Top Frequently Asked Questions About EDGE Certification in Vietnam

1. What is EDGE?

EDGE is a green building certification system focusing on improving resource efficiency in buildings. Developed as an initiative of the IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, this certification supports emerging markets in scaling up resource-efficient buildings quickly, easily, and cost-effectively.

EDGE enables developers and builders to swiftly identify the most cost-effective strategies to minimize energy, water, and embodied carbon in materials.

2. How is EDGE applied in Vietnam?

EDGE can be applied to both new construction and existing buildings.

Eligible building types include: residential, apartments, hotels, offices, shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and more.

In Vietnam, many projects have already achieved EDGE certification, with more than 106 projects by Q2/2023, equivalent to around 3.8 million m² of floor area.

3. EDGE Certification Levels

Below are the three certification levels representing the degree of commitment to resource savings and emissions reduction:

– EDGE Certified: the entry level where a project achieves at least 20% savings in energy, water, and materials.

– EDGE Advanced: for projects reaching at least 40% energy savings, representing a higher step in operational efficiency.

– EDGE Zero Carbon: the highest level, achieved when a project meets EDGE Advanced standards and demonstrates the complete elimination or offsetting of annual carbon emissions — aiming for long-term sustainable development.

4. Certification Process and Costs

Registration

– The project owner registers the building project on the EDGE App (online platform).

– Select the building type (residential, commercial, hospital, hotel, etc.) and enter project details.

Design Stage Assessment

– Use the EDGE App to simulate the projected building performance in energy, water, and embodied energy in materials.

– Identify solutions achieving at least 20% savings for each category compared to local baseline standards.

– Work with a certified EDGE Auditor to validate design data.

Preliminary Certificate (Design Stage)

– Submit documentation to an approved EDGE Certifier.

– Upon successful review, the project can obtain a Design Certificate, confirming compliance at the design stage.

Construction & Implementation

– During construction, the developer must implement the approved green solutions (materials, technologies, systems).

– Keep records and evidence (photos, invoices, technical specifications).

On-site Audit

– An independent EDGE Auditor will visit the project to verify that the design-stage solutions have been implemented.

– Collect and review evidence (site inspection, documentation).

Final Certificate (Post-Construction)

– After successful verification, the certifying body issues the official EDGE Certificate.

– This confirms the building meets required performance standards in reality, not just in design.

5. Benefits of EDGE Certification

– Reduce operating costs (electricity, water) through resource savings.

– Enhance project/developer reputation and branding as a green building — increasingly valued by markets and customers.

– Access to “green” financial incentives, preferential loans, and support from international organizations.

– Contribute to greenhouse gas reduction and environmental sustainability.

6. Challenges / Considerations for EDGE Certification in Vietnam

– Initial investment costs may be higher than conventional construction, especially for higher certification levels.

– Requires consistent commitment from design to construction — significant deviations during construction may result in certification denial.

– Local data input is critical (electricity, water, climate, materials) for accurate simulations.

– Limited awareness and understanding of green buildings/EDGE certification among developers, architects, and builders.

– Monitoring, supervision, and verification may be challenging due to distance, costs, or lack of local expertise.

Green Building Consultancy Services at ISD Engineering

ISD Engineering is a pioneer in Vietnam for LEED and EDGE certification. We are proud to be the first and only green building consultancy in Vietnam recognized as both:

• LEED Proven Provider by USGBC/GBCI — acknowledging our consistent excellence in delivering LEED projects.
• EDGE Premier Service Provider by IFC/World Bank Group — a designation reserved for organizations with outstanding expertise and performance in EDGE certification.

We provide end-to-end solutions:

• Strategic consulting tailored to each building type.
• Condition assessment & roadmap development with optimized costs.
• Full support with certification documentation, procedures, and ongoing implementation.

Contact Us

👉 Contact us today for consultation and join the pioneering businesses achieving green building certification in Vietnam.

🔗 Learn more about ISD Engineering’s expertise in green building certification.