10 Tips for Sustainability and Energy Management in Commercial Buildings

Is it really worth it in the long run to install all LED lighting throughout your building? In this article, we discuss the steps that businesses can take to reduce their energy bills while decreasing their carbon footprint. All in all improving their corporate sustainability through small but effective changes.

Advantages of Having an Energy-Efficient Building

Energy efficiency is a wise investment for anyone who owns or manages a commercial building.

Carbon footprint reduction is a priority for businesses and industries all over the world due to continuing concerns about energy reduction and global warming. For companies to reach their global energy targets, switching to more renewable energy s

ources will be imperative. By improving their infrastructure’s efficiency, building and property owners can minimise the impact on the environment while simultaneously generating more revenue.

In this article, we explore the benefits of putting energy management and sustainability first for commercial building owners.

Environment-friendly

We generate greenhouse gases through our actions, and the carbon footprint of any property is directly related to the energy it consumes. By monitoring and controlling this continuously, you can identify deficiencies in your energy system that can be improved to reduce your impact on the environment.

The environment benefits every time you install sustainable features. By upgrading your building, you can significantly improve the air quality or the cleanliness of your water.

Reduction of costs

Saving money is perhaps the top reason why commercial building owners opt for green fixtures. Company resources can be drained by utility costs, reducing a company’s savings or investment potential. With a sustainable system in place, you can reduce operating costs such as heating, air conditioning, lighting and water. Energy efficiency, climate control and water efficiency can all be enhanced with green fixtures.

Bring in customers

Sustainability is a priority for many consumers. Sustainable businesses are more likely to appeal to consumers who place a high value on sustainability. Publicising eco-friendly renovations is an effective way for companies to attract eco-conscious customers. It is extremely beneficial to keep customers informed and to make the information about your projects publicly available.

10 Tips for Sustainability and Energy Management

1.      Ensure that windows and doors are weatherised

It is common for buildings to lose heat in the winter through cracks and gaps. By weather proofing doors and windows in commercial buildings, you can reduce the amount of energy lost due to HVAC systems. To create a barrier, frames can be weather-stripped. Through weatherstripping, energy costs can be reduced by minimising air conditioning run times.

A revolving door can also improve energy efficiency in a building. This system permits individuals to enter while maintaining a closed door at all times. Conventional structures are approximately eight times less energy-efficient than revolving doors.

2.      Develop a culture of energy conservation in your company

Make energy conservation a part of your sustainability model by involving everyone. You can encourage a business culture with a focus on green credentials, for instance, by promoting the unplugging of appliances and lights and the conservation of water. But keep in mind that efforts to conserve energy should not be forced. Rather, it should become part of every employee’s daily routine. Consequently, your company not only saves money but also protects the environment.

A company’s environmental policy must be understood by everyone in order to be successful. Set up reward systems for departments that reduce the carbon footprint the most to encourage everyone to join in.

The success of being a sustainable corporate is based on your ability to work together. In the long run, employees will be more likely to co-operate if they realise how much impact they may have on protecting the environment.

3.      Track and measure your carbon footprint

Calculate your office’s carbon footprint. Business owners can use quick calculators to estimate how much CO2 their office produces each year. By benchmarking your energy efficiency, you can determine where to make the most improvement.

4.      Invest in smart lighting

When compared to existing bulbs, energy-efficient bulbs can save up to 80% of energy. In addition, they last longer. With LED lighting, lighting costs can be reduced by up to 90%, which is highly beneficial for businesses. Additionally, sensors can be used in rarely used spaces, such as meeting rooms and restrooms, to save energy.

5.      Purchase certified equipment

Look for energy-efficient, high-performance systems and equipment. An Energy Star-certified product, for instance, will perform more efficiently and use less energy than a typical non-certified model. As these products evolve rapidly, keeping up with new developments is essential.

6.      Make sure your HVAC filters are changed regularly

A dirty filter restricts airflow, causes HVAC systems to work harder, increases operating costs, adversely affects indoor air quality and requires more maintenance. You can keep your HVAC system in good shape by getting regular maintenance checks from an HVAC technician.

Every month, it is recommended to change the HVAC filters. Businesses can save money on wasted energy costs by changing dirty filters, which reduces energy waste by up to 15%.

7.      Keep equipment in good working order

Maintaining equipment properly leads to lower energy costs and longer equipment life. Taking the time to maintain machinery such as chillers and boilers will pay dividends in the long run.

8.      Invest in new equipment

The older the device, the more power it consumes. The company’s monthly energy bill is largely impacted by these old devices. Old HVAC systems should be replaced, energy-efficient products should be used and energy-efficient lighting should be installed.

9.      Manage water smartly

Evaluate your facilities for water use and waste. Fix leaks and maintain equipment to reduce water consumption. Don’t forget to inspect toilets, sprinklers and ice machines.

10.  Install programmable thermostats

A smart thermostat adapts indoor temperatures to outside temperatures. It also detects local weather conditions. When indoor temperatures are controlled based on natural weather patterns, HVAC systems consume less energy.

Make the Switch to a More Energy-Efficient Building

These 10 energy-saving tips can help businesses start their journey to saving energy.

At Edmont M&E, we provide a wide range of commercial services while keeping sustainability and energy management in mind to help you transform your building into one that’s more energy-efficient. Contact us today to know more.