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 145 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.