With energy costs continuing to rise to all-time highs and with no end in sight, improving energy efficiency continues to be at the forefront of Australasian company’s business plans.
For those entrusted with tackling this challenge, finding new ways of improving the sustainability of a building now and into the future is of the highest priority.
A holistic energy efficiency study is a way of identifying where savings can be made, through thorough planning and review of the entire building, with considerations for long-term viability.
A holistic energy approach helps facilities managers to develop and implement an effective energy management strategy to improve efficiency, reduce costs and cut carbon emissions. Addressing all of the issues simultaneously helps contribute to the long-term sustainability of the business.
A holistic approach includes accompanying a building from its planning through to ongoing maintenance:
Identification – The first step of a holistic energy efficiency study is a comprehensive review of the entire building, current requirements and future goals. A holistic approach addresses the full-range of barriers and system-level issues essential to attaining increased energy efficiency. Engaging an energy consultant in this step is critical to ensure elements are not overlooked.
Evaluation – Once the needs have been identified and recommendations made, a detailed review of the feasibility and economic viability of the plan must be performed. One of the most common downfalls of any energy overhaul is actioning a plan without proper consideration for long-term sustainability.
It is one thing to identify and specify the latest and greatest energy saving methods and technologies. But is the cost of maintaining these methods feasible for the long term? And are they adaptable to the inevitable changing needs and requirements of the building and those within, as well as changing regulations? A 5 year, 10 year and even 20 plan helps to protect again these.
Execution and maintenance – How energy efficiency measures are then implemented is critical towards the success of an energy plan. A disconnect between the engineers and consultants, and the trades installing and maintaining the changes can nullify much of the work done in the identification and evaluation stages.
Comprehensive monitoring and reporting is essential to the ongoing success of a buildings sustainability, identifying where savings are being realised, and where further adjustments should be made.
Programmed Property Services provide holistic energy solutions to facilities managers, with tailored end-to-end energy solutions designed to deliver economic and environmental benefits, with savings of up to 60% in energy bills, as well as significant reduction in day-to-day operational and maintenance costs.
