LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

Regulated (or non-process) energy includes which of the following?

1. Kitchen cooking equipment

2. Elevators

3. HVAC systems

4. Laundry equipment

The correct answer is: HVAC systems

Regulated energy, also referred to as non-process energy, typically encompasses energy usage that is closely associated with the building's operation and systems that are designed to provide comfort, lighting, and overall functionality. This includes systems essential for maintaining a suitable indoor environment. HVAC systems fall squarely within the definition of regulated energy because they are integral to controlling heating, cooling, and ventilation in the building. Their energy consumption is predictable and can be directly affected by design decisions, climate considerations, and operational choices. In contrast, kitchen cooking equipment, elevators, and laundry equipment generally represent energy uses that can be categorized as process energy or related to specific functions within the building that do not contribute directly to the controlled environment for occupants. For example, the energy consumption of kitchen equipment is often driven by operational needs rather than the design and construction decisions that control building performance. Understanding the distinction between regulated and non-regulated energy is crucial for LEED certification, as it influences energy modeling and compliance with energy performance standards.