With the alarming rise in global warming and other climate issues, the urgency to transition to green technologies has become increasingly prominent. With rapidly exhausting natural resources and ever-increasing energy costs, energy efficiency has become a way to reduce the environmental impact while also an increasingly clever business tactic to reduce long-term costs and exercise cost efficiency. The effect is better for the environment but also positions the company with such infrastructure to be sensitive towards the planet, thus establishing a trustworthy brand image.
What are the benefits of making a building more energy efficient?
1. Reduced environmental impact.
Energy-efficient buildings produce performance equivalent to their non-energy-efficient counterparts but use much fewer resources. These buildings make full use of the available resources, such as electricity. These buildings also use low-flow fixtures and other water-saving features, thus decreasing the amount of water usage in the building. Since energy-efficient buildings also use high-performance and low-maintenance materials, the number of resources required for maintenance and upkeep is considerably lower. The overall careful use of resources also results in waste reduction. All these things effectively reduce the impact on the environment.
2. Decreased Energy costs.
Since these buildings use fewer resources, the amount of capital spent is reduced considerably in the long term. Using enhanced insulation and effectively sealing the gaps and cracks on the building envelope, there can be a considerable reduction in heat loss in the winter and heat gains in the summer. Energy-efficient appliances can reduce the energy consumed and thus lower energy costs. Using Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can help maintain a comfortable temperature in a building with considerably lesser energy requirements. Solar panels are another way to downsize energy costs by creating an energy supply to supplement at least a portion of the functions.
3. Increased Property Value.
Increased energy efficiency can save money on energy bills, which is an attractive prospect for buyers since it would be effectively cost-saving in the long term. Energy-efficient building systems are designed around optimum comfort for either living or working environments through efficient heating and cooling systems. Due to better ventilation and low or no emitting materials, the air quality also increases. The quality of materials used in these buildings is more durable and requires less upkeep, reducing maintenance costs. These reasons make properties more attractive to potential buyers and increase their value.
4. Improved Brand image and marketability.
Sustainability has been trending lately, and consumers have become very aware of the companies they buy from and associate with. They are choosing companies that are more environmentally sensitive and want to support them. Energy-efficient buildings reduce the environmental impact, which can help in marketing to enhance the company’s brand image. Thus the structure doesn’t only help with cost savings but also becomes symbolic of the brand values.
5. Better health and comfort for users.
Energy-efficient buildings can provide a more comfortable living/working environment due to being able to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, which can help reduce the risk of heat stroke and other health issues related to extreme temperatures. They also have better filtration and air-circulation systems that help decrease indoor pollutants such as dust, mold and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It can help improve respiratory health and reduce the risk of asthma and allergies. Since energy-efficient buildings are well-sealed, they help block off noise pollution, which can help enhance sleep quality and reduce stress. Since maximising access to natural light is used in designing energy-efficient buildings, it helps maintain the circadian rhythm. All of these collectively help in better health and comfort for users.
6. Eligibility for government incentives & reduced risk in regulatory charges.
Most of the world’s governments have been actively promoting and incentivising green energy since it is consequential for saving the planet. Designing energy-efficient buildings help achieve many perks the governments give, such as financial incentives, grants, tax credits or rebates. These incentives also help offset the upfront costs of implementing energy-efficient measures, making it even more financially attractive. Various standards encourage more energy-efficient buildings and thus causing overall energy consumption reductions. By achieving these targets, businesses are eligible for additional incentives and recognition, such as LEED certificates or other sustainability certifications.
7. Improved tenant retention.
Since these buildings are highly focused on user comfort and indoor environment and are also effective in energy saving, they are popular amongst tenants. It can be especially appealing for Businesses since it translates into significant cost savings. It is also helpful because many Businesses and individuals are increasingly looking for more sustainable and energy-efficient options.
8. Increased resilience.
Energy-efficient buildings are not entirely reliant on electricity grids and are known for using lesser resources, so they are more resilient to power outages or water supply cuts. Features such as renewable energy generators such as solar panels or wind turbines also make them self-reliant for energy. These are especially important in remote places and for essential services. Since energy-efficient buildings are better insulated than traditional buildings, they are also less at risk against extreme temperature events. All these factors make energy-efficient buildings more resilient because of their low resource requirement, durability and self-reliance.
You can implement various strategies to achieve all of these benefits. Hiring experts is the most convenient way to find the optimum approach to utilise the full potential of your budget. We at Graniti Vicentia are committed to sustainability as a part of our philosophy and take responsibility for reducing the strain on the environment. Visit our portfolio to check out our work. Contact us to know more.