Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.2

Inquiry

Based upon the LEED-NC Version 2.2 (dated December 2004) draft, we would like for the USGBC to interpret whether or not fulfilling the second submittal option in SS Credit 4.3: Alternative Transportation - Low Emitting and Fuel Efficient Vehicles, would fulfill the requirements and intent of LEED Version 2.1 credit for Alternative Fuel Vehicles. The proposed revision to the requirement notes, ". . . that preferred parking for low emitting and fuel efficient vehicles is being provided for at least 5% of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site." We believe that this option will satisfy all intents of this credit as described in the CIR Ruling dated 9/20/02, which is to "reduce the use of crude-oil fuel-based vehicles." In our proposed project submittal, we would include site drawings/a parking plan, and a parking management plan as described in the LEED-NC Version 2.2 submittal option. Our reasoning is as follows: Since LEED-NC Version 2.1 was authored, the automobile industry has shifted design & production efforts from electrically powered vehicles, to self-sustaining gas/electric hybrids. Resultantly, the intent and requirements of Version 2.1 does not appear to be amenable with industry production and market-based availability; rendering this requirement functionally unachievable for integration and application. As it is the intent of the requirement to limit fossil-fuel consumption, promoting and benefiting such, we contend LEED-NC Version 2.2 SS: Credit 4.3 adopts this very strategy, and fulfills the intent of the Version 2.1 credit; encouraging use of hybrid & highly fuel-efficient vehicles. Does the USGBC deem this alternative approach satisfactory to fulfill the requirements of LEED-NC Version 2.1 SS Credit 4.3? If the USGBC does not feel this approach meets the requirements of the Credit, would it reasonably qualify for a Innovative Design Credit?