New building efficiency rating system

The two biggest standards on energy efficiency ratings have been Energy Star and LEED. However, a new rating system developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers that could be the new standard. The ASHRAE rates buildings on letter grades concerning only energy efficiency. Possible grades range from an A+ (totally self-sustaining building) to a C (building that uses 30 percent less energy than one that meets the general code). Some building owners and designers are not excited about the new rating system as it could create more complications to an already sophisticated design area. However, by having more specific certifications that take the whole buildings life cycle into account could push us to reach the 2030 goal even quicker.

More about the ASHRAE can be found on their website and an article in the DJC Oregon