What is the purpose of commissioning in the LEED certification process?

The purpose of commissioning in the LEED certification process is to ensure that a building's systems have been properly designed, installed, and are functioning according to the project requirements. Commissioning involves a systematic process to verify that all building systems operate as intended and meet the performance criteria established during the design phase. This process typically includes testing and fine-tuning equipment, training personnel, and documenting results. By validating that systems operate efficiently and effectively, commissioning helps improve the overall performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability of the building, which are core principles of LEED certification.

In contrast, enhancing aesthetic appeal, reducing the number of construction workers, or creating more complex building systems do not align with the primary goal of ensuring performance and functionality of building systems within the LEED framework.