The energy-related expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented before the design phase of the project. This documentation shall include the following:
1. Energy efficiency goals.
2. Ventilation requirements.
3. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation.
4. Equipment and systems expectations.
The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during pre-design and used to develop the BOD during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.
Compliance is demonstrated by the owner or owner’s representative developing and/or approving the OPR document before the design phase begins. At a minimum, the following components should be included in the OPR:
A. Energy Efficiency Goals – Establish goals and targets affecting energy efficiency which may include:
1. Overall energy efficiency (exceeding Title 24 by %).Lighting system efficiency (exceeding Title 24 by %).
2. HVAC equipment efficiency & characteristics.
3. Any other measures affecting energy efficiency desired by the owner
a. Building orientation and siting
b. Daylighting
c. Facade, envelope and fenestration
d. Roof
e. Natural ventilation
f. Onsite renewable power generation and zero net energy use
g. Landscaping and shading
B. Ventilation Requirements - Describe indoor ventilation requirements including intended use and anticipated schedule for each program space.
C. Project Program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation – Describe primary purpose, program, and use of proposed project, such as:
1. Building size, number of stories, construction type, occupancy type, and number.
2. Building program areas including intended use and anticipated occupancy schedules.
3. Future expandability and flexibility of spaces.
4. Quality and/or durability of materials and building lifespan desired.
5. Budget or operational constraints.
6. Applicable codes.
D. Equipment and Systems Expectations – For each system commissioned describe the following:
1. Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, automation, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired.
2. Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies, or preferred manufacturers for building systems.
3. Degree of system integration, automation, and functionality for controls (i.e. load shedding, demand response, and energy management)
E. Building Envelope Performance Expectations – For each assembly that contains a special feature describe the following:
1. Assembly type, such as, floors, foundations, walls, ceilings, and roofs.
2. Characteristic that merits special attention.
F. Enforcement - At their discretion, the building official confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Review by either:
1. Receipt of a copy of the OPR document (optional).
2. Receipt of a completed NRCC-CXR-01-E indicating the OPR was reviewed at the Design Review Kickoff.