LEED stands for Leadership in Energy Efficient Design and is a rating system and agency that certifies buildings are sustainable. LEED, unlike Passive House, takes many factors beyond energy usage into account when certifying a project. Indoor air quality, material sourcing, recycled content, and construction techniques are among the many different ways a design can get points toward certification.
Deciding to attempt to build a LEED project is a big decision. While the cost of construction is likely to be a bit higher, there are significant increases associated with the administrative costs to properly document the design and construction to received certification.
Tom Klaber is a LEED Accredited Professional, and KDA would be happy to discuss LEED and other sustainable design strategies for your next project.
