The intent of this credit is reduce ozone depletion and support early compliance with the Montreal Protocol while minimizing direct contributions to global warming.

Requirements for Certification:

Option 1 - Do not use refrigerants.

Option 2 - Select refrigerants and HVAC&R that minimize or eliminate the emission of compounds that contribute to ozone depletion and global warming. The base building HVAC&R equipment shall comply with the formula provided for this credit, which sets a maximum threshold for the combined contributions to ozone depletion and global warming potential.

AND - Do not install fire suppression systems that contain ozone-depleting substances (CFCs, HCFCs or Halons).

Successful Strategies:

• Complete the Template calculations early in design if considering more than one refrigerant.
• Consider non-refrigerant based cooling such as evaporative cooling in dry climates.

Helpful Hints:

1. Small HVAC units that are used to cool equipment support rooms, such as computer, telephone and data rooms, are not considered part of the base building system and are not subject to the requirements of this credit.
2. Evaporative cooling is a solution for dry climates that eliminates the need for refrigeration equipment.

Historical Data (updated June 2006):

• 55% of all California LEED Certified projects achieved this credit under LEED v2.1.

Additional EDR Resources

Design Briefs: Integrated Design for Small Commercial HVAC

Design Briefs: Air Conditioning & Ventilation

Design Briefs: Improving Mechanical System Energy Efficiency

Design Briefs: Integrated Building Design

Design Briefs: Chiller Plant Efficiency

Design Briefs: Radiant Cooling