By Bonnie L. Beutler
A “green” building is a building constructed, maintained or operated in accordance with energy-efficient performance standards established by various industry groups. The predominant standard is the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System which was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
LEED provides environmental guidelines for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings. Various degrees of construction can be certified by LEED, including new construction and major renovations, operations, maintenance, commercial interiors and the core structure. To be LEED certified, a project is registered and meets a minimum number of points. See www.usgbc.org/leed for information on becoming certified.
Aside from being good for the environment, owners and occupants may enjoy the following financial benefits:
- Energy-Efficiency. Green buildings save energy, waste, water, and other operational and maintenance costs. The energy-efficiency comes from products like thermopane glass windows, insulated radiators, power-saving plug load occupancy sensors, low flow toilets and landscaping that does not require irrigation. LEED certification also rewards ride-sharing and/or bike racks, electronic billing, the use of friendly cleaning products and planting trees for natural cooling.
- Health and Productivity. LEED certified buildings are often made of less toxic materials such as low-emitting adhesive, sealant and paint. In addition, building designs are likely to rely on window lighting instead of electric lighting. This allows for enhanced air quality and improved health for occupants, including reduced allergy and asthma problems. The natural light and air quality can also increase comfort and productivity. Employers benefit through lower employee insurance and unemployment costs.
- Property Value and Rental Value. Proponents argue that owners and tenants are willing to pay more for an energy-efficient building due to the low utility bills and the positive marketing. Owners and tenants can also use this third party endorsement to help market their business. Improved health, productivity and energy savings can be attractive to prospective tenants and certification can thus impact the price of a building and rents.
- Government Incentives and Requirements. Some states and cities offer government incentives for LEED certified buildings such as density bonuses, expedited permitting, fee reductions, tax breaks, grants, and free technical assistance. Michigan is headed in this direction. The state has begun requiring some government owned buildings to be LEED certified and its agencies to comply with energy analysis.
Proponents argue that green buildings will produce financial results. However, each owner or occupant must weigh the benefits and burdens. Investing in a green building or renting green space raises various legal issues. If you need assistance with the sale, purchase or lease of a green building, please contact us.
Note: While we focus on commercial buildings in this article, a LEED for Homes rating system can result in a LEED-H certification for a residence.
For further information regarding these matters, please contact Ms. Beutler at 248.740.5690 or
click here to send an email.
|
