Which LEED credit encourages projects to set aggressive energy performance goals?

The correct answer is EAp2: Minimum Energy Performance. This credit is essential as it establishes the foundational energy performance expectations that all projects must meet in order to qualify for LEED certification. By setting a minimum threshold for energy performance, the credit incentivizes projects to exceed basic compliance and to implement proactive measures for energy efficiency.

This encourages teams to aim higher than just minimum code requirements, motivating them to explore innovative strategies and technologies that lead to superior energy performance. As a result, projects not only contribute to energy conservation but also reduce operational costs and improve comfort for occupants.

The other options do not specifically focus on setting aggressive energy performance goals. EAp1, while critical for optimizing energy performance, is aimed more at calculating and improving energy use rather than establishing the minimum performance standards necessary for certification. EAc1 refers to energy efficiency, broadly discussing practices for improving energy usage but not directly related to the goal-setting aspect. EQp1 deals with indoor air quality, which is essential for occupant health but does not pertain to energy performance objectives.