EDGE-Expert Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE Expert) Exam Questions and Answers

EDGE Auditors must adhere to strict protocols ensuring that all claimed measures are supported by verifiable evidence, especially during audits. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols state: "If a claimed measure, such as water-efficient faucets, lacks supporting documentation like specifications or manufacturer’s data sheets, the Auditor must exclude the measure from the project assessment. The Auditor is not permitted to test equipment, substitute evidence, or mandate replacements, as their role is to verify, not rectify, the Client’s submission" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.2: Evidence Verification). Option A, exclude the faucets from the project, aligns with this protocol, as the lack of specifications prevents verification. Option B (test the faucets’ flow rates) is incorrect, as Auditors cannot conduct tests: "Auditors are not responsible for testing equipment; they must rely on provided documentation" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option C (require the owner to replace the faucets) oversteps the Auditor’s role: "Auditors cannot mandate changes to the project; they assess what is submitted" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). Option D (find a product with the same parameters) is also prohibited: "Auditors cannot substitute or assume evidence on behalf of the Client" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.2: Evidence Verification). Thus, the Auditor should exclude the faucets (Option A).

The EDGE methodology quantifies the impact of water efficiency measures like rainwater harvesting and recycled water by comparing the Improved Case to the Base Case. The EDGE Methodology Report states: "Recycled water or rainwater harvested on site reduces the building’s potable water demand in the Improved Case. This reduction is deducted from the Improved Case water consumption and reported as water savings in the EDGE software, reflecting the volume of potable water no longer required due to the measure" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 4.2: Water Savings Calculations). Option B, water savings, accurately reflects this reporting method, as the software highlights the reduction in potable water use as a saving. Option A (water usage) is incorrect, as this term refers to the total consumption, not the reduction: "Water usage in EDGE refers to the total volume consumed, not the savings achieved" (EDGE User Guide, Glossary). Option C (wastewater) is unrelated, as it refers to water output, not savings: "Wastewater is water discharged from the building, not a savings metric" (EDGE User Guide, Glossary). Option D (potable water) is also incorrect, as the measure reduces potable water use, but the reported metric is the saving, not the potable water itself: "Potable water demand is an input, while savings are the output" (EDGE User Guide, Section 5.2: Water Efficiency Measures). Thus, the correct reporting is water savings (Option B).

The roles and responsibilities in the EDGE certification process are clearly defined to ensure a streamlined audit process. The EDGE Certification Protocol explicitly assigns the responsibility for providing documentation to support green building measures: "The EDGE Client is responsible for providing a full set of documentation to support each green building measure selected in the project assessment. This includes drawings, specifications, manufacturer’s data sheets, and any other evidence required by the Auditor to verify compliance with the EDGE standard during both the design and post-construction stages" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.1: Certification Process). Option A, the Client, directly aligns with this requirement, as the Client (typically the project owner or developer) is the primary party submitting the project for certification and must provide all necessary evidence. Option B (the Facility Manager) is incorrect because the Facility Manager’s role is operational, not related to certification documentation: "Facility Managers may assist with operational data for EDGE Zero Carbon certification but are not responsible for providing design or construction documentation" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 2.3: Certification Levels). Option C (the Building Inspector) is also incorrect, as this role is external to the EDGE process and not involved in certification: "Building Inspectors ensure compliance with local codes, not EDGE requirements" (EDGE User Guide, Glossary). Option D (the project design team) may prepare documentation, but the responsibility lies with the Client to submit it: "While the design team often prepares technical documents, it is the Client’s responsibility to compile and provide them to the Auditor as part of the certification process" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.1: Roles of EDGE Client). The EDGE User Guide further reinforces this by stating: "The Client must ensure all supporting documentation is complete and accessible to the Auditor to avoid delays in the certification process" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.2: Documentation Requirements). Therefore, the Client (Option A) is responsible for providing the full set of documentation for the audit.

