I am modeling a building that will use steam produced by a Coal Fired central plant. My baseline system is system 3, PSZ, fossil fuel fired for multiple zones.

Per LEED's District Thermal Energy V2, section 2.4.2.2, exception A, "For fuels used at the central plant that are not available at the building use the central plant rates for that fuel type in the Baseline and Proposed Case."

My understanding is that I will use an 80% efficient gas fired furnace for each PSZ, and then apply the heating value and cost of coal to the amount of BTU's used?

Is this a correct interpretation?

Ezra Gutschow, P.E., LEED AP