8 years

A. 0.7 years This is Correct. Commissioning can be expensive but, compared to the savings it achieves over time, it's one of the best investments a building owner can make. There are many studies that show the benefits of commissioning with examples of installation errors that cost building owners thousands of dollars a year unnecessarily. A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found the following: "For existing buildings, we found median commissioning costs of $0.27/ft2, whole-building energy savings of 15%, and payback times of 0.7 years. For new construction, median commissioning costs were $1.00/ft2 (0.6 % of total construction costs), yielding a median payback time of 4.8 years (excluding quantified non-energy impacts).

Which project would NOT be eligible for LEED certification? A. A new building project that uses no refrigerants B. A new building project that uses hydrocarbons (HCs) as refrigerants C. A new building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants D. An existing building project that phases out the use of CFC-based refrigerants no later than 5 years after the project is completed

A. A new building project that uses no refrigerants The use of no refrigerants is preferred when possible. B. A new building project that uses hydrocarbons (HCs) as refrigerants Hydrocarbons (HCs) are a group of refrigerants that are a type of natural refrigerant. Examples of hydrocarbons include propane, butane, ethane, isobutene, and isopentane. C. A new building project that uses CFC-based refrigerants New buildings cannot use CFC-based refrigerants. This is called Fundamental Refrigerant Management in LEED. D. An existing building project that phases out the use of CFC-based refrigerants no later than 5 years after the project is completed For existing buildings with CFC-based refrigerants, a phase out plan must be in place that eliminates all CFC-based refrigerants within 5 years of project completion. For such projects, the refrigerant leakage rate must be reduced to no more than 5% each year.

What does a carbon offset represent? A. A tradable commodity representing proof that a unit of electricity was generated from a renewable resource B. A unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced, avoided, or sequestered to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere. C. The energy consumption divided by the number of square feet in a building D. The primary measure of energy consumption associated with buildings

A. A tradable commodity representing proof that a unit of electricity was generated from a renewable resource This defines an REC. B. A unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced, avoided, or sequestered to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere. This is the correct definition. C. The energy consumption divided by the number of square feet in a building This defines energy use intensity. D. The primary measure of energy consumption associated with buildings This is not correct.

A developer is considering pursuing LEED for an eight-story, multi-family residential project. How would the baseline building performance be determined? A. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 B. By the project obtaining a HERS index C. By obtaining an ENERGY STAR for Homes rating D. By using the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager

A. By calculations made using ASHRAE 90.1 This is Correct. In LEED BD+C projects use ASHRAE 90.1 to determine the baseline building performance. B. By the project obtaining a HERS index HERS index is for LEED for Homes and Multifamily Lowrise projects. This question indicates that the project is an eight-story residential building, so LEED BD+C: Multifamily Midrise would be used. C. By obtaining an ENERGY STAR for Homes rating LEED for Homes minimum energy performance requires meeting the requirements of ENERGY STAR for Homes. D. By using the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager can be used to compare buildings of similar size and function (office to office, for example).

After a building is completed and occupied, how can energy demand be reduced? A. By opening and closing shades to control solar energy B. By purchasing environmentally preferable cleaning supplies C. By conducting routine waste audits D. By encouraging occupants to stagger work hours

A. By opening and closing shades to control solar energy This is Correct. The use of free energy can contribute to reducing energy demand during normal operations and maintenance of a building: - Interior shades to control heat gain and lighting levels - Operable windows to control natural ventilation B. By purchasing environmentally preferable cleaning supplies This is good for the environment but does nothing to reduce energy demand. C. By conducting routine waste audits Waste audits help reduce ongoing waste by finding areas that could be improved upon. D. By encouraging occupants to stagger work hours This spreads out the demand, it does not reduce it.

Approximately 50% of chillers in existing buildings use what refrigerant? A. CFC-11 B. HCFC-22 C. HFC-23 D. NH3

A. CFC-11 CFC-11 is used in chillers for about 50% of existing buildings. Nowadays it is encouraged to replace these systems with newer and more efficient systems that use more environmentally friendly refrigerants. Doing so would save money in the long term.

What has a long atmospheric life that causes harm to the ozone layer? A. CFCs B. NH3 C. HCs D. HCFCs

A. CFCs CFCs are refrigerants that were banned because they lead to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer. B. NH3 NH3 is ammonia, a natural refrigerant. C. HCs HC stands for hydrocarbons, a group of refrigerants benign to the atmosphere. D. HCFCs HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential (ODP) (compared to CFCs) but high global warming potential.

Which of the following refrigerant is banned under the Montreal Protocol? A. CFCs B. Propane C. Isopentane D. HFCs

A. CFCs This is correct. CFCs were banned under the Montreal Protocol in 1995. B. Propane C. Isopentane Isopentane is hydrocarbon (HC) and a type of natural refrigerant. D. HFCs HFC (HydroFluoroCarbons) are not covered in the Montreal Protocol. These refrigerants have low Ozone Depletion Potential but typically high Global Warming Potential.

What statement is true regarding ChloroFluoroCarbons (CFCs) and HydroChloroFluoroCarbons (HCFCs)? A. CFCs are being phased-out under the Montreal Protocol while HCFCs are banned under the Montreal Protocol B. CFCs have a greater global warming potential (GWP) than HCFCs C. The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of HCFCs and CFCs is about the same D. LEED encourages replacing CFC or halon-based fire suppression systems with HCFCs

A. CFCs are being phased-out under the Montreal Protocol while HCFCs are banned under the Montreal Protocol CFCs were banned under the Montreal Protocol in 1995. HCFCs are being phased-out under the Montreal Protocol with a 90% phase-out in 2015 and a 100% phase-out by 2030. B. CFCs have a greater global warming potential (GWP) than HCFCs This is correct. CFCs do have a greater global warming potential (GWP) compared to HCFCs. C. The ozone depletion potential (ODP) of HCFCs and CFCs is about the same HCFCs have much smaller ODP values than CFCs, but their ODP values are not zero. HCFCs do less than 2% ozone damage compared to CFC-11. D. LEED encourages replacing CFC or halon-based fire suppression systems with HCFCs LEED promotes using fire-suppression systems that do not contain CFCs, HCFCs, or halons.

A school building consumes electricity from the grid at night while contributing energy back to the grid during the day from on-site solar panels, resulting in the school having no electricity costs. This is an example of: A. Carbon neutrality B. Net-zero energy C. Water balance D. Zero waste

A. Carbon neutrality Carbon neutrality is emitting no more carbon emissions than the project can sequester or offset. B. Net-zero energy This is Correct. Net-zero energy projects use no more energy from the electrical grid than can be produced from on-site renewable energy systems. C. Water balance Water balance is the use of no more water than which falls on the site as precipitation D. Zero waste Producing zero waste is accomplished by composting, reusing, and recycling.

