OUC Can Help You Pursue LEED Certification

OUC—The Reliable One values environmental stewardship and energy efficiency and is committed to sustainable new construction and the resulting long-term benefits to our customers and community. OUC’s Reliable Plaza headquarters was the first Gold Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certified building in downtown Orlando, and Florida Water Star certified. The non-profit U.S. Green Building Council awarded the Gold level certification after completing a review of the building’s design and construction. We’re focused on helping others join our ranks.

Interested in LEED Certification?

Contact our Conservation Team by clicking the form button below or call 407-434-2256.

What is LEED?

Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) is a reputable rating and certification program, honoring the design, construction and operation of high performance green structures and neighborhoods. Environmentally sensitive site planning, resource efficient building materials and indoor environmental quality minimize adverse impacts that design, construction and maintenance can have on people and the environment.

Why LEED?

It’s easy to see how sustainable building practices are good for the community and the environment, but did you know they can also be good for business? Lower electric and water utility costs, enhanced occupant health and productivity, and long-term economic returns are just some of the benefits that can affect a business’s bottom line.

We Can Help You Pursue LEED Certification

OUC customers planning to build a green project are eligible for financial incentives, which include a reduction in System Development Charge (SDC) for domestic water and irrigation. SDCs are designed to recover a portion of the investment required for water system facilities growth, where applicable. This charge is based on the associated customer capacity requirements, which are measured in Equivalent Residential Connections (ERCs). Additional incentives include:

Solar Hot Water Rebate
OUC offers a $500 rebate to customers who install a solar hot water system.

Energy Audit
OUC offers free small business energy audits and the Business Energy Advisor, an online library that provides information to help you make smart decisions like equipment-buying advice, equipment maintenance tips, and low-cost solutions.

Energy Management Systems
This tool provides commercial customers with an approach to view their historical energy interval consumption data through a usage dashboard.

Custom Incentive Program
OUC offers financial incentives to businesses that install energy efficient upgrades in their facilities.

Multifamily Efficiency Program
Turnkey solution for multifamily property owners to improve energy and water efficiency in their communities.

Chilled Water (OUCooling)
District cooling service for large buildings and high density complexes.

Commercial Interior Lighting Upgrade Program (OUConvenient Lighting)
Provides an on-bill solution for lighting upgrades in existing buildings to lower building operating costs.

Sustainability is Good for Business

It’s easy to see how sustainable building practices are good for the community and the environment, but did you know they can also be good for business? Lower electric and water utility costs, enhanced occupant health and productivity and long-term economic returns are just some of the benefits businesses can realize on their bottom line. Green rating systems help to clarify sustainable building practices and can vary according to project type. The most active rating systems are:

Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC)
Find designation processes, standards, reference guides, checklists, and a list of projects that have applied for or received a FGBC certification

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Find detailed information on the LEED program and project certification process.

The Florida Green Lodging Program
Find more information on the Florida Green Lodging Program.

ENERGY STAR - US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Find more information on the ENERGY STAR© program and innovative energy performance tips for homes and business.

Florida Water Star Program
Find more information about the program and the project certification process.

Achieving Green Certification

The following table shows the various products and services offered by OUC that have the potential to contribute to credit points toward any green certification of your choice

Interested in LEED Certification?

Contact our Conservation Team by clicking the form button below or call 407-434-2256.

OUC can be a powerful partner for your business or organization.  In addition to providing the reliable services your company runs on, OUC can assist you in growing or promoting your business here in Central Florida. For example, members of our Preferred Contractor Network not only receive OUC’s stamp of approval, they’re also authorized to offer OUC’s point-of-sale rebates to customers. OUC has a variety of programs to show your business how to save energy and water and make a real impact on your bottom line. Then we can help you share your company’s sustainability story with our community.  So whether you’re looking to build your business or simply show your commitment to the environment, OUC can help you get the word out with some creative co-marketing opportunities. 

See how some area businesses have teamed up with OUC:

• Lake Nona
• Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A.
• Nemours Children’s Hospital
• Orlando Science Center

OUC is continuously working to enhance our economic development offerings; OUC currently provides assistance in the following areas:

• Deposit assistance for eligible existing customers who are enhancing their current facilities within the OUC service territory.
• Upon review of your potential project, OUC may provide fee waiver consideration according to OUC economic development criteria.
• Site re-use credits may be available to projects looking to re-establish a new business to a previously developed site.

To see if your project qualifies for these offerings please contact the OUC Economic Development team at EconomicDevelopment@ouc.com for eligibility requirements and criteria.