BOMA Energy Management & Sustainability Flashcards

What is the ENERGY STAR score used to measure in commercial buildings?

Answer: A 1-100 score benchmarking a building's energy performance against similar buildings nationally

ENERGY STAR scores rate building energy performance on a 1-100 scale, with 50 representing median performance and 75+ qualifying for ENERGY STAR certification, comparing buildings of similar type and climate.

What does LEED certification assess in commercial buildings?

Answer: Sustainable design and construction practices across energy, water, materials, and indoor environment quality

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system that evaluates sustainability across multiple categories including energy efficiency, water use, materials, and occupant health.

In building energy management, what is an 'energy audit' designed to accomplish?

Answer: Systematically identify energy waste, inefficiencies, and cost-saving opportunities in building systems

An energy audit systematically examines all building systems and operations to identify where energy is being wasted and prioritize improvements based on potential savings and payback periods.

What is a 'building automation system' (BAS) primarily used for in commercial buildings?

Answer: Centralized monitoring and control of HVAC, lighting, and other building systems to optimize performance and energy use

A BAS (also called a building management system or BMS) provides centralized control of HVAC, lighting, fire safety, and other systems, enabling automated energy optimization and remote monitoring.

What does 'energy use intensity' (EUI) measure in commercial buildings?

Answer: Annual energy consumption per square foot of floor area, expressed in kBtu/sq ft/year

EUI normalizes energy consumption by building size, allowing meaningful comparison of energy performance across buildings of different sizes by measuring kBtu (or kWh) consumed per square foot annually.

Which BOMA initiative specifically helps building owners reduce energy consumption through benchmarking and best practices sharing?

Answer: BOMA 360 Performance Program

The BOMA 360 Performance Program is a building designation that recognizes commercial properties operating at the highest standards across six major areas including energy management and sustainability.