Reduced emissions are a benefit of purchasing: A. Certified wood B. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) C. Materials with high SRI D. Recycled water

A. Certified wood Sustainable forestry is the environmental benefit of certified wood. B. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) This is Correct. RECs are a tradable commodity representing the 'greenness' of green power. They are purchased when a project does not have access to green power through their utility provider. However, this isn't a way to bypass purchasing power; when RECs are purchased the project still needs to pay the normal electricity bills. RECs represent the reduced emissions of renewable energy compared to conventional fossil fuels. RECs are sold separately allowing people to purchase the 'greenness' of the electricity. This allows anyone to purchase an REC even if the power to their building is not green power. RECs have no geographic constraints, because they are sold separately from electricity. A project in Maine can purchase RECs from any other state. RECs cannot be purchased for a project's own on-site renewable energy systems. For example if a project has a solar array, the building owner could not issue RECs to themselves. C. Materials with high SRI Materials with high SRI help reduce the heat island effect. D. Recycled water Recycled water supplied by municipalities helps reduce potable water use.

A project team is reviewing strategies to increase energy efficiency. Which of the following will help reduce plug-load demands? A. Computer modeling B. Efficient street lighting C. High-performance glazing D. Installing appliances that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements

A. Computer modeling An energy simulation done with computer modeling helps tremendously to determine the building's energy use; however what gets plugged into the wall determines the plug loads. B. Efficient street lighting Street lights would be hard wired into the electrical system, not plugged in. C. High-performance glazing High-performance glazing increases energy efficiency but is not related to the plug load. D. Installing appliances that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements This is Correct. ENERGY STAR labeled appliances perform better and increase energy efficiency.

What environmental issue is associated with refrigerants used in HVAC&R systems? A. Damage to the Earth's ozone layer B. Increased air pollution C. Increased use of fossil fuels D. Pollution of water bodies

A. Damage to the Earth's ozone layer This is Correct. Refrigerants have ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP) due to greenhouse gas emissions. Low values of each are best for refrigerant choices.

Which of the following is not an alternative LEED recommends for reducing stratospheric ozone depletion? A. Designing a building to use natural ventilation B. Selecting refrigerants with lower Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and Global Warming Potential (GWP) C. Selecting refrigerants that have a long atmospheric lifetimes D. Using natural refrigerants

A. Designing a building to use natural ventilation Natural ventilation does not require the use of refrigerants and would result in no refrigerants gassing into the ozone layer. B. Selecting refrigerants with lower Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and Global Warming Potential (GWP) Refrigerants with lower ODP and GWP have a lesser effect on the ozone layer. C. Selecting refrigerants that have a long atmospheric lifetimes Refrigerants that are in the atmosphere longer would have a longer (greater) impact on the ozone layer. D. Using natural refrigerants Natural refrigerants are benign to the atmosphere.

Regularly occupied spaces would include which of the following: A. Dorm room B. Break room C. Corridor D. Restroom

A. Dorm room This is Correct. For LEED only, the dorm room is considered a regularly occupied space.Read the Space Categorization section of the EQ Overview at http://www.usgbc.org/guide/bdc for information on space types and occupied vs. unoccupied spaces.Further, pay attention to the differences between regularly occupied spaces vs. nonregularly occupied spaces, and also individual occupant spaces vs. shared multioccupant spaces.

When calculating building energy performance, what is included as process energy? A. Elevator B. High efficient HVAC unit C. Instant hot water heater D. Walkway lighting

A. Elevator This is Correct. When calculating the Minimum Energy Performance of a building the energy calculations take into account process and non-process energy. The best way to remember the difference is process energy generally comes from equipment that is plugged into a wall outlet (it has a plug load). Examples of process energy include: - Computers - Office equipment - Kitchen stoves - Kitchen refrigerators - Washers and dryers - Elevators and escalators (these don't have regular plugs, but are considered process energy for LEED) Non-process, or regulated energy generally includes built-in building components: - Interior and exterior lighting (parking garage, security, landscape, architectural) - HVAC (heating, cooling, fans, pumps) - Hot water heating - Toilet exhaust - Parking garage ventilation

Which of the following is a measure of energy use intensity? A. Energy consumed per unit of floor space B. The amount of electricity a photovoltaic system can produce C. The efficiency of an HVAC system D. Daylighting

A. Energy consumed per unit of floor space This is Correct. A study by the New Buildings Institute found that in green buildings, average energy use intensities (energy consumed per unit of floor space) are 24% lower than in typical buildings." - USGBC When a building is benchmarked and compared to other buildings, one of the key metrics is energy use intensity, or EUI. Essentially, the EUI expresses a building's energy use as a function of its size or other characteristics. For most property types, the EUI is expressed as energy per square foot per year. It's calculated by dividing the total energy consumed by the building in one year (measured in kBtu or GJ) by the total gross floor area of the building. EUI is measured as: kBtu / sf / yr Some property types are more energy intensive than others Generally, a low EUI signifies good energy performance. However, certain property types will always use more energy than others. For example, an elementary school uses relatively little energy compared to a hospital.

A building automation system will assist with collecting data about which of the following: A. Energy spikes that occur every morning B. Complaints from occupants about a loud fan noise in a conference room C. Cleanliness of restrooms D. Maintenance schedule for replacing air filters

A. Energy spikes that occur every morning This is Correct. Building automation systems (BAS) collect data about a building's systems and track it over time. The data can be used to determine trends or anomalies, which can then serve to help fix or update the systems. B. Complaints from occupants about a loud fan noise in a conference room This is a maintenance issue. C. Cleanliness of restrooms This is a janitorial issue. D. Maintenance schedule for replacing air filters This is an operations issue.

What process uses heat recovery to capture heat from the process of generating electricity and then turns the recovered heat into thermal energy that can be used to heat a building? A. Evapotranspiration B. Commissioning C. Cogeneration D. Tertiary treatment

A. Evapotranspiration Evapotranspiration is water leaving plants and soil and returning back to the atmosphere. B. Commissioning Commissioning is systematic process of assuring that a building performs in accordance with the design intent and the owner's operational needs. C. Cogeneration This is Correct. Combined heat and power (CHP) is an electricity generation technology, also known as cogeneration, that recovers waste heat from the electric generation process to produce simultaneously other forms of useful energy, such as usable heat or steam. On average, two-thirds of the input energy used to make electricity is lost as waste heat. In contrast, CHP systems are capable of converting more than 70 % of the fuel into usable energy. D. Tertiary treatment A project that treats 50% of wastewater onsite to tertiary standards can earn the Innovative Wastewater Technologies credit. Tertiary treatment of wastewater leaves the water in a state where it can be used for agriculture or discharged back into the environment. It is not suitable for drinking.