EDGE Auditors are bound by ethical protocols to maintain professionalism and independence when encountering issues like misleading information. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols outline the procedure: "If an EDGE Auditor discovers misleading or incorrect information during an audit,they must contact the design team to recommend that they provide updated and correct information to the Client. The Auditor should document the issue in the audit report but must not adjust the assessment themselves or take punitive actions, ensuring the process remains transparent and fair" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.3: Handling Discrepancies). Option B, contacting the design team to recommend updated information, aligns with this protocol. Option A (negotiate a friendly solution) violates the Auditor’s impartiality: "Auditors must avoid direct negotiations that could compromise their independence" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). Option C (warn the Client of deception) oversteps the Auditor’s role by assigning blame: "Auditors should not accuse parties of deception but focus on facilitating corrections" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.3: Handling Discrepancies). Option D (reject and adjust the assessment) is incorrect, as Auditors cannot modify assessments: "Auditors must assess the project as submitted and cannot reject or adjust measures on their own" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Thus, recommending corrections to the design team (Option B) is the appropriate action.

The EDGE Auditor’s submission for Preliminary Certification (design stage) must include specific elements to support the recommendation for certification. The EDGE Certification Protocol specifies: "For Preliminary Certification, the EDGE Auditor’s submission must include compliance documents for the selected measures, such as drawings, specifications, and manufacturer’s data sheets, which verify that the design aligns with the self-assessment in the EDGE software. These documents are reviewed by the Certification Provider to confirm eligibility" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option C, compliance documents for selected measures, directly matches this requirement. Option A (all available design data) is too broad and not required: "Only documents directly related to the selected measures are needed, not all design data" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option B (Chapter 5 EDGE certification protocol) is incorrect, as this refers to the protocol document itself, not a submission component: "The certification protocol is a reference, not part of the Auditor’s submission" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 1.1: Overview). Option D (design audit site visit results) is incorrect, as site visits are not required at the design stage: "Preliminary Certification is based on a desk audit, not a site visit, which occurs at the post-construction stage" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.3: Certification Decision). Thus, compliance documents (Option C) are required in the submission.

The EDGE standard is designed to be a practical, focused tool for green building certification, emphasizing specific resource efficiency metrics. The EDGE User Guide describes its characteristics: "EDGE is a simple, fast, and smart tool for green building certification. It provides an intuitive interface with a powerful engine that accounts for local climate and building use (simple), identifies measures with the best return on investment (fast), and displays capital costs and payback periods (smart)" (EDGE User Guide, Section 1.1: Introduction to EDGE). Options A, C, and D align with these descriptions. However, Option B (holistic approach that takes into account wider sustainability issues) is not a characteristic of EDGE, as the standard focuses narrowly on energy, water, and embodied energy in materials, not broader sustainability issues like biodiversity or social equity. This is clarified in the EDGE Certification Protocol: "EDGE is not a holistic sustainability standard; it specifically targets resource efficiency in energy, water, and materials, excluding wider sustainability metrics such as indoor air quality or ecological impact" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 1.2: Scope of EDGE Standard). Thus, Option B is not a characteristic of the EDGE standard.

In EDGE, the Coefficient of Performance (COP) is used to measure the efficiency of heating systems that produce heat using a refrigeration cycle, such as heat pumps. The EDGE Methodology Report specifies: "The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is used in EDGE to evaluate the efficiency of heat pumps, including ground source heat pumps, where it is defined as the ratio of thermal output to electrical input. This metric is not applied to direct heating systems like electric heaters or boilers" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.1: Energy Efficiency Metrics). Option C, ground source heat pump, fits this description as it operates using a refrigeration cycle to transfer heat, and its efficiency is measured by COP in EDGE. Option A (electric heater) has an efficiency typically measured as 100% (or COP of 1), but EDGE does not use COP for such systems, as noted: "Electric heaters are assumed to have a fixed efficiency in EDGE, not evaluated via COP" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option B (condensing boiler) uses thermal efficiency (%), not COP, as per: "Boilers in EDGE are assessed by their thermal efficiency, not COP" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.2: Heating Systems). Option D (sensible heat recovery from exhaust air) is a heat recovery method, not a heating system, and does not use COP: "Heat recovery systems are evaluated by their heat recovery effectiveness, not COP" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.3: Ventilation Measures). Thus, ground source heat pump (Option C) is the correct choice.

