As we see more and more tenants return to commercial properties – and they plan to continue to do so in this coming year – property teams are now faced with more pressure than ever to maintain their buildings at the highest level. And for many, this means incorporating sustainable and energy-efficient practices.
Recent research by Building Engines, a JLL company, found that commercial property teams have prioritized energy efficiency and expense reduction over the past three years.
The following are five straightforward and actionable measures that property teams can implement to cut down on energy consumption – a move that not only aligns with environmental responsibility but also fosters substantial cost savings.
5 ways to reduce energy usage
Here’s a dive into five pragmatic ways to curtail energy usage effectively, enhancing your building’s operational performance while keeping an eye on sustainability goals.
1. Upgrade to LED lighting
Replacing old, inefficient lighting with LED alternatives is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to reduce energy consumption. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Several commercial buildings have made the switch and have seen significant reductions in their energy bills.
2. Regularly maintain HVAC systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be major energy hogs if they are not maintained properly. Ensure regular servicing to keep these systems running at peak efficiency. This includes cleaning filters, checking for duct leaks, and ensuring that the system is correctly sized for the space it’s serving.
3. Install occupancy sensors
Areas such as conference rooms, restrooms, and individual offices may not need to be lit or temperature-controlled at all times. Occupancy sensors can help to reduce energy consumption by turning off or adjusting lighting and HVAC systems when these spaces are not in use.
4. Implement a smart tech systems
In the same vein, an intelligent energy management system can monitor and control energy consumption in real time, making adjustments to heating, cooling, lighting, and other systems to optimize for efficiency. This technology can often identify areas where energy is being wasted and suggest corrective actions.
Meanwhile, an intelligent HVAC management system such as Hank can integrate with your existing building management system (BMS) or building automation system (BAS) to autonomously optimize HVAC equipment across your buildings – lowering energy consumption (and costs) to deliver immediate ROI. This technology can cut your energy costs by 20% a year.
5. Encourage tenant participation
Sometimes, the easiest adjustments come from the end-users. Educate tenants about energy conservation methods and encourage practices such as switching off lights and computers when not in use, taking advantage of natural light, and using power strips to easily turn off multiple devices at once.
How to save big on energy costs
As property teams work to meet the standards of today’s eco-conscious tenants and adhere to stricter environmental regulations, the strategies mentioned above serve as a blueprint for making meaningful progress towards reducing energy consumption.
As we move forward, it’s crucial for property managers to continue exploring innovative solutions and adapt to evolving technologies that further streamline energy usage. The journey toward energy efficiency is continuous. With the right measures in place, property teams can achieve a harmonious balance between operational demands and responsible stewardship of our planet’s resources. Remember, every step toward energy conservation not only impacts the bottom line but also contributes to a larger collective effort in combating climate change.
Learn how one commercial property team saved over $70,000 a year in energy costs with the help of smart technology.