Which of the following is a benefit of commissioning? A. Fewer system deficiencies B. Reduced construction schedules C. Decreased project costs D. Reduced operational training

A. Fewer system deficiencies This is Correct. One of the main benefits of commissioning is finding problems that result in system deficiencies. B. Reduced construction schedules Commissioning doesn't necessarily equate to reduced construction schedules. It may take additional time for the process, or it may reduce time because issues are found earlier and change orders are reduced. C. Decreased project costs Commissioning can be expensive and may add 1% to the total project cost; however, the savings far outweigh any associated costs. Simple issues like stuck valves or improperly installed equipment can be found during commissioning that would otherwise go unnoticed and that could otherwise add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings. If a system is designed a certain way but it doesn't get installed properly, it can cost 10x as much to operate. D. Reduced operational training Training and commissioning are unrelated.

Once occupants are in a building, how can the project team maintain ongoing energy efficiency? A. Fundamental Commissioning B. By monitoring building automation systems C. Recharging refrigerants more often than manufacturers recommendations D. By purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)

A. Fundamental Commissioning No, Fundamental Commissioning ensures that the delivered completed building meets the owner's project requirements for energy, water, indoor environmental quality, and durability. However, Retrocommissioning is "a commissioning process that can be performed on existing buildings to identify and recognize system improvements that make the building more suitable for current use." - USGBC B. By monitoring building automation systems This is Correct. Building automation systems (BAS) collect data about a building's systems and track it over time. The data can be used to determine trends or anomalies, which can then serve to help fix or update the systems. C. Recharging refrigerants more often than manufacturers recommendations This has no positive impact on ongoing energy efficiency, but could have a negative impact on ozone depletion. D. By purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) RECs do not maintain a building's energy efficiency.

To qualify for LEED, carbon offsets must be which of the following? A. Green-e Energy certified (or equivalent) B. Green-e Climate certified (or equivalent) C. ENERGY STAR labeled D. Purchased and used within the same state or locale.

A. Green-e Energy certified (or equivalent) Green-e Energy certification is for qualifying RECs for LEED . B. Green-e Climate certified (or equivalent) This is Correct. Green-e Climate certification is for qualifying carbon offsets for LEED. C. ENERGY STAR labeled ENERGY STAR labels are not related to carbon offsets. D. Purchased and used within the same state or locale. In the U.S., offsets must come from GHG emissions reductions projects within the U.S. (not the state).

Which of the following is reduced with the help of carbon offsets? A. Greenhouse gas emissions B. CFCs C. Ozone D. Water contamination

A. Greenhouse gas emissions This is Correct. The Green Power and Carbon Offset credit encourage the reduction in GHG emissions through the use of grid-source renewable energy technologies and carbon offsets. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary greenhouse gas emitted through human activities.

What variable measure a refrigerant's impact on the environment? A. Greenhouse gas lifetime B. Lifecycle potential C. Global warming potential D. Global warming period

A. Greenhouse gas lifetime This is not a LEED term. B. Lifecycle potential Lifecycle potential is not a term LEED uses to measure refrigerant impact. Lifecycle ODP and Lifecycle GWP are however. C. Global warming potential This is correct. GWP is a number that refers to the amount of global warming caused by a substance. D. Global warming period This is not a LEED term.

What statement is true regarding HydroChloroFluoroCarbons (HCFCs)? A. HCFCs are refrigerants currently banned by the Montreal Protocol B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs C. HCFCs are a type of natural refrigerant D. LEED requires zero use of HCFCs

A. HCFCs are refrigerants currently banned by the Montreal Protocol HCFCs are not banned yet. They are being phased out by the Montreal Protocol. B. HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs HCFCs have a low ozone depletion potential compared to CFCs. C. HCFCs are a type of natural refrigerant HCFCs are not in the class of natural refrigerants. D. LEED requires zero use of HCFCs Zero use of CFCs, not HCFCs, is required to achieve Fundamental Refrigerant Management under LEED.HCFCs are schedule to be phased out under the Montreal Protocol.

What statement is true regarding HydroFluoroCarbons (HFCs)? A. HFCs are scheduled to be banned under the Montreal Protocolv B. The HFC refrigerant group includes NH3, CO2, and propane C. HFCs have high ozone depletion potential D. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential

A. HFCs are scheduled to be banned under the Montreal Protocolv HCFCs, not HFCs are being phased out under the Montreal Protocol with a 90% phaseout occurring in 2015. B. The HFC refrigerant group includes NH3, CO2, and propane NH3, CO2, and propane are types of natural refrigerants and are not part of the HydroFluoroCarbons (HFC) refrigerant group. C. HFCs have high ozone depletion potential HFCs have a low ozone depletion potential, not a high ozone depletion potential. D. Many HFCs have a significant global warming potential HFCs typically have a low ozone depletion potential but a high global warming potential.

Which of the following has the greatest direct impact on global warming? A. HVAC operating efficiency B. Building orientation C. SRI of a building's roof D. Size of a project's impermeable areas

A. HVAC operating efficiency How efficiently HVAC equipment is directly impacts how much fossil fuel is burned to heat and cool a building. B. Building orientation Building orientation has an indirect impact since the building's orientation does not itself increase global warming. The orientation has an indirect impact by either requiring more/less fossil fuels to be burned to heat/cool the building. C. SRI of a building's roof This is an indirect impact because the roof does not contribute to global warming. The roof has an indirect impact by either requiring more/less fossil fuels to be burned to heat/cool the building. D. Size of a project's impermeable areas This is not correct.

Which refrigerant is considered environmentally benign? A. Halons B. HydroFluoroCarbons C. Chlorofluorocarbon D. Hydrocarbons

A. Halons Halons used to be used fire suppression systems until they were banned. Halons, CFCs, and HCFCs contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion. B. HydroFluoroCarbons HFCs (HydroFluoroCarbons) are not covered in the Montreal Protocol. These refrigerants have low Ozone Depletion Potential but typically high Global Warming Potential. C. Chlorofluorocarbon D. Hydrocarbons This is correct. Hydrocarbons are a classification of natural refrigerants which are benign to the environment. Propane, butane, ethane, isobutene, and isopentane are types of hydrocarbons.

