RA3: Energy Efficiency Measures – Above Green

Intent

The intent of this indicator is to improve environmental performance within a portfolio, focusing on opportunities to increase the energy efficiency of assets.

This indicator examines measures (or projects) undertaken to reduce the portfolio’s energy consumption. Usually, the implementation of these measures is the result of technical building assessments, which are focused on investigating the energy use and requirements of the building based on its characteristics and installed equipment.

This indicator is tracked at the asset level and is meant to evaluate the ongoing activity in the portfolio. For this reason, participants are required to report the activity over the last 3 years. The efficiency measures categories allow the reporting of a variety of measures on a TRUE/FALSE basis. While efficiency measures implemented more than three years ago are still relevant, their effect is be reflected in the consumption data reported in the Energy, GHG, Water, Waste Aspects.

Requirements

Energy efficiency measures implemented in the last three years

The indicator below is automatically populated by GRESB based on information provided through the reporting entity’s GRESB Asset Portal. Participants can access the Asset Portal via the Assessment Portal menu, section ASSETS.

In 2020, participants are required to report their energy efficiency measures at the asset-level through the completion of the GRESB Asset Spreadsheet. Note that all fields in RA3 will be automatically populated once the GRESB Asset Spreadsheet is completed and uploaded to the Asset Portal. Efficiency measures implemented in the last three years should be reported, regardless of the period of ownership and/or operational control.

It is recommended to:

Prepare and upload your GRESB Asset Spreadsheet into your Assessment;
Review all fields in RA3 to ensure they are accurate and complete.

Validation

This indicator is subject to automatic validation.

See Appendix 2a for additional information about GRESB Validation.

Scoring

1.5 points, E

Scoring is based on the number of efficiency measures reported.

See the Scoring Document for additional information on scoring.

Terminology

Building automation system upgrades/replacements: Refers to the computer-based centralized system installed in buildings that controls and monitors equipment such as ventilation, airconditioning, heating, lighting, alarms and communications.

Upgrades and replacements refers to the process of ensuring the building automation system is operating at full capacity, as to achieve optimal management of systems and increase energy efficiency.

Building energy management system: Computer‐based automated systems that monitor and control all energy‐related systems, including all mechanical and electrical equipment in buildings.

Installation of high-efficient equipment and electrical appliances: Specification and purchase of electrical equipment and appliances that minimize the building‘s energy needs. This includes, but it is not limited to: energy efficient lighting upgrades/replacements and HVAC system upgrades/replacements.

Installation of on-site renewable energy: Renewable energy produced on-site, to meet some or all of the building’s energy requirements.

Measure: The actual project or activity undertaken/implemented to improve energy efficiency as part of the selected category.

Occupier engagement/informational technologies: Communication and information technologies implemented to inform and engage with tenants in regards to their energy use.

Smart grid/smart building technologies: Computer-based control and automation of electricity network systems, to support and manage electricity demand in a sustainable, integrated manner.

System commissioning: The process of ensuring that systems are designed, installed, and functionally tested, and that they are capable of being operated and maintained to perform optimally.

References

ISO 50001:2011 Energy Management Systems

LEED BD+C: Core and Shell, v4, Optimize Energy Performance LEED O+M: Existing Buildings, v4, Alternative Transportation

EPRA Best Practices Recommendations on Sustainability Reporting, 3rd version, September 2017: 7.9, Narrative on performance

SASB-Real Estate Owners, Developers & Investment Trusts (March 2016): IF0402-05

Recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures June 2017: Strategy A&B