When calculating building energy performance, what type of energy is included as process energy?

Process energy refers to the energy consumed by systems and equipment that directly contribute to the functioning of a building's processes, typically beyond just heating, cooling, or lighting. This category includes any energy used by equipment that enables the core activities within a building, such as machinery, appliances, and electronic devices.

In this context, washing machines and desktop computers clearly fall within the definition of process energy because they directly impact the operational effectiveness and productivity of the building's intended functions. These types of equipment are specific to the processes that the building serves—whether it's laundry services, office tasks, or manufacturing activities.

Heating systems typically classify under HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) energy use, which is managed separately from process energy. Similarly, lighting fixtures are categorized under electrical energy use for illumination, which is distinct from process energy. Natural gas used for cooking can be topical in some contexts, but it often falls more under the umbrella of building energy use rather than process energy.

Thus, by identifying washing machines and desktop computers as process energy, we align with the understanding of energy performance that encompasses the total energy impact from operational activities within a building, adhering to LEED's focus on comprehensive energy efficiency and resource management.