What project areas would you find refrigerants like CFCs? A. Hot water heating and Window a/c units B. Radiant flooring and Water Coolers C. Centrifugal Chillers and Window a/c units D. Single Split HVAC systems and Centrifugal Chillers

A. Hot water heating and Window a/c units Hot water heating does not use refrigerants like CFCs. and Window a/c units are exempt for the small amounts of potential refrigerants like CFC. NOTE: Credit Language: "Existing small HVAC&R units (defined as containing less than 0.5 pound (225 grams) of refrigerant) and other equipment, such as standard refrigerators, small water coolers, and any other equipment that contains less than 0.5 pound (225 grams) of refrigerant, are exempt." B. Radiant flooring and Water Coolers Radiant flooring is a method for heating floors by embedding materials in the subfloor that can transfer heat. It does not contain refrigerants like CFC. and Water Coolers are exempt for the small amounts of potential refrigerants like CFC. C. Centrifugal Chillers and Window a/c units Centrifugal chillers are a building application that use refrigerants like CFCs. However, Window a/c units are exempt for the small amounts of potential refrigerants like CFC. D. Single Split HVAC systems and Centrifugal Chillers Correct HVAC split systems and Centrifugal chillers are both building application that use refrigerants like CFCs. Definition: Centrifugal Chiller: A heat exchanger that removes heat from the entering chilled water lowering its temperature in the process. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OP_v7RL66w0 "Liquid refrigerant cools the motor" Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7nh0y0nccs "Recharging a chiller with R-134a refrigerant"

One way to reduce a building's energy load is to do which of the following? A. Increase the size of the building B. Site the building far away from adjacent buildings C. Reduce a building's thermal mass D. Configure the building to minimize solar gain in summer and maximize it in winter

A. Increase the size of the building A building that is sized appropriately reduces energy demand. Increasing the size increases energy demands. B. Site the building far away from adjacent buildings Siting buildings close together can help the buildings shade and insulate each other to reduce energy use. C. Reduce a building's thermal mass Increasing thermal mass provides improved insulation to save energy. D. Configure the building to minimize solar gain in summer and maximize it in winter This is Correct. This strategy maximizes a building's ability to use natural lighting and natural heating.

A data center in a rural area wants to be net-zero. Which of the following design decisions will help the project team achieve this? A. Install a photovoltaic system on site B. Purchase carbon offsets C. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) D. Provide all occupants with electric vehicles

A. Install a photovoltaic system on site This is Correct. On-site renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal) would help the project generate all of the electricity it needs. B. Purchase carbon offsets Carbon offsets help offset a building's carbon emissions. C. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) REC purchases contribute to growing grid-source renewable energy. D. Provide all occupants with electric vehicles This would not help the project be net-zero.

What is lighting power density measured in? A. Number of luminaries per unit area B. Installed lighting power per unit area C. Footcandles per floor area D. The quantity of light trespass on adjacent sites, measured in watts

A. Number of luminaries per unit area This is incorrect. B. Installed lighting power per unit area This is Correct. Lighting power density is the installed lighting power per unit area (the amount of electrical power used to illuminate a space). It is usually expressed in Watts per unit of area. Reducing the lighting power density can reduce energy use. C. Footcandles per floor area This is incorrect. D. The quantity of light trespass on adjacent sites, measured in watts This is incorrect.

A building owner wants to increase efficiency to lower the operating costs of a new building project. What strategy would help with this goal? A. Install all LED lighting B. Provide daylighting C. Install triple-paned glass windows instead of double-paned glass windows D. Install a photovoltaic system on the roof

A. Install all LED lighting This is Correct. For both energy efficiency and water efficiency, LEED requires an efficiency-first approach. Efficiency is 'doing the same with less'. After efficiency, the focus should then be placed on other ways to reduce demand. For example, with outdoor water irrigation, if the design only calls for using rainwater irrigation, that doesn't improve the efficiency of the irrigation system, resulting in less water use. First design the landscape to use less water, than look at ways to reuse water to further reduce demand. For building energy use, you can increase efficiency by using LED lighting, ENERGY STAR appliances and equipment, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and high-efficiency boilers. B. Provide daylighting Daylighting reduces energy demand, it does not increase efficiency. C. Install triple-paned glass windows instead of double-paned glass windows The type of windows impacts energy demand from lighting, it does not increase efficiency of lighting systems. D. Install a photovoltaic system on the roof On site or offsite renewable energy systems reduce the demand for grid-source non-renewable energy. They do not increase efficiency.

A developer is building a medical park that will have ten buildings for doctors' offices. Which of the following is a strategy for achieving energy efficiency? A. Installing a community solar garden B. Building a district heating and cooling system C. Siting the buildings close to each other D. Purchasing carbon offsets

A. Installing a community solar garden Solar is a type of renewable energy that neither reduces demand nor increases efficiency. B. Building a district heating and cooling system This is Correct. A district energy system (DES) is "a central energy conversion plant and transmission and distribution system that provides thermal energy to a group of buildings (e.g., a central cooling plant on a university campus). It does not include central energy systems that provide only electricity." - USGBC Individual buildings served by a district energy system don't need their own boilers or furnaces, chillers or air conditioners. The district energy system does that work for them, providing valuable benefits including improved energy efficiency overall. C. Siting the buildings close to each other If the buildings can help shade and insulate each other, this reduces energy demand. It does not increase efficiency. D. Purchasing carbon offsets Carbon offsets do not increase efficiency.

What LEED credits reward projects for improving operational energy performance? A. Integrative process B. Energy metering C. Green power and carbon offsets D. Demand response

A. Integrative process Although the integrative process credit addressed energy consumption, it is specific to reducing energy demand in design. B. Energy metering This is Correct. Metering building systems helps the staff track energy usage during operations. With advanced metering, unusual trends and spikes can be analyzed compared to a benchmark or the original energy model. Thus, meter data is used to improve performance. C. Green power and carbon offsets This credit rewards projects for using grid-source, renewable energy technologies and carbon mitigation projects. D. Demand response Demand response rewards projects for participating in a DR program to help reduce the load from grid during peak times.

Why is it important to categorize spaces in LEED? A. It helps with floor area calculations B. Smaller spaces have lower baseline requirements C. Depending on the space categorization, the credit requirements may not apply D. The types of spaces are used to determine building density

A. It helps with floor area calculations The type of space does not affect the measurement of the floor area. B. Smaller spaces have lower baseline requirements This is not correct. C. Depending on the space categorization, the credit requirements may not apply This is Correct. The space types in LEED sometimes have different requirements. For example, the lighting requirements may differ for an individual occupant (task lighting) or for a shared multi-occupant space (occupancy sensors). D. The types of spaces are used to determine building density The number of occupants determines building density.

Developing nations banned ChloroFluoroCarbons (CFCs) under the: A. Kyoto Treaty B. Montreal Protocol C. EPA Clean Air Act D. Executive Order 95-231

A. Kyoto Treaty B. Montreal Protocol The Montreal Protocol banned CFCs. Developing nations signed on to phase out the use of CFCs, while some other nations still produce and use CFCs. Under the Montreal Protocol, CFC production in the United States ended in 1995, and HCFC production is banned beginning in 2030. To implement the Montreal Protocol, the EPA established Section 608 of the EPA Clean Air Act for regulating the use and recycling of ozone-depleting compounds. C. EPA Clean Air Act EPA Clean Air Act specifies disposal procedures for CFCs among other things. D. Executive Order 95-231

A home owner in a sunny climate has decided to lease a photovoltaic system instead of purchase one. Which of the following about that choice is true? A. Leasing the system would allow the owner to participate in a demand response program. B. Leasing the system would offset a large up-front cost. C. Leasing the system would decrease the home's electricity demand. D. Leasing the system would increase the home's energy efficiency.

