LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is a system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to assess the environmental sustainability of buildings and communities.
It is widely recognized worldwide as a means to encourage the construction and operation of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.
LEED certification holds significant importance as it fosters environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and human well-being in building design and construction. Furthermore, it aids in mitigating adverse environmental impacts and encourages a more conscientious and responsible approach to the built environment.
In total, LEED certification assesses buildings based on six criteria:
– Sustainability in construction materials and resources.
– Efficiency in water usage, both during construction and throughout the building’s intended purpose, such as water reuse and leak prevention, is crucial.
– Energy efficiency has been a priority since the construction phase, with a strong emphasis on minimizing its atmospheric impact.
– Use of environmentally friendly materials and resources.
– The quality of the interior environment is paramount, enabling optimal habitability without the need for excessive energy consumption for heating or cooling purposes.
– The design process places a strong emphasis on innovation, giving utmost importance to all eco-efficient resources.
There are four distinct types of energy certification that are awarded based on the credits assigned or score achieved for each building: LEED Platinum, LEED Gold, LEED Silver, and the standard LEED certificate.
At Arce Clima, we consider ourselves fortunate to have had the opportunity to work on various projects that have attained top-notch qualifications. Allow us to share a few notable examples with you.
Commercial premises with LEED gold certification in Plaza Cataluña
Nestled in the heart of Plaza de Cataluña, the central hub of the city, stands a majestic masterpiece – a 9-story architectural marvel rich in history and grandeur. This flagship establishment not only boasts breathtaking design, but also embraces a commitment to environmentally responsible practices, earning itself the prestigious LEED gold certification.
What sets this project apart from the others undertaken by the ownership group is its unique nature, demanding a fully customized installation tailored specifically for this remarkable venture.
At the time, we implemented high-efficiency machinery strategically divided into zones to meet the stringent standards set by the LEED certification. However, we encountered an interesting challenge when faced with the unique circumstance of three facades being exposed to varying climatic conditions owing to their distinct orientations.
By doing so, we successfully accomplish our goal of enhancing air quality while consistently ensuring optimal comfort temperatures are maintained.
Two flagship stores with LEED platinum certification in Valencia
The process involved in these buildings was truly comprehensive. It all began with a thorough evaluation conducted by a consulting firm, which provided us with a detailed checklist of prerequisites that needed to be fulfilled in order to determine the certification we could potentially attain. Subsequently, we formally applied for certification from the esteemed US Green Building Council, who eventually awarded us with the highest possible recognition: LEED Platinum, a testament to our exceptional achievement.
When it comes to the air conditioning and ventilation system of this flagship establishment, meticulous attention has been given to ensure optimal thermal insulation and enveloping of the premises. Additionally, the ventilation level is intelligently controlled based on the occupancy of the space, thanks to the utilization of CO2 probes. The installed equipment is equipped with energy-efficient inverters, empowering them to dynamically adjust the load rate in response to the demand for cooling or heating.
Eco-efficient office building
This office building covers an expansive area of 67,000 square meters, spread across five above-ground floors and two underground levels designated for parking. Notably, it has achieved the prestigious LEED Platinum certification, signifying its unparalleled commitment to energy efficiency.
In this particular scenario, the installation of the air conditioning system for the entire building was meticulously executed, alongside the implementation of a comprehensive smoke detection, ventilation, and extraction system within the parking areas.
The air conditioning system, comprising of remarkably energy-efficient cold beams, effectively delivers heating, cooling, and ventilation to the premises throughout the year, ensuring optimal comfort regardless of the season.
The production plant consists of air-condensed heat pumps with multipurpose functionality, providing a total cooling power of 2,200 KW. Hot and cold water is then distributed throughout the building via steel pipes, which are connected to each floor through well-designed studs, ensuring efficient temperature control in every part of the building.
If you’re interested in learning more about these projects and delving into the realm of energy efficiency, whether it’s for your own project or simply to expand your knowledge, please feel free to leave any questions you may have in the comments section.