How many credits can be earned from the Cooling Tower Water Use?

Cooling Tower Water Use in the context of LEED V4 refers to optimizing the performance and efficiency of cooling towers through reduced water consumption, which can contribute significantly to a building's sustainability goals. The credit allows for earning points for using water more efficiently in cooling tower operations, specifically focusing on strategies that enhance conservation.

The correct range of credits that can be earned from this category is positioned at 1-2, which aligns with the requirements for achieving points based on water savings compared to a baseline performance that is established. Implementing strategies that reduce the amount of potable water used for cooling tower make-up water can yield one point for meeting the standard. An additional point can be earned for exceeding the standard, such as when a project implements advanced water treatment systems or utilizes alternate sources of water such as recycled or non-potable water.

This structure encourages projects to not only meet baseline requirements but also to strive for higher efficiency and innovative practices that go beyond standard measures. The potential for earning these credits reinforces the importance of water conservation and sustainable water management within the scope of building design and operation.