A. Leasing the system would allow the owner to participate in a demand response program. Renewable energy and demand response are not related. B. Leasing the system would offset a large up-front cost. This is Correct. Leasing a system allows the owner not to have to pay a large up-front cost for the system. The company that provides the equipment would also maintain the system and fix any issues. In addition to leasing, some company's install equipment at little or no cost, and the owner can purchase the renewable electricity from the company. Both strategies reduce up-front costs. C. Leasing the system would decrease the home's electricity demand. The energy demand of the home is the same. It requires the same amount of power to run. D. Leasing the system would increase the home's energy efficiency. Adding renewable energy sources does not improve the efficiency of a building. It changes the source of the electricity and helps to reduce GHG emissions.

An owner for a new three-story office space wants to know how the building compares to other buildings of similar function. Which of the following can be used to compare the performance of the building? A. Local tax records B. LEED Online C. EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager D. Commissioning reports

A. Local tax records Tax records only show the costs of the space. B. LEED Online LEED Online is not used to compare buildings. C. EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager This is Correct. EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager can be used to compare buildings of similar size and function (office to office, for example). D. Commissioning reports Commissioning reports detail what is going on in a building. They are not used to compare buildings.

A project owner wants to provide financial support to a reforestation project. What would help with this goal? A. On-site renewable energy B. Green power C. Building in a high-priority site D. Carbon offsets

A. On-site renewable energy Renewable energy is a system, such as on-site solar, wind turbines, and solar hot water heaters. B. Green power Green power is "a subset of renewable energy composed of grid-based electricity produced from renewable energy sources." - USGBC C. Building in a high-priority site High priority sites are unrelated to reforestation. D. Carbon offsets This is Correct. Purchasing carbon offsets helps fund projects that decrease carbon emissions or remove carbon from the atmosphere. Examples of these types of projects include reforestation, changing land-use, and methane abatement.

Which of the following project areas would retrocommissioning aid? A. Operational energy efficiency B. Identifying system problems prior to occupancy C. Selecting environmentally preferable products D. Advanced energy metering

A. Operational energy efficiency This is Correct. Retrocommissioning is "a commissioning process that can be performed on existing buildings to identify and recognize system improvements that make the building more suitable for current use." - USGBC Retrocommissioning usually occurs at least one year after the building has been occupied. B. Identifying system problems prior to occupancy Commissioning (not retrocommissioning) identifies problems before occupancy C. Selecting environmentally preferable products This is not correct. D. Advanced energy metering This is not correct.

A developer wants to reduce energy demand to lower the heating and cooling costs of a new building project. What strategy would help with this goal? A. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) B. Increase the size of the building C. Adding more windows to the building envelope D. Optimize the building orientation

A. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) RECs have no impact on reducing a building's energy demand. B. Increase the size of the building If the size of the building increases the energy use will increase. The larger the building the more it costs to heat and cool it. C. Adding more windows to the building envelope Adding more windows increases heat gain, requiring more cooling. D. Optimize the building orientation This is Correct. The building orientation has the biggest impact on heating, cooling and the potential for daylighting.

The owner of a historic renovation project wants to achieve carbon neutrality. Which of the following design decision will help the project team achieve this? A. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) B. Using no more water than what falls on the site as precipitation C. Purchasing carbon offsets D. Participating in a demand response program

A. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) REC purchases contribute to growing grid-source renewable energy. B. Using no more water than what falls on the site as precipitation This is an example of how a project would achieve water balance. C. Purchasing carbon offsets This is Correct. One way to achieve carbon neutrality is to purchase carbon offsets D. Participating in a demand response program This decision helps lower a project's energy demand but it does not achieve carbon neutrality like purchasing carbon offsets would.

What is the most common way to meet the requirements of off-site renewable energy? A. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) B. Directly purchasing green power from local utility companies C. Installing a rooftop photovoltaic array D. Obtaining energy from a geothermal system

A. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) This is Correct. The most common way (according to LEED) of meeting the requirements of off-site renewable energy is by purchasing RECs. Many local utility companies currently are either closed markets or do not offer renewable alternatives. RECs represent the reduced emissions of renewable energy compared to conventional fossil fuels. RECs are sold separately allowing people to purchase the 'greenness' of the electricity. This allows anyone to purchase an REC even if the power to their building is not green power. RECs have no geographic constraints, because they are sold separately from electricity. A project in Maine can purchase RECs from any other state. B. Directly purchasing green power from local utility companies Purchasing RECs is more common than purchasing green power from local utility companies. C. Installing a rooftop photovoltaic array Photovoltaic arrays are a type of on-site renewable energy. D. Obtaining energy from a geothermal system Geothermal systems are a type of on-site renewable energy.

A refrigerated warehouse project in the design phase could reduce its electricity demand by taking which of the following actions? A. Purchasing carbon offsets to counter GHG emissions B. Enrolling in a demand response program C. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) D. Purchasing all electricity from a wind farm

A. Purchasing carbon offsets to counter GHG emissions Carbon offsets do not alter a building's electricity use. B. Enrolling in a demand response program This is Correct. "Demand response allows utilities to call on buildings to decrease their electricity use during peak times, reducing the strain on the grid and the need to operate more power plants, thus potentially avoiding the costs of constructing new plants." - USGBC A demand response program can work for the most demanding energy projects - data centers, refrigeration, or fully occupied buildings in areas that hit 110 F degrees (43 C) in the summer. C. Purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) RECs do not alter a building's electricity use. D. Purchasing all electricity from a wind farm While this choice is better than using fossil fuel based electricity, it does not reduce the electricity usage of the building.

Which of the following is a difference between Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) and a carbon offset? A. RECs are purchased B. RECs encourage the reduction of GHG emissions C. RECs are tradable commodities D. RECs must be purchased locally

A. RECs are purchased Both RECs and carbon offsets are purchased. B. RECs encourage the reduction of GHG emissions Both RECs and carbon offsets encourage the reduction of GHG emissions C. RECs are tradable commodities This is Correct. This is a difference between the two. D. RECs must be purchased locally RECs can be purchased from any provider.

