Incentives for Building Commissioning

Projects that are receiving funding under any part of the Commercial Construction Program may be eligible for cost sharing for building commissioning. The basic purpose of building commissioning is to provide documented confirmation that building systems function in compliance with criteria set forth in the Project Documents to satisfy the owner's operational needs. The benefits of commissioning include optimized efficiency of energy consuming systems, facilities that have better operation and maintenance programs, fewer construction deficiencies, greater occupant comfort, improved project coordination and reduced construction costs.

Eligibility

• determined on a case-by-case basis
• generally for projects whose incentives are expected to exceed $50,000
• examples of projects that are good candidates for commissioning include

• large chillers [greater than 300 tons] that are part of a chiller plant
• complex energy management systems
• projects that are participating under the Whole Building Design Approach
• LEED Green Buildings

Incentives
LIPA will provide cost sharing for commissioning services through one of its Technical Assistants [TA]. These TAs are firms who have specific experience performing systems and whole building commissioning. The amount of co-funding for commissioning is based on several factors and is limited to the lesser of the following...

• 75% of the Commercial Construction Program incentive
• 50% of the commissioning cost for electric energy related systems [e.g., LIPA will not fund commissioning for fuel fired heating systems or for non energy systems such as a security system]
• a maximum of $50,000.

Resources and References

• United States Green Building Council
• Advanced Energy Design Guides
• High Performance Design Guide
• Commissioning for Better Buildings