Which LEED credit is specifically designed to promote energy efficiency in mechanical systems?

The credit aimed at promoting energy efficiency in mechanical systems is EAc1: Optimize Energy Performance. This credit focuses on enhancing the energy performance of buildings by improving both the energy efficiency of their mechanical systems and the overall energy use of the facility. It encourages projects to implement strategies that lead to energy savings, such as optimizing HVAC systems, improving insulation, and utilizing energy-efficient lighting. Achieving this credit often involves conducting energy modeling and assessments to demonstrate significant improvements over a baseline performance.

While the other credits listed do have their own merits and focus on related areas, they do not specifically target energy efficiency in mechanical systems to the extent that EAc1 does. For instance, Enhanced Commissioning is more about ensuring that building systems are designed and installed correctly, Measurement and Verification relates to tracking energy performance over time, and Demand Response focuses on reducing peak energy usage rather than directly improving the efficiency of mechanical systems.