On a project with an older existing HVAC&R system that uses CFCs, what can the project team do to earn LEED certification? A. Recharge the equipment with CFCs B. Make a phase out plan for the removal of the CFC based refrigerants C. Get a state exemption for the HVAC&R system D. Eliminate all refrigerant leaks

A. Recharge the equipment with CFCs This would not meet LEED requirements. B. Make a phase out plan for the removal of the CFC based refrigerants This is Correct. The project team can replace or retrofit the existing system with one that is CFC-free, or agree to have a phase out plan that is completed 5 years after project completion. C. Get a state exemption for the HVAC&R system This would not meet LEED requirements. D. Eliminate all refrigerant leaks During the phase out plan the leakage rate must be reduced. However just reducing leaks doesn't meet LEED requirements.

Which of the following is a benefit of a building owner choosing to install a wind turbine on site to reduce the building's use of grid-source nonrenewable energy? A. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions B. Lower liabilities C. Decreased up-front building costs D. Heat island reduction

A. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions This is Correct. When renewable energy (wind, geothermal, solar) is chosen over nonrenewable energy (oil, coal, natural gas), greenhouse gas emissions are decreased. B. Lower liabilities Liabilities would not be an issue. C. Decreased up-front building costs The up-front costs will probably be higher unless the owner can find a utility provider to install the system for free and then agree to purchase the renewable energy from the provider. D. Heat island reduction Heat islands would not be impacted.

Using passive strategies such as daylighting is an example of which of the following: A. Reducing energy demand B. Increasing energy efficiency C. Renewable energy practice D. Energy performance management

A. Reducing energy demand This is Correct. Passive strategies are an example of reducing energy demand.

What environmental issue is associated with the burning of fossil fuels? A. Release of carbon dioxide B. Reduction of water from aquifers C. Interference with migratory birds D. Sedimentation of water supplies

A. Release of carbon dioxide This is Correct. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, a type of greenhouse gas. B. Reduction of water from aquifers The use of potable water for indoor and outdoor water use contributes to reducing water in aquifers. C. Interference with migratory birds Bird migration is usually not impacted by the burning of fossil fuels. D. Sedimentation of water supplies Sedimentation of water supplies is caused by rainwater runoff/erosion.

Which of the following is NOT an example of on-site generated renewable energy? A. Solar B. Wind C. Biofuel-based electrical system D. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)

A. Solar Solar power can be generated on-site and is a renewable energy source. B. Wind Wind can be generated on-site and is a renewable energy source. C. Biofuel-based electrical system Biofuel based technologies use a renewable/recurring supply of organic material such as plant matter (biomass) to produce electricity. Bio-fuels are fuels derived from biomass. Bio-fuel systems reduce dependence on fossil fuels. For LEED biofuels include: untreated wood waste agricultural crops or waste animal waste other organic waste landfill gas D. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) This is Correct. A REC represents the environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources. These attributes may be sold separately from the underlying commodity electricity. RECs are not energy themselves.

In commercial buildings, on average which end use consumes the most energy? A. Space heating B. Lighting C. Cooling D. Ventilation

A. Space heating This is Correct. According to the USGBC, on average, the distribution of a building's energy use is below. Variations will exist in different buildings and different climates, but for the purposes of the LEED exam these are the end use breakdowns to be aware of: Space Heating - 36% Lighting - 21% Cooling - 8% Water Heating - 8% Ventilation - 7% Refrigeration - 6% Cooking - 3% Computers - 2% Office Equipment - 1% Other - 8%

Which of the following must occur to ensure energy-efficient design is carried through to efficient performance? A. Staff training B. Sixty day post occupancy review after the building is certified C. Yearly maintenance of all non-energy related systems D. Indoor air-quality monitoring

A. Staff training This is Correct. The staff must understand the systems and how to use them or else the design of the systems is irrelevant. For example, if a building has occupancy sensors to control lighting but someone turns on the manual override and never turns it back off, the automated lighting is no longer working as designed to save energy.

What benefit does purchasing off-site renewable energy (Green Power) have? A. The building will avoid electricity blackouts B. The building design will be more efficient C. Off-site renewable energy costs less than off-site non-renewable energy D. Less emissions will be generated

A. The building will avoid electricity blackouts If the project gets the electricity from the grid it is susceptible to the same frequency of blackouts. B. The building design will be more efficient The efficiency remains unchanged. The same amount of electricity will be required to run it. The difference is the electricity is coming from a different source. C. Off-site renewable energy costs less than off-site non-renewable energy There is usually a price premium for renewable energy sources. D. Less emissions will be generated This is Correct. The environmental benefits of green power are emissions reductions.

Which of the following project team members is responsible for verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements? A. The mechanical engineer B. The project administrator C. The commissioning authority D. The LEED project reviewer

A. The mechanical engineer The mechanical engineer may assist the commissioning authority (CxA) but the CxA has other systems to verify besides just the mechanical systems. B. The project administrator The project administrator is not responsible for this (unless they are also the commissioning authority). C. The commissioning authority This is Correct. This is another way of asking who is responsible for commissioning. "Commissioning is "the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements." - USGBC The owner's project requirements (OPR) are "a written document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project." - USGBC D. The LEED project reviewer This person reviews the submitted credit documentation. They do not show up on site and test systems.

What is GWP as it relates to refrigerants? A. The speed at which an appliance loses its refrigerant B. The potential for a single molecule of the refrigerant to destroy the ozone layer C. The efficiency of a refrigerant D. A measurement of how much effect the given refrigerant will have on global warming in relation to carbon dioxide.

A. The speed at which an appliance loses its refrigerant This is the leakage rate for a piece of equipment. B. The potential for a single molecule of the refrigerant to destroy the ozone layer This is the Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP). C. The efficiency of a refrigerant There is no LEED value which identifies refrigerant efficiency. D. A measurement of how much effect the given refrigerant will have on global warming in relation to carbon dioxide. GWP is Global Warming PotentialCO2 has a GWP of 1.The lower the GWP the better the refrigerant is for the environment.

An existing office building has a 20-year old chiller that uses CFC-11. An owner is considering a major renovation of the building and applying for LEED for New Construction certification. What statement is true about the project's ability to earn LEED certification? A. The owner must replace the chiller to earn LEED certification B. The owner can implement a phase-out plan to earn LEED certification C. The owner can leave the existing system in place as-is D. The owner will not be able to achieve a Platinum level certification

A. The owner must replace the chiller to earn LEED certification Replacement is not always required. If a third party audit shows that the simple payback for the new system would be more than 10 years the system does not have to be replaced. B. The owner can implement a phase-out plan to earn LEED certification Existing buildings that have CFC based systems are still eligible for certification. A phase out plan must be implemented if a third party audit shows that the simple payback for the new system would be 10 years or less. C. The owner can leave the existing system in place as-is D. The owner will not be able to achieve a Platinum level certification The project could still achieve any level of certification.

