Introduction
Energy efficiency is no longer only an operational task – it is a key driver for financial results, compliance and sustainability in commercial and business properties. Since the energy costs increase and the environmental regulations are being tightened across the EU, the optimization of energy consumption has become a priority for companies managing a big number of properties such as offices, shopping centers, logistics centers and data centers.
For the managers responsible for finances, operation, sustainability and management of the facilities, energy efficiency improvement means lower costs, better ESG indicators and an increased asset value. However, the challenge is to find solutions that ensure significant savings without substantial upfront investments being required. Energy performance contracts (EPC) provide a risk-free way to achieve these objectives while operation and maintenance optimization (O&M) ensures constant efficiency.
Why is energy efficiency important for big commercial and business buildings?
1. Cost savings and operational efficiency
- Energy costs are up to 40% of the total operating costs in the commercial buildings.
- By optimizing use of energy, building users may reduce their energy consumption by 20-30%, which has a significant impact on profitability.
- EPC offer a neutral approach in terms of costs, as savings from energy consumption reduction are used to finance the system upgrade, obviating the need of initial capital investment for the owner.
2. Value of the property and market competitiveness
- Energy-efficient buildings attract tenants with higher profile and maintain higher employment levels.
- Certifications such as LEED and BREEAM improve the asset value and make properties more competitive.
- The improved indoor air quality contributes to higher employee productivity, a lower sickness rate and increased tenant satisfaction.
3. ESG and sustainability
- Investors, creditors and corporate stakeholders assess the ESG performance, turning energy efficiency into a crucial component of the long-term business strategy.
- The energy efficient buildings contribute to carbon footprint reduction, complementing the corporate sustainability objectives.
- The access to green financing, subsidies and tax incentives is easier for companies demonstrating the commitment to energy efficiency.
4. Compliance with the regulations and risk mitigation
- The EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) of Bulgaria impose more stringent efficiency requirements.
- The big buildings should be subject to regular energy audits and improve their efficiency in order to avoid penalties and maintain compliance.
- The proactive energy efficiency improvement reduces the legal and financial risks relating to possible non-conformities.
How to achieve energy efficiency in commercial buildings
1. Execution of an energy performance contract (EPC)
EPC enables businesses to achieve guaranteed energy saving with zero initial investment costs because the improvements are financed with the savings they generate. A special energy service company (ESCO) conducts audits, analyzes, designs, implements and maintains the improvements while guaranteeing long-term efficiency and achieved measurable results.
Improvement in the energy performance contracts:
- High efficiency of the HVAC systems
- Smart building automation and building energy management systems (BEMS)
- LED lighting & smart control
- On-site renewable energy solutions
- As well as a range of other measures
2. Operation and maintenance optimization (O&M)
Apart from equipment improvements, the optimization of day-to-day energy management can provide significant savings.
Key operation and maintenance strategies:
- Energy monitoring, analyses and a real-time response
- Use of preventive maintenance to avoid energy loss
- Training of site-based teams for energy efficient activities
Conclusion: Unlock the full energy efficiency potential
Energy efficiency is not only a green initiative – it is a financial and operational strategy leading to cost savings, compliance and leadership in sustainability. For office buildings, commercial centers, medical institutions and data centers, the energy performance contracts (EPC) also provide a risk-free path to efficiency improvements while the maintenance and operation strategies ensure long-term savings.
Want to find out how the EPC or O&M solutions can help to optimize your building’s energy efficiency? Contact our team for further information.