Smart buildings and energy sustainability are becoming increasingly important topics in 2023. As buildings are responsible for a large part of global energy consumption, it is essential to reduce consumption and improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings. This is key to meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement and also to addressing the current global energy crisis. New legislation and policy direction are encouraging a shift away from fossil fuels towards energy independence and the use of smart technologies in buildings. Find out how to become energy efficient and save energy in the following article.
How smart technologies improve energy efficiency in buildings
Smart technologies bring new opportunities for improving the energy efficiency of buildings. Basic building automation and controls can lead to energy savings of up to 15%, but advanced smart systems can increase these savings by a further 15-30% by integrating different systems and controlling HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and lighting equipment. Collecting and examining data allows you to have visibility into building performance and make decisions to improve efficiency. These data statistics can be used for manual or automatic optimization of building operations and strategic decisions – for example, closing the building on Fridays. How can you achieve energy efficiency in your property?
1. Energy saving and thermal protection
Improved sealing and insulation are key to improving energy efficiency, not just in commercial properties. An unsealed and poorly insulated building can lead to unnecessary heat loss during the colder months and significantly increase energy costs. By improving the sealing and insulation of your walls, roof, windows and doors, you can reduce heat loss and improve the energy efficiency of your property, helping you to save money and help protect the environment. The best thermal insulation therefore minimises heat leakage from the building while reducing heating and cooling costs.
2. LED lighting
Replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs is an important step towards improving the energy efficiency of properties. Traditional incandescent bulbs are inefficient and waste large amounts of energy on heating. LED lighting, on the other hand, is much more efficient and uses up to 90% less energy. By replacing old light bulbs with LED bulbs, you can reduce your property’s energy consumption and improve its energy rating.
Tip → Read our article Tips on how to reduce your building heating costs.
3. Smart thermostats
Installing smart thermostats is the next step in making your building more energy efficient. These thermostats read local weather forecasts in real time and adjust to indoor conditions, reducing energy consumption. By connecting to motion sensors and building owners’ smartphones, smart thermostats can adjust the temperature based on room occupancy levels, and even shut down the system when the building is empty, which can help save money during off-hours.
4. Renewable energy sources
Solar panels are a great way to improve energy efficiency and get independent and clean green energy. By installing solar panels, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your dependence on the energy supplier grid. In addition, solar energy is renewable and does not produce harmful emissions, which helps protect the environment. If you’re looking for a way to save money while investing in a sustainable future, installing solar panels may be the right choice.
Smart solutions for energy efficiency in buildings
Improving energy efficiency in buildings is not only a key factor in meeting climate goals, but also an important step towards saving energy costs and improving the environment. Smart solutions in this area can play a key role in achieving these goals through proactive measures such as automation and optimisation of building operations. There are many smart technologies available that can be easily integrated with existing systems and provide instant insight into a building’s energy performance.
A complete solution for your building’s energy efficiency
To improve your building’s energy efficiency and reduce energy costs, turn to our energy services. We offer comprehensive solutions including energy management, energy audits, electric mobility, photovoltaics, carbon footprint reduction and other services. With the help of our experts, you’ll gain insight into your building’s energy consumption and proposed savings. Contact us and together we will find the best solution for you.