If a building owner enrolls in a demand response program, which of the following will happen? A. The owner will have to purchase carbon dioxide equivalents equal to the annual grid-generated electricity. B. The owner will have to purchase RECs equal to fifty percent of the building's yearly electricity use. C. During off-peak times, the building's excess electricity may be sold back to the utility company. D. The building may have to decrease electricity use during peak times.

A. The owner will have to purchase carbon dioxide equivalents equal to the annual grid-generated electricity. This is required for Carbon Offsets B. The owner will have to purchase RECs equal to fifty percent of the building's yearly electricity use. This is required for Green Power C. During off-peak times, the building's excess electricity may be sold back to the utility company. This is net-metering, though net-metering occurs at any time, not just off-peak hours. D. The building may have to decrease electricity use during peak times. This is Correct. "Demand response allows utilities to call on buildings to decrease their electricity use during peak times, reducing the strain on the grid and the need to operate more power plants, thus potentially avoiding the costs of constructing new plants." - USGBC

A project is located in an area with a demand-response program and on a site that has enough room for a wind-turbine to allow for on-site renewable energy. If the project implements both of these strategies, which of the following will occur? A. The project's energy costs will decrease B. The project's renewable energy production will decrease C. The project's minimum energy performance will decrease D. The project's energy demands will decrease

A. The project's energy costs will decrease This is Correct. Demand-response programs usually include financial incentives during demand response events. The utility company asks the building to use less electricity, the building agrees, and the building owner is rewarded with a price break. In turn, the utility company saves money by spending less money on additional transmission lines and power plants. B. The project's renewable energy production will decrease The renewable energy production doesn't decrease if the project is also in a demand-response program. C. The project's minimum energy performance will decrease The minimum energy performance for the project would remain the same. On-site renewables do not count toward reducing the minimum energy required to run the building. D. The project's energy demands will decrease The energy demands remain constant for this project. The wind turbine will offset the need for grid-supplied energy. The demand response participation will curb the building's energy use during peak times.

What does a REC represent? A. The quantity of fossil fuels avoided by purchasing renewable energy, expressed in tons B. The amount of energy purchased from a Green-e supplier C. The environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources D. The amount of energy an electricity provider purchases from renewable sources

A. The quantity of fossil fuels avoided by purchasing renewable energy, expressed in tons RECs are expressed in kilowatt hours. B. The amount of energy purchased from a Green-e supplier When you purchase an REC you are not purchasing energy. C. The environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources This is Correct. A REC represents the environmental, social, and other positive attributes of power generated by renewable resources. These attributes may be sold separately from the underlying commodity electricity. RECs represent the reduced emissions of renewable energy compared to conventional fossil fuels. RECs are sold separately allowing people to purchase the 'greenness' of the electricity. This allows anyone to purchase an REC even if the power to their building is not green power. RECs have no geographic constraints, because they are sold separately from electricity. A project in Maine can purchase RECs from any other state. D. The amount of energy an electricity provider purchases from renewable sources This would be expressed in kilowatt hours and is just a quantity of energy.

Energy efficiency is defined as: A. The replacement of any older building product with a newer building product B. Any strategy that reduces resource use 20% from a baseline comparison C. Any strategy that reduces resource use 10% or more from a baseline comparison D. The use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same function as a conventional item

A. The replacement of any older building product with a newer building product Newer building products are not necessarily more energy efficient. Doors are a good example. A door from 100 years ago was probably solid wood. A new door might be a wood frame with steel veneer and a Styrofoam core. The old door may have greater insulating properties. B. Any strategy that reduces resource use 20% from a baseline comparison No specific percentages define if a product is more energy efficient than another. C. Any strategy that reduces resource use 10% or more from a baseline comparison No specific percentages define if a product is more energy efficient than another. D. The use of technology that requires less energy to perform the same function as a conventional item This is Correct. A LED light bulb that uses less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light is an example of energy efficiency. The decision to replace an incandescent light bulb with a LED is an example of energy conservation.

An owner wants to offset the environmental impact of a building's energy use. What is a benefit of purchasing off-site renewable energy or renewable energy certificates (RECs) over installing onsite renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic panels? A. The upfront costs to the building owner would be lower B. Off-site renewable energy and RECs are less expensive than grid-source non-renewable energy C. RECs only have to be purchased one-time to offset the building's lifetime energy use D. RECs can be shared across multiple LEED projects

A. The upfront costs to the building owner would be lower This is Correct. Onsite renewable energy systems typically have high upfront costs (first costs). These costs can be offset (but not always) by leasing systems or getting tax credits and other incentives. By purchasing RECs or green power from a utility company the building owner can reduce emissions while not having the large upfront costs of an onsite system. B. Off-site renewable energy and RECs are less expensive than grid-source non-renewable energy Off-site renewables and RECs typically have a price premium over standard non-renewable energy. C. RECs only have to be purchased one-time to offset the building's lifetime energy use Projects can earn LEED credit for agreeing to 5-year contracts to purchase RECs. While you can purchase RECs one-time, you typically buy them each year to offset the building's annual energy use. The building's energy use changes over time as the number of occupants grows and shrinks, and systems are changed. D. RECs can be shared across multiple LEED projects This is not correct.

What type of energy source generates the least air and water pollution? A. Wind B. Clean coal C. Natural gas D. Oil

A. Wind This is Correct. Wind, solar, and biomass are types of renewable energy sources (green power) LEED rewards projects for using. Coal, nuclear, natural gas, oil, and other fossil fuels have greater environmental impacts to the air and water.

What has ozone depletion potential (ODP)? A. Paints with high VOCs B. CFC-based refrigerants used in HVAC systems C. Construction dust D. Runoff from the flooding of a construction site

B. CFC-based refrigerants used in HVAC systems CFCs set the bar for ozone depletion potential against what all other refrigerants are measured.

Which of the following causes depletion of the ozone layer? A. Ammonia B. CFCs C. Propane D. CO2

B. CFCs This is Correct. CFCs cause depletion of the ozone layer.CO2, ammonia, and propane are natural refrigerants that are not detrimental to the ozone layer.

What is an example of a space that is typically unoccupied? A. Airplane hanger B. Data center floor area C. Gymnasium D. Private office

B. Data center floor area This is Correct.

An owner wants to install a photovoltaic system on the building's rooftop and sell the excess electricity back to the utility company. Which of the following would be aided by this strategy? A. Demand response B. On-site renewable energy C. Green power D. Carbon offsets

B. On-site renewable energy This is Correct. Net metering is the term for selling excess electricity back to the grid. Net metering can only be done when on-site renewable energy systems are present.