Lamp efficiency in EDGE is a key factor in reducing energy consumption for lighting, a critical green building design strategy. The EDGE User Guide defines lamp efficiency: "In EDGE, a moreefficient lamp is one that provides higher lumens per watt, meaning it produces more light output (lumens) for the same electrical input (watts). This metric, known as luminous efficacy, is used to evaluate lighting efficiency measures like EEM22 - Efficient Lighting for Internal Areas" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.4: Lighting Efficiency Measures). Option A, more lumens/watt, directly aligns with this definition, as it indicates greater efficiency in converting electricity to light. Option B (lower watts/m²) refers to lighting power density, which is a design metric, not a lamp characteristic: "Watts/m² is a measure of lighting power density for a space, not the efficiency of an individual lamp" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.4: Lighting Calculations). Option C (longer life) relates to durability, not efficiency: "Lamp life affects maintenance costs but is not a direct measure of energy efficiency in EDGE" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.4: Lighting Efficiency Measures). Option D (lower wattage) alone does not indicate efficiency, as a lamp with lower wattage but poor light output would be less efficient: "Lower wattage must be paired with adequate lumens to improve efficiency" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.4: Lighting Calculations). Thus, more lumens/watt (Option A) describes a more efficient lamp.

EDGE recognizes renewable energy sources for their contribution to reducing carbon emissions in hot water production. The EDGE User Guide defines renewable hot water technologies: "Solar hot water collectors are considered a renewable source in EDGE, as they directly use solar energy to heat water, reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based energy" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option B, solar hot water collectors, matches this description as it harnesses solar energy, a renewable resource. Option A (ground source heat pump) uses electricity to transfer heat from the ground, which is efficient but not renewable unless the electricity is from a renewable source: "Ground source heat pumps are efficient but rely on electrical input, not classified as a renewable source in EDGE" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.1: Energy Efficiency Metrics). Option C (high efficiency boiler) typically uses gas or electricity, not a renewable source: "Boilers, even high-efficiency ones, are not renewable as they burn fuel or use grid electricity" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option D (preheating water using waste heat from the generator) is a heat recovery method, not a renewable source: "Waste heat recovery improves efficiency but is not considered a renewable energy source in EDGE" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.3: Energy Measures). Thus, solar hot water collectors (Option B) is the renewable source technology.

Training for EDGE Experts and Auditors is a structured process managed by specific entities authorized by the IFC. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols specify: "EDGE Faculty are licensed by IFC to deliver training for candidates aspiring to become EDGE Experts and EDGE Auditors. These trainers are selected and trained by IFC to ensure consistency and quality in the delivery of EDGE training programs" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 3.2: Training Requirements). Option A, EDGE Faculty, directly matches this description. Option B (EDGE Auditors) is incorrect, as auditors perform audits, not training, per the protocols: "EDGE Auditors are responsible for verifying project compliance, not for training others" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.2: Roles). Option C (EDGE Certification Providers) is also incorrect, as their role is to issue certifications, not conduct training: "Certification Providers like GBCI issue EDGE certificates but do not train candidates" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 1.3: Certification Process). Option D (Accredited EDGE Experts) is wrong, as Experts advise on projects, not train others, as per the protocols: "EDGE Experts provide consultancy services to project teams" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.1: Roles).

The eligibility criteria for becoming an EDGE Expert are designed to ensure candidates have sufficient background to advise on green building projects. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols specify the requirements for candidates without a construction-related higher qualification: "Applicants without a higher education qualification in a construction-related field (e.g., architecture, engineering) must have a higher education qualification in any field plus at least three years of experience in the construction industry as a skilled professional or tradesperson to qualify for EDGE Expert training and certification" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 3.1: Eligibility Criteria). Option C, at least 3 years, directly matches this requirement. Option A (at least 1 year) and Option B (at least 2 years) are insufficient, as they fall below the minimum threshold: "Less than three years of experience does not meet the eligibility criteria for candidates without a construction-related degree, as this duration ensures adequate practical knowledge of building design and construction processes" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 3.1: Eligibility Criteria). Option D (at least 5 years) exceeds the minimum requirement, which is not necessary: "While additional experience is beneficial, the minimum requirement for EDGE Expert eligibility is three years for non-construction degree holders" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.4: Working with EDGE Experts). The EDGE Certification Protocol also notes: "The three-year experience requirement for non-construction graduates ensures that EDGE Experts have sufficient industry exposure to provide meaningful consultancy, balancing accessibility with competence" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 1.3: Program Structure). Additionally, the EDGE User Guide clarifies: "Candidates with a construction-related degree are exempt from the experience requirement, but those without such a degree must demonstrate at least three years of relevant experience to qualify for the EDGE Expert exam" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.4: Working with EDGE Experts). Therefore, at least 3 years of experience (Option C) is required for applicantswithout a construction-related higher qualification.

