EDGE Version 3.0 - What will be the impact?

On August 12, IFC team sent an official announcement that EDGE version 3.0 will replace the current version 2.1.5 starting 30 September 2021 as the primary version for certification. When a new version of such certification is launched, real estate owners/developers feel concerned how it will affect their current or future projects. But fear not, we will break it down to you so you can easily understand the differences.

1. Baseline data

   As in other voluntary green building certifications, EDGE updates its baseline data to the more updated ones, such as HVAC standars from ASHRAE 90.1-2007 to 90.1-2016. Some countries may have experience significant change as the local building codes upgraded dramatically.

2. Location

   Initially, EDGE focuses on pushing green building developments in developing countries, therefore not all of countries available in the dropdown. Following the understanding that to implement green buildings at scale a global effort was required, EDGE team has added all countries in the world in version 3.0.

3. Building typology

   New building typologies will be introduced in version 3.0. Apartment will be separated from Homes category, while Resorts and Serviced Apartments will be decoupled from Hotels category. A mixed-use development will also be the new option if you have building complexes with different functionality.

4. Efficiency Measures

   LED lighting is assumed as baseline in v3.0 and new measures are introduced into the savings strategy options, especially renewable energy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What will be impact if I have a project that certified with EDGE current version? You will have until December 2025 to complete the final certification.

2. I’m not sure i can surpass EDGE minimum savings requirement in version 3.0. I prefer to still use the current one, what should I do? You need to register the project before 30 September 2021. Contact us, so we can make it happen.

3. I’m not sure if i can get the board approval by end of September. Our project is equipped with the cutting-edge technology that I believe can meet the minimum saving requirement of EDGE version 3.0. What should we do? As the EDGE focuses on 3 resource efficiencies : Energy, Water, and Materials, certain steps must be taken to ensure all requirements are met. Sustainahaus’ sustainability consultant has more than 10 ongoing and completed EDGE projects that can help you to verify that your building is EDGE ready. Contact us for more information.