AchievING LEED Certification with Daylight

Whole Building Energy Simulation (up to 18 points):

• Conduct a whole building energy simulation using approved simulation software. Compare the proposed building design with a baseline building design to demonstrate energy efficiency.
• HOW WE HELP: We strategize the perfect daylighting solution that reduces the need for artificial lighting that will contribute to energy savings and improve the Energy Use Intensity (EUI) performance. Our strategies focus on top-down daylighting opportunities that will compliment and supplement perimeter daylighting. Not only do we provide expertise on the appropriate daylighting systems, we optimize the daylighting design can help mitigate heat gain and reduce cooling loads, further contributing to energy efficiency.

Enhanced Commissioning (2 points):

• HOW WE HELP: Daylight Specialists can also assist with the “Enhanced Commissioning” credit, earning your project (2) additional points. We implement commissioning activities to verify that the daylighting systems are installed and function as intended. We document and demonstrate the performance of daylight-responsive controls and automatic daylight-dimming systems.

• Protect or Restore Habitat (1 point): We design daylighting strategies that minimize disruption to existing habitats and preserve natural features. We consider fenestration placement and shading devices to minimize bird collisions and wildlife disturbances. Daylighting devices also make indoor plant habitats significantly more viable which can contribute to your project being protected in perpetuity as a habitat area.
• Maximize Open Space (1 point): Our daylighting strategies can provide access to views and maximize outdoor open space.
• Heat-Island Reduction (1-5 points): Our tubular daylighting devices can be fitted alongside vegetated surfaces to reduce heat gain, and our skylights can be fitted with reflective materials that reduce heat absorption.
• Light Pollution Reduction (1-2 points): While daylighting inherently reduces light pollution, our daylighting design also considers the placement and orientation of windows, skylights, and other openings to maximize natural light while minimizing glare, sky glow, and light spillage. Our design can also influence exterior lighting strategies. By incorporating daylight-responsive lighting controls, artificial lighting can be automatically adjusted or dimmed in response to available natural light.

Daylight (1-2 points):

• Requirement: Achieve a specific target of daylight illumination in regularly occupied spaces.
  
• Measurement: Conduct daylight simulations using appropriate software tools to calculate and document the spatial daylight autonomy (sDA) and annual sunlight exposure (ASE) metrics. The sDA measures the percentage of the space that receives a certain level of daylight, while ASE measures the potential for excessive sunlight exposure.

Daylight Dimming (1 point):

• Requirement: Install daylight-responsive lighting controls that automatically adjust artificial lighting based on available daylight.
• Measurement: Implement a lighting control system that uses photosensors or other devices to monitor daylight levels. Demonstrate that the lighting system reduces artificial lighting output based on available daylight, achieving a specified percentage of lighting power savings.

Quality Views (1-2 points):

• Requirement: Provide a direct line of sight to the outdoors from regularly occupied spaces to promote daylight access and views to the exterior.
  
• Measurement: Calculate the view glazing area and ensure it meets the minimum requirements defined by the credit. Assess the depth of the daylight zone, which should extend a specified distance from the view glazing. Evaluate the use of glare-control devices to maintain visual comfort.

Quality Views for Schools (1-2 points):

• Requirement: Provide views to the outdoors in a significant portion of classrooms and learning spaces in educational projects.
  
• Measurement: Calculate the view glazing area, view width, and view depth to ensure compliance with the credit requirements. Evaluate the obstruction factors to ensure that views are unobstructed or minimally obstructed.

Daylighting Design Innovations (2-5 Points):

• Implement innovative daylighting design strategies that go beyond standard practices, such as unique window configurations, light redirecting devices, or innovative shading solutions.
• Use advanced daylight modeling techniques or simulations to optimize daylight performance and demonstrate superior design outcomes.
• Integrate advanced technologies, such as smart sensors or adaptive control systems, to enhance daylighting performance and energy savings.

Daylighting Performance Monitoring (1-3 Points):

• Employ advanced monitoring systems to measure and analyze the actual performance of daylighting strategies in terms of illuminance levels, glare control, or energy savings.
• Demonstrate the effectiveness of daylighting design through post-occupancy evaluations and occupant feedback, showcasing the positive impacts on well-being, comfort, and productivity.

Daylighting Research and Development (1-2 Points):

• Contribute to industry knowledge and innovation by conducting research and development projects focused on improving daylighting technologies, materials, or design methodologies.
• Collaborate with academic institutions or research organizations to explore new advancements in daylighting science, leading to improved performance and energy efficiency.

Daylighting Education and Outreach (1-5 Points):

• Develop educational programs or workshops that raise awareness about the benefits of daylighting and promote its integration into sustainable building design.
• Share project case studies and lessons learned regarding successful daylighting strategies to inspire and inform other building professionals.