How does LEED encourage the use of on-site renewable energy?

LEED encourages the use of on-site renewable energy primarily by offering points for renewable energy generated on-site. This approach incentivizes project teams to invest in renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems, as a means to reduce their reliance on non-renewable sources and lower their overall environmental impact. By providing points for these actions, LEED not only promotes sustainability but also helps to significantly enhance the performance of buildings in terms of energy efficiency and carbon emissions reduction. This scoring system creates a tangible and measurable benefit for building developers and owners who make the commitment to utilize renewable energy resources.

Other options, although related to energy use, do not effectively foster the same level of commitment to on-site renewable energy. For instance, penalizing non-renewable energy use or discouraging fossil fuels may raise awareness of their impact but does not actively promote the installation and use of renewable technologies the way awarding points does. Requiring all energy to come from renewable sources is not a practical or achievable goal within the framework of LEED and does not reflect the reality of energy sourcing for many projects. Thus, the point system is a structured and incentivized way to encourage the adoption of renewable energy on-site.