EDGE Auditors must adhere to strict ethical guidelines to maintain independence and avoid conflicts of interest, particularly regarding payment structures that could influence their impartiality. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols address payment terms explicitly: "An EDGE Auditor must confirm a fixed fee for their services that is independent of the final assessment result. Payment structures that tie fees to the success of certification, such as contingent payments, are prohibited to ensure the Auditor’s objectivity and to prevent any perception of bias in the audit process" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). The client’s offer of 50% payment for assessment and 50% upon successful certification violates this principle, as it makes part of the fee contingent on the outcome. Option A, confirm a fixed fee independent of the final assessment result, aligns with this ethical requirement, ensuring the Auditor’s impartiality. Option B (lodge a complaint with local authorities) is incorrect, as this is an overreaction and outside the Auditor’s role: "Issues related to payment terms should be resolved directly with the Client, not escalated to local authorities, which are unrelated to EDGE certification" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.1: Audit Process). Option C (refer the developer to another Auditor) avoids the issue but does not address the ethical concern: "Referring the Client to another Auditor does not resolve the ethical violation of contingent fees, which applies to all Auditors" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). Option D (accept the terms) is unethical, as it compromises the Auditor’s independence: "Accepting payment terms tied to certification success, even if the project is likely to succeed, violates EDGE protocols and undermines the integrity of the certification process" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.1: Certification Process). The EDGE User Guide further emphasizes: "Auditors must maintain strict independence, ensuring their compensation is not influenced by the certification outcome, to uphold the credibility of EDGE certification" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.5: Working with EDGE Auditors). Thus, the Auditor should confirm a fixed fee (Option A).

Reducing hot water demand in hotels is a key green building strategy in EDGE, focusing on both supply-side and demand-side measures. The EDGE User Guide details measures that reduce hot water demand: "Hot water demand in hotels can be reduced through supply-side measures like solar water heating and heat pumps for hot water, which decrease the energy needed to heat water, and demand-side measures like low-flow shower heads, which reduce the volume of hot water used" (EDGE User Guide, Section 5.2: Water Efficiency Measures, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option B (solar water heating) reduces hot water demand by providing a renewable heat source, thus lowering energy use for heating. Option C (low-flow shower heads) directly reduces the volume of hot water used by limiting flow rates: "Low-flow shower heads can reduce hot water consumption by up to 30% in hotels" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 4.2: Water Savings Calculations). Option D (heat pumps for hot water) reduces energy demand for heating water by using a more efficient system: "Heat pumps for hot water have a high COP, reducing the energy required to meet hot water demand" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option A (solar photovoltaics) generates electricity, not hot water, and does not directly reduce hot water demand: "Solar PVs contribute to electricity generation, not hot water production" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.3: Energy Measures). Thus, Options B, C, and D all reduce hot water demand in a hotel.

The post-construction stage in EDGE certification requires evidence to confirm that the efficiency measures claimed in the design stage have been implemented as specified. For window glazing, which affects energy efficiency through its U-value (thermal transmittance) and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient), the EDGE Certification Protocol provides clear requirements: "At the post-construction stage, the Client must provide manufacturer’s data sheets for the window glazing measure, showing the make and model, U-value, and SHGC of the installed glass, to confirm that the glazing matches the specifications claimed in the self-assessment and meets the energy efficiency requirements" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.4: Post-Construction Requirements). Option C, manufacturer’s data sheets showing the make and model, U-value, and SHGC of the installed glass, directly matches this requirement, as it provides the specific technical data needed to verify compliance. Option A (design building elevations marking the window glass specifications) is relevant at the design stage, not post-construction: "Design elevations are required at the preliminary stage to show intended glazing specifications, not after construction" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option B (bill of quantities with specifications highlighted) is insufficient on its own, as it may not provide detailed technical data: "Bills of quantities may support purchase verification, but manufacturer’s data sheets are required for technical specifications like U-value and SHGC" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.4: Post-Construction Requirements). Option D (window schedule showing major glass types) is helpful but not sufficient, as it lacks the detailed technical data: "Window schedules may indicate glass types, but they do not replace the need for manufacturer’s data sheets with U-value and SHGC at post-construction" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.2: Documentation Requirements). The EDGE User Guide further clarifies: "For glazing measures, post-construction evidence must confirm the installed product’s performance through manufacturer’s data sheets, ensuring alignment with the design-stage claims" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.1: Insulation Measures). Thus, manufacturer’s data sheets (Option C) are required at the post-construction stage.

