What should a team focus on first to significantly improve energy performance or achieve the lowest possible operation cost?

Implementing passive design strategies should be the primary focus as they utilize the climate to

maintain a comfortable temperature range in the building, reducing the reliance on mechanical

heating and cooling systems. This approach can significantly improve energy performance and

reduce operational costs by maximizing natural heating, cooling, and daylighting before considering

mechanical or electrical systems.

Reference: The LEED v4 Reference Guide for Interior Design and Construction emphasizes the

importance of passive design strategies within the integrative process for optimizing energy

performance1. Additionally, the LEED v4 energy update reflects a focus on increased energy

efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions reductions, which can be effectively addressed through

passive design23.