Saving Energy through Using Green Rating System for Building Commissioning

Abstract

Finding solutions for energy saving has become one of the most demanding issues facing almost all the governments, decision makers and stakeholders all over the world. Energy saving solutions in building industry could be applied in all the construction phases – Pre-design, design, pre-construction, construction, and post-construction. Energy management in the post-construction (operation) phase - in particular - is the key point for energy saving. This paper is focusing on employing green rating systems to guide the process of the commissioning for buildings in order to save energy during the operation and maintenance of buildings. Moreover, the research highlights on the important process that should be taken into consideration during the other phases. LEED (Leadership for Environmental and Energy Design) is suggested and discussed here in order to be employed in this regard. The LEED fundamental commissioning system is discussed briefly while a detailed explanation for the processes, tasks and responsibilities of each stakeholder in building projects is presented. Commissioning helps to review Design Documentations and make recommendations to the design team and pertaining to functionality and workability of commissioned systems. In addition, it aids to review Owner Project Requirements (OPR) and Basis Of Design (BOD). This ensures the achievement of high levels of professionalism and technicalities in the different construction phases of buildings. The paper presents at the end a designed chart for the entire commissioning processes that can aid the process of assuring energy efficiency in buildings.