The EDGE software requires users to select a building type (typology) to model resource consumption accurately, and the choice depends on the scope of the certification. In this scenario, a tenant on the third floor (an office floor) of a medium-rise building seeks EDGE certification. The EDGE User Guide provides guidance on selecting building types for tenant spaces: "When a tenant within a larger building seeks EDGE certification, the building type should reflect the tenant’s space. For an office tenant on the third floor of a mixed-use building, the ‘Office’ typology should be selected, as the certification applies only to the tenant’s space, not the entire building, unless the whole building is being certified" (EDGE User Guide, Section 2.2: Project Setup). Option A, Office, aligns with this guidance, as the tenant’s space is an office. Option B (Retail) is incorrect, as the retail floors are on the first two levels, not the third: "Retail typology would apply if the tenant space were on the retail floors, not the office floors" (EDGE User Guide, Section 2.2: Project Setup). Option C (Mixed-use) is also incorrect, as this typology applies to the entire building, not a single tenant space: "Mixed-use typology is used when the entire building, including all uses (e.g., retail and offices), is being certified, not for individual tenant spaces" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 2.1: Calculation Approach). Option D (Core and Shell) is typically used for buildings certified up to the core and shell stage, not for tenant fit-outs: "Core and Shell typology applies to buildings certified without tenant fit-outs, focusing on the building envelope and systems, not individual tenant spaces like an office" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 1.2: Scope of EDGE Standard). The EDGE User Guide further clarifies: "For tenant-led certifications, the typology should match the tenant’s use—e.g., ‘Office’ for an office tenant—even if the building has multiple uses, ensuring the Base Case reflects the tenant’s specific consumption patterns” (EDGE User Guide, Section 2.2: Project Setup). Since the tenant on the third floor operates an office, the Office typology (Option A) is the correct choice for EDGE certification.

An occupancy permit indicates that a building meets local regulatory requirements for occupancy,but it does not address the specific green building measures required for EDGE certification. The EDGE Certification Protocol clearly outlines the role of such permits in the audit process: "A local occupancy permit provided by the Client confirms that the building complies with local building codes and is ready for use. However, it does not replace the need to audit all EDGE measures, as EDGE certification requires verification of specific energy, water, and materials efficiency measures that are not typically covered by local permits" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.4: Post-Construction Requirements). Option A, does not replace the need to audit all EDGE measures, directly aligns with this guidance, as the Auditor must still verify each claimed measure (e.g., insulation, low-flow fixtures, fly ash concrete) against EDGE standards. Option B (replaces the need to audit all EDGE measures) is incorrect, as the permit does not address EDGE-specific requirements: "Local permits do not verify EDGE measures like energy savings or embodied energy reductions, so a full audit is still required" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.4: Site Audit Procedures). Option C (does not replace the need for desktop studies) is partially correct but less comprehensive, as desktop studies are only one part of the audit process: "Desktop studies are part of the audit, but the occupancy permit does not exempt any aspect of the EDGE audit, including site visits and measure verification" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option D (replaces the need to audit EDGE Materials measures) is also incorrect, as materials measures (e.g., use of fly ash concrete) require specific evidence like manufacturer’s data sheets, not covered by an occupancy permit: "Materials measures require detailed documentation of embodied energy reductions, which local permits do not address" (EDGE User Guide, Section 7.2: Materials Efficiency Measures). The EDGE User Guide further reinforces: "The Auditor must verify all EDGE measures through appropriate documentation and site visits, regardless of local permits, to ensure compliance with the EDGE standard" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.3: Post-Construction Certification). Thus, the occupancy permit does not replace the need to audit all EDGE measures (Option A).

