Multiple Units
Projects with multiple units can have separate performance periods if the individual units have separate and dedicated renewable energy infrastructure and energy use metering. If renewable energy infrastructure is shared, then the performance period must be the same to ensure the renewables meet the demand for all units.
Multi-tenant Commercial Spaces
To address the reality of leasing rates of commercial spaces with multiple tenants, a minimum of 85% of the gross building area must be occupied in order to be considered “fully occupied” and begin the 12-month performance period. To compensate for any unoccupied areas, documentation must show the proportionate energy usage for the occupied area. For example, if 85% of the gross floor area is occupied during the performance period, then the energy data must show that the project is using no more than 85% of the energy produced.
Common areas are considered “occupied” if they are fully functional (i.e., lit, conditioned, etc.). Spaces must be occupied and used as intended, not just leased, to contribute to the 85% threshold.
Small fluctuations in occupancy during the performance period are not monitored by this certification. If the occupancy of leased areas dips below the 85% threshold for more than one month, the performance data must reflect that fluctuation (i.e., resource use decreased proportionally, indicating that sufficient water and/or energy was available to support 100% occupancy).
System Adjustments
The performance period requires 12 consecutive months of the project demonstrating compliance at full occupancy. Any consecutive 12-month performance period may be used as long as the building is fully occupied, as defined above. It is acceptable to make system adjustments as necessary during the 12-month performance period to meet project goals.
