Up to four Innovation and Design credits can be achieved through exceptional performance above the requirements defined in the LEED-NC Green Building Rating System.

Requirements for Certification:

Identify the intent of the proposed innovation credit, requirement for compliance, design approach, and compliance documentation.

Successful Strategies:

• Energy Star Equipment
• Community Neighborhood Outreach
• Greenguard Furniture
• Green Housekeeping
• Waste stream diversion of unique materials
• Owner/Employer transportation exceedance
• Natural Pesticide / Landscape architect program
• Process H20 savings
• Fumehoods
• Long term Commissioning

Helpful Hints:

1. Innovation and Design credits are designed for applications of innovative technologies, market place transformation, education, as well as credit exceedance.
2. Project owners are usually the driving factor behind innovation and design credits in regards to audits, policies, actions, equipment, and education.

Historical Data (updated June 2006):

• 100% of all California LEED certified projects achieved at least one innovation credit for LEED v2.1.
• California LEED Certified projects averaged 3 innovation credits for LEED v2.1.

Additional EDR Resources

Online Tools: Design Charette

Case Studies: Building Case Study - A Biotech Lab and Office

Case Studies: Public Agency Demonstrates Resource Efficiency Through Innovative Design

Case Studies: Advanced Office Building Design