What is the key difference of an ENERGY STAR® certified building and a LEED certified building?

ENERGY STAR^® is a performance-based certification that is awarded to the top 25% of the most energy-efficient U.S. buildings of its type. Achieving the ENERGY STAR^® means that there is performance evidence based on energy efficiency and indoor air quality that has been certified by a professional engineer and reviewed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Performance Services has assisted building owners to achieve the ENERGY STAR^® certification for more than 153 buildings. We support and submit the application to help our clients gain the recognition and prestige their successful efforts deserve.

LEED is a design-based certification developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) to encourage good building practices and help promote sustainability for both new and existing (LEED-EB) buildings. LEED recognizes sustainable design in six key areas of human and environmental health. The resulting actual performance of the building is not considered or measured when a building is awarded the designation. Nearly 50% of LEED points are based on Energy Star criteria.