What is an environmental benefits of cogeneration? A. Reduced erosion and sedimentation B. Reduced air pollution C. Reduced wastewater generation D. Recharging of aquifers

B. Reduced air pollution This is Correct.

Increasing the thermal mass of a building and installing a photovoltaic system would help with: A. Reducing energy demand and increasing energy efficiency B. Reducing energy demand and increasing renewable energy C. Increasing energy efficiency and increasing renewable energy D. Decreasing energy efficiency and increasing renewable energy

B. Reducing energy demand and increasing renewable energy This is Correct. Reducing energy demand, or conservation, considers strategies to reduce building loads. Increasing thermal mass increases a building's insulation properties allowing it to maintain a more constant temperature thus reducing the need for heating and cooling.Photovoltaics are a type of renewable energy.

With regards to refrigerants what is a natural conflict between the prevention of ozone depletion and global warming? A. Refrigerants that deplete the ozone layer are less efficient B. Refrigerants that are neutral to the ozone layer are less efficient C. Refrigerants contain ozone layer gases D. Refrigerants contain global warming gases

B. Refrigerants that are neutral to the ozone layer are less efficient If a cooling system achieves greater efficiency only at the environmental price of using a chlorine-containing refrigerant, an inevitable environmental conflict exists.

Commissioning of a building is intended to verify the building and its systems meet which of the following: A. Local building code B. The owner's project requirements C. HVAC specifications D. Occupant preferences

B. The owner's project requirements This is Correct. Commissioning is "the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements." - USGBC The owner's project requirements (OPR) are "a written document that details the ideas, concepts, and criteria determined by the owner to be important to the success of the project." - USGBC

What minimum contract length is required for an owner to purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) for LEED credit? A. 1 year B. 3 years C. 5 years D. 10 years

C. 5 years This is Correct. In LEED v4 5 years is the contract term for purchasing RECs.

A project owner that chooses to use onsite renewable energy sources instead of oil, coal, and natural gas gets what economic benefit of the triple bottom line? A. Decreasing destructive extraction processes B. Protection from uncertain supplies C. Avoiding escalating market prices D. Contributing to national security vulnerability

C. Avoiding escalating market prices This is Correct. Renewable energy sources are sustainable, unlike nonrenewable sources which are limited cannot be replenished as fast as they are being consumed. This question asks about an economic benefit - avoiding nonrenewable pricing fluctuations.

Which of the following building components contribute to the plug load? A. Recessed lighting B. Elevators C. Computers D. HVAC system

C. Computers This is Correct. The plug load or receptacle load is "the electrical current drawn by all equipment that is connected to the electrical system via a wall outlet." - USGBC Plug loads are a part of the calculation for a building's energy use.

What helps utilities optimize their supply-side energy generation and delivery systems? A. Daylighting automation systems B. Building owners that purchase carbon offsets C. Customers that enroll in a demand response program D. Building submetering

C. Customers that enroll in a demand response program This is Correct. "Demand response allows utilities to call on buildings to decrease their electricity use during peak times, reducing the strain on the grid and the need to operate more power plants, thus potentially avoiding the costs of constructing new plants." - USGBC An example might be that during a very hot day, the utility company could reduce a building's energy demand by 5%, resulting in the building's HVAC systems to power down slightly and keep the building slightly warmer.

Which of the following actions should a project team take to make sure a building remains efficient during its operation? A. Verify that no issues occur during a demand-response event B. Turn on all systems to their maximum output to confirm the building can handle the load C. Ensure that the building systems are functioning as designed and that they support the owner's project requirements D. Run computer simulations to prioritize energy-efficiency opportunities

C. Ensure that the building systems are functioning as designed and that they support the owner's project requirements This is Correct. Operational energy efficiency is the ongoing process of maintaining a building's systems so that it operates at peak design.

Which of the following is a type of individual occupant space? A. Hospital exam room B. Auto service bay C. Study carrel D. Hotel front desk

C. Study carrel This is Correct.

A demand response (DR) event is triggered by the ____. A. Facility manager B. Building owner C. Utility company D. Building occupants

C. Utility company This is Correct.

What year does the Montreal Protocol phase out HCFCs? A. 1995 B. 2015 C. 2020 D. 2030

D. 2030 Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are a class of ozone-depleting chemicals used now primarily as refrigerants and foam blowing agents to replace CFCs. Although their ozone-depleting potential is less than that of CFCs, their global warming potential is quite high. Developed countries are already reducing their consumption of HCFCs to meet their phaseout obligations under the Montreal Protocol which call for a 90% reduction from baseline by 2015 and a 100% reduction by 2030.

Which of the following is the median payback period for the commissioning of new buildings? A. 1.5 years B. 2.6 years C. 3.9 years D. 4.8 years

D. 4.8 years This is Correct. Commissioning can be expensive but, compared to the savings it achieves over time, it's one of the best investments a building owner can make. There are many studies that show the benefits of commissioning with examples of installation errors that cost building owners thousands of dollars a year unnecessarily. A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found the following: "For existing buildings, we found median commissioning costs of $0.27/ft2, whole-building energy savings of 15 %, and payback times of 0.7 years. For new construction, median commissioning costs were $1.00/ft2 (0.6 % of total construction costs), yielding a median payback time of 4.8 years (excluding quantified non-energy impacts).

A building owner of a new extended-stay hotel is concerned about the higher initial costs for ENERGY STAR appliances. Which of the following could help with the decision-making process? A. Showing the GHG emissions that would be reduced B. Reviewing the building's energy use for ways to improve efficiency C. Using computer modeling to prioritize the owner's project requirements D. A life cycle costing of the trade-offs between the capital and operating costs

D. A life cycle costing of the trade-offs between the capital and operating costs This is Correct. The LCC would help determine the payback period of the higher first costs.

Which of the following would require use of the EPA's ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager? A. Calculating a building's minimum energy use B. Bulk uploading project information into LEED online C. Registering a large volume of LEED projects D. Comparing the ongoing operating performance of a building with its intended design performance

D. Comparing the ongoing operating performance of a building with its intended design performance This is Correct. EPA created ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, an online tool to measure and track energy and water consumption, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. Use it to benchmark the performance of one building or a whole portfolio of buildings against other similar buildings. Use it also to benchmark the performance of one building against itself over a period of several years.

What environmental issue is associated with refrigerants used in HVAC&R systems? A. Groundwater contamination B. Soil contamination C. Increased CO2 indoors D. Increasing greenhouse gas emissions

D. Increasing greenhouse gas emissions Refrigerants have ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP) due to greenhouse gas emissions. Low values of each are best for refrigerant choices.

During a LEED project when does commissioning take place? A. Discovery phase B. Pre-design phase C. Schematic design phase D. Substantial completion phase

D. Substantial completion phase This is Correct. Commissioning is "the process of verifying and documenting that a building and all of its systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the owner's project requirements." - USGBC The systems cannot be commissioned until they are installed. The process takes place prior to occupancy (usually) when the building is substantially completed. For example, all of the HVAC systems are in, the building has water and power, etc. Things that don't need to be in place are painting, carpets, tile, etc."