LEED v4: What's New?
The next version of the LEED green building rating system has been under development for three years, focusing on market transformation, and we’ve been a big part of it’s development. What’s New? Plenty.
The Name Changed and It’s Delayed
Welcome to LEED v4! Previously called LEED 2012, the name has changed to reflect the strong role LEED has played in the global marketplace. The USGBC announced LEED v4 would be delayed until June 2013 to give project teams a chance to become more familiar with v4, provide time for feedback, and allow for greater refinement for a better user experience. LEED 2009 will continue to be available for use until June 2015.
LEED v4 is in Beta Testing until November of 2013. During Beta Testing project teams will review tools and resources to help make refinements. It will then go to a Ballot in June of 2013. The ballot period allows for members to vote on changes and offers an open platform for feedback.
Wood Controversy Continues
Lobbying groups argue that the Certified Wood credit supports imported materials and thus the international job market at the expense of domestic jobs. These are serious political charges in an election year! Government entities are being pressured to examine the applicability of other green building certification options because of the jobs issues.
Nobody Likes the Chemicals!
One of the most significant changes in LEED v4 is a credit that gives points for the exclusion of hazardous chemicals in building materials, most notably Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). Despite being solid performers in construction, the production of PVC material is toxic and results in known carcinogens, thus LEED v4 offers credit for the consideration of healthier alternatives. Chemical associations are advocating against LEED’s position of exclusion.
It’s Too Hard to Save Energy
LEED v4 incorporates an updated version of the ASHRAE’s Standard 90.1, the standard for energy consumption in commercial buildings, which many feel is too costly to attain on a wide scale. The LEED v4 prerequisite includes achieving ASHARE 90.1, 2010 plus 5%. Originally, the USGBC had included a 90.1 plus 10% prerequisite, which would eliminate about 39% of current LEED projects from eligibility. After taking some heat, they succumbed to pressure and landed on a plus 5%, which is still better than code.
How We've Been Involved
Apollo BBC, our parent company, focuses on the technical performance aspects of buildings. One of our major service lines involves offering builders, owners, and designers LEED Consulting and Management services. We've helped certify close to 8 million square feet of building space on over 60 projects nationwide. Learn more about Apollo BBC and the buildings we've guided to certification.