At the design stage (Preliminary Certification), EDGE requires specific documentation to verify that proposed measures, such as ceiling fans, will be implemented as claimed. The EDGE Certification Protocol specifies: "For measures like ceiling fans at the design stage, the Client must provide evidence such as manufacturer’s data sheets that detail the make, model, and specifications (e.g., power rating, air movement capacity) to confirm the fans meet the efficiency criteria for improving thermal comfort" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.2: Audit Requirements). Option C, manufacturer’s data sheet of the ceiling fans, aligns with this requirement, as it provides the necessary specifications for verification. Option A (photographs of installed ceiling fans) is relevant at the post-construction stage, not design: "Photographs are required at the post-construction stage to confirm installation, not at the design stage" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.4: Post-Construction Requirements). Option B (CFD assessment) is not required, as EDGE uses simplified calculations: "EDGE does not require CFD assessments for air movement; fan specifications suffice for design-stage verification" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.5: Thermal Comfort Measures). Option D (purchase receipts) is also a post-construction requirement: "Purchase receipts verify installation, not design intent" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.4: Post-Construction Requirements). Thus, the manufacturer’s data sheet (Option C) is the correct evidence at the design stage.

The EDGE framework strictly enforces separation of roles to maintain integrity and avoid conflicts of interest during the certification process. The EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols explicitly address this issue: "An individual cannot serve as both the EDGE Expert and EDGE Auditor on the same project. This separation ensures independence in the audit process, as the Expert’s role as a consultant advising the project team could bias the Auditor’s objective assessment of the project’s compliance with EDGE standards" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). Option A, no, an EDGE Expert cannot be the EDGE Auditor on the same project, directly reflects this rule. Option B (no, even if the Certifier agrees to special terms) adds an unnecessary condition, as the protocols do not allow exceptions: "No exceptions are permitted for an individualto serve in both roles on the same project, regardless of agreements or special terms" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 2.3: Conflict of Interest). Option C (yes, in all cases) is incorrect, as it contradicts the conflict-of-interest rules: "Allowing dual roles in all cases would undermine the impartiality required for certification" (EDGE Certification Protocol, Section 3.1: Certification Process). Option D (yes, if no other Auditors are available) is also incorrect, as availability does not override the conflict-of-interest prohibition: "Even if no other Auditors are available, the roles must remain separate; the Client must find a different Auditor or delay the audit" (EDGE Expert and Auditor Protocols, Section 4.1: Audit Process). The EDGE User Guide reinforces this principle: "The separation of Expert and Auditor roles ensures a fair and unbiased certification process, protecting the credibility of EDGE certification" (EDGE User Guide, Section 6.4: Working with EDGE Experts). Thus, it is not possible to be both (Option A).

Efficiency in fans and pumps is a critical aspect of green building design in EDGE, particularly for reducing energy consumption in HVAC systems. The EDGE User Guide provides detailed guidance on efficiency measures for mechanical systems: "Variable speed drives (VSDs) deliver the highest efficiency in fans and pumps by adjusting the motor speed to match the actual demand, significantly reducing energy consumption compared to fixed-speed systems. VSDs can achieve energy savings of up to 30-50% in HVAC applications by avoiding the constant operation at full speed typical of single or constant speed drives" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). Option D, variable speed drive, aligns with this description as the most efficient option. Option A (two speed drive) offers some efficiency by allowing two operating speeds, but it is less flexible than VSDs: "Two speed drives provide limited efficiency gains, as they cannot continuously adjust to varying loads, unlike variable speed drives" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.1: Energy Efficiency Metrics). Option B (single speed drive) and Option C (constant speed drive) are essentially the same in this context, operating at a fixed speed regardless of demand, leading to energy waste: "Single speed or constant speed drives run at a fixed rate, resulting in higher energy consumption compared to variable speed drives, which modulate speed based on need" (EDGE User Guide, Section 4.2: Energy Efficiency Measures). The EDGE Methodology Report further elaborates: "Variable speed drives are the most efficient option for fans and pumps in EDGE, as they minimize energy use by matching output to demand, unlike two speed or constant speed drives, which operate inefficiently under partial loads" (EDGE Methodology Report Version 2.0, Section 5.1: Energy Efficiency Metrics). This makes variable speed drives (Option D) the clear choice for delivering the highest efficiency in fans and pumps.