The need to go green and save energy is on the rise, owing to the depletion of finite resources and the rising economic and social costs of energy consumption. One of the ways businesses can contribute to a sustainable future is through smart building practices. Smart building practices refer to strategies that enhance the energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings, especially commercial buildings. They include technologies, techniques, and processes that help minimize energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and operating costs while improving indoor air quality, comfort, and productivity. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the smart building practices that businesses can adopt to help their workplaces turn green and save energy.
Lighting
Lighting accounts for a large percentage of energy consumption in commercial buildings. However, businesses can save a considerable amount of energy and money by optimizing lighting systems. Some of the ways to improve the energy efficiency of lighting systems include:
Use Natural Light
Natural light is free and energy-efficient. Businesses can maximize the use of natural light by designing buildings with large windows, skylights, and light shelves that reflect natural light deeper into workspaces. Additionally, businesses can use daylight sensors that automatically adjust the artificial lighting levels based on the available natural light.
Upgrade Lighting Systems
Businesses can replace old, inefficient lighting systems with energy-efficient ones such as LED lights and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). LED lights use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. CFLs use 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Additionally, businesses can install motion sensors that turn off lights when rooms are unoccupied.
Use Task Lighting
Task lighting refers to the use of focused lighting sources such as desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, and directional light fixtures. Task lighting helps employees reduce eye strain by providing adequate lighting of their work areas. It also helps reduce energy consumption in areas where full-area lighting is not necessary.
HVAC Systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems account for a significant percentage of energy consumption in commercial buildings, especially during extreme weather conditions. Businesses can improve the energy efficiency of HVAC systems by adopting the following practices:
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of HVAC systems helps identify and fix issues that affect their energy efficiency. This includes replacing air filters, cleaning coils, adjusting thermostats, and repairing leaks.
Upgrade HVAC Systems
Businesses can upgrade their HVAC systems to energy-efficient models. Energy-efficient HVAC systems use up to 50% less energy than older models. Additionally, businesses can install programmable thermostats that automatically adjust temperature settings based on occupancy times and occupancy patterns.
Make Use of Building Automation
Building automation refers to the use of computerized systems to control and monitor HVAC, lighting, and other building systems. Building automation systems can help reduce energy consumption by automatically adjusting system settings based on real-time data. Additionally, businesses can use smart sensors to detect temperature, humidity, and occupancy levels and adjust HVAC settings accordingly.
Water Consumption
Water consumption is another area where businesses can save energy and money. Some of the ways businesses can reduce water consumption include:
Install Low-flow Faucets and Toilets
Low-flow faucets and toilets can help reduce water consumption by up to 60%. Businesses can save thousands of gallons of water per year by installing low-flow fixtures.
Fix Leaks
Leaky faucets, toilets, and pipes can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Businesses can reduce water consumption by fixing leaks promptly.
Recycle Wastewater
Businesses can recycle wastewater by using it for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cooling systems, and flushing toilets. This can help reduce water consumption and save money on water bills.
Conclusion
Smart building practices can help businesses turn their workplaces green and save energy while improving the health, comfort, and productivity of their employees. By optimizing lighting systems, HVAC systems, and water consumption, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint and save money on energy bills. Additionally, businesses that adopt smart building practices can enhance their brand reputation and attract customers who value sustainability.