What is the role of on-site renewable energy in LEED EA credits?

• A. On-site generation can contribute to energy performance and reduce grid energy use.
• B. It has no impact on LEED credits.
• C. On-site generation is not allowed in LEED projects.
• D. It only affects indoor air quality.

Answer: (C)

On-site renewable energy is recognized by LEED as a way to directly offset a building’s energy use. When you generate energy on the site—such as with solar photovoltaics or other renewables—you reduce the amount of energy drawn from the grid. That reduction lowers the building’s annual site energy, which LEED accounts for in the Energy and Atmosphere credits. Projects can earn points by improving energy performance and, specifically, through credits that reward Renewable Energy Production (and, separately, Green Power/Carbon Offsets). This means on-site generation is allowed, encouraged, and has a real impact on LEED credit achievement. It’s not about indoor air quality; that’s a different aspect of LEED.