While LEEDs and Energy Star programs allow for clean and/or efficient energy, neither program focuses on solar energy usage alone. For commercial real estate owners moving toward solar energy, this lack of certification creates a problem.
"It is important for owners and tenants to tout their building and office as clean energy space. To get the other certifications, it could costs hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars in renovation costs. This is a great program that shows people are taking the steps they can, now," said Ron Miller, partner at NAIBT Commercial.
XFactor Solar Certification measures several components including carbon offset, total power consumption from solar, peek load reduction, solar panel positioning, and other criteria. Buildings receive XFactor Solar Certification levels based on how they score in each area measured.
Currently, the highest level attainable is an XFactor of "7" for portfolio owners and an XFactor of "5" for single building owners. The company plans to add three more levels over the next two years.
"Our XFactor Solar Certification provides a path forward toward maximum carbon foot print reduction vis-à-vis our certification tiers," said Peter C. Fuller, solarX CMO. Owners can advertise their building as "certified" and tenants can market their businesses as environmentally friendly. It's a win-win situation for everyone.
SOLARDAILY
