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

Which of the following is a prescriptive compliance path outlined by ASHRAE?

1. Whole building lifecycle analysis

2. Energy Star Ratings

3. ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide

4. Green Globes Certification

The correct answer is: ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide

The ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide is a prescriptive compliance path because it provides clear specifications and approaches for achieving energy efficiency in building design and construction. This guide outlines prescriptive measures that designers and builders can implement to meet or exceed the energy efficiency requirements set forth by ASHRAE. It serves as a practical tool that includes detailed recommendations on various building system components, enabling professionals to comply with energy performance goals without having to engage in complex performance modeling. In contrast, whole building lifecycle analysis focuses on a broader assessment of a building's environmental impact over its entire lifespan, rather than providing specific prescriptive measures. Energy Star Ratings serve as a performance-based certification rather than a prescriptive pathway, relying on actual operational data to validate energy efficiency. Green Globes Certification is another performance-based rating system that evaluates a building's sustainability based on several criteria but does not dictate prescriptive measures like the ASHRAE guide does. Thus, the ASHRAE 50% Advanced Energy Design Guide stands out as the correct choice for a prescriptive compliance path.