
Embodied Carbon and Energy in Optimising Building Systems
As the built environment moves toward Net Zero targets, engineers face tough decisions balancing embodied carbon with operational energy use.
The mechanical and electrical engineering industry plays a vital role in designing and maintaining commercial buildings. As concerns about reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 continue to grow, it’s essential to implement energy-saving solutions in these structures. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 energy-saving solutions that can help commercial buildings reduce their carbon footprint and save on utility costs.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems account for a significant portion of a commercial building’s energy consumption. By installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, like variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems or geothermal heat pumps, you can significantly reduce energy usage and improve overall comfort.
Switching to LED lighting is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce energy consumption. LEDs are more efficient, last longer, and have lower maintenance costs than traditional lighting options. Additionally, they provide excellent illumination and come in various colour temperatures, making them suitable for various applications.
Smart Building Management Systems such as VEXO’s S-BMS can help optimise energy consumption by controlling HVAC based on occupancy, temperature, and other factors. By automating these processes, you can ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently and saves energy.
Solar panels are a great way to harness renewable energy and reduce reliance on traditional power sources. By installing solar panels on commercial buildings, you can generate clean energy and lower utility costs over time.
Proper insulation and air sealing can significantly reduce energy consumption by preventing heat transfer and drafts. Make sure to insulate walls, roofs, and floors, and seal any gaps or cracks in the building envelope.
High-performance windows, such as double or triple-pane options with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings, can minimize heat transfer and improve overall building insulation. This reduces energy consumption and maintains a comfortable indoor environment.
Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) adjusts the amount of outdoor air supplied to a building based on occupancy and air quality. This allows for more efficient use of energy, as the HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard when the building is less occupied.
Energy recovery systems, like energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat recovery systems, can help reduce energy consumption by recovering and reusing waste heat from HVAC systems. These systems can significantly lower heating and cooling costs.
Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofs. By using cool roof materials, you can reduce the amount of heat transferred to the building, resulting in lower cooling costs.
Submetering and energy monitoring systems help track energy usage and identify inefficiencies. By monitoring energy consumption, you can better understand how energy is being used and implement targeted energy-saving solutions.
These 10 energy-saving solutions can help commercial buildings in the mechanical and electrical engineering industry optimise their energy consumption and reduce their carbon footprint.
Recent case studies of VEXO’s S-BMS have shown heating energy reductions of 36% over one heating season. By implementing these measures, you can create a more sustainable and cost-effective building environment.
As the built environment moves toward Net Zero targets, engineers face tough decisions balancing embodied carbon with operational energy use.
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