How can FM professionals ensure energy efficiency is sustainable long-term?

1. Measure and record emissions. 2. Reduce energy consumption through effective maintenance, technology & change (keep up-to to date with CPD) 3. Embrace sustainability causes, such as zero water, zero waste and the circular economy. 4. Make preference to using contractors or suppliers with environmental accreditations or goals. 5. Engage with people on the same journey as you 6. Make the first step, its a journey

Facility Managers (FMs) must start with comprehensive energy audits to map out current inefficiencies. Key is transitioning from reactive to proactive measures—regularly update energy benchmarks against industry standards. Utilize smart technology for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, reducing unforeseen breakdowns and energy waste. Engage occupants in energy-saving practices; their behavior plays a crucial role. Sustainability is not a one-off project but a continuous journey, integrating new technologies and practices as they emerge.

Energy audit is a great way to check whether or not there is room for energy savings, consult with an energy expert, check the basics yourself, manage your systems properly and ensure proper maintenance.

Indeed, the first step is conduct a comprehensive energy audit of the facility. This involves assessing current energy usage, identifying areas of energy wastage, and understanding the potential for implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices.

In my experience FM professionals can future-proof property assets for energy efficiency by implementing sustainable practices. This includes investing in energy-efficient technologies, conducting regular energy audits, and staying updated on innovative solutions. Developing a comprehensive energy management plan, incorporating renewable energy sources, and promoting a culture of energy conservation among occupants are vital. Additionally, staying informed about evolving energy regulations and industry trends helps FM professionals proactively adapt to changing energy efficiency standards.

Once the energy audit has been completed, facilities management professionals should Set Long-Term Energy Goals that are realistic, achievable, and aligned with broader sustainability objectives and funds available. It's indeed always wise to start with low-hanging fruits

After the audits and proper findings are done, for example office AC and lightings has to be put on timers or motion sensors, AHU be put on timers. Kitchen sinks leakages and uses of taps needs to be monitored by trainings and the need of energy savings vs costs cutting

To ensure long-term energy efficiency, FM professionals must balance initial investments with long-term savings. Start with low-hanging fruits like LED lighting and smart thermostats for quick wins. Then, assess building data for bigger projects like HVAC upgrades. Consider renewable energy integration, which, despite higher upfront costs, reduces future energy bills and carbon footprint. Regular maintenance and staff training on energy conservation are crucial. Lastly, stay updated on new technologies and rebates to continuously improve energy efficiency.

Implementing simple energy saving measures can be done by using the correct settings on the HVAC, for example, when its 35 degrees centigrade, and someone sets the AC to 16 degree's, you are in essence asking the machine to work so much harder to get a goal that can never be achieved, ergo, saving power, rather use a setting in the 20 to 22 degree band which will save power and still give the results you need. Use lights and lighting systems that have adaptive lighting. If the office is unoccupied, then it switches the light off (Occupancy sensors). All these are long term energy savers.

Energy Efficiency needs to be planned for long term. Certain ways to achieve this is 1. Having 5 star rated equipments including ACs 2. Going for VFDs for AHUs 3. LED lighting across office 4. Having time based or occupancy based controllers for switching off of equipment not in use. Enterprise policy may also be formulated for this for uniformity or geography wise policy can also be looked at. 5. Check for power factor related penalty if any and correction measure 6. Purchase Solar energy from available partners to reduce energy cost 7. For independent building, solar panel can be installed in terrace for generating power and use. Suitable meter can also be installed with necessary permission for supply of excess energy to grid.

1. **Energy Audits**: Conduct regular energy audits to identify energy usage patterns, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement. By analyzing energy consumption data and building performance metrics, you can pinpoint areas where energy-saving measures can be implemented effectivel 2. **Energy Management Systems (EMS)**: Implement an energy management system to monitor, control, and optimize energy usage in the facility. EMS can help you track energy consumption in real-time, set energy-saving goals, and identify opportunities for improvement. 3. **Energy-Efficient Equipment**: Invest in energy-efficient equipment, appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems that meet high energy efficiency standards.

FM professionals can boost long-term energy efficiency by actively involving all stakeholders. This means clear communication about the benefits and expectations of energy-saving measures. Offering training and incentives encourages participation. Importantly, soliciting feedback can lead to innovative solutions and foster a shared commitment. This collaborative environment not only promotes energy awareness but also ensures continuous improvement and adaptation to new challenges. A united approach can transform energy saving from a task to a shared value.

I have found that while all offices and apartments have HVAC or AC systems, and many claim to know how to use them, when in fact they don't really, but as an FM you are perfectly placed to be able to inform your occupants on the benefits of proper use of these systems, and in many cases its welcomed especially when they get their power bill at the end of the month.

FM professionals should then focus on changing behavior and creating a culture of energy efficiency within the facility. This can be achieved through education and awareness campaigns, employee engagement programs, and the implementation of energy-saving policies and procedures

Use the data you collect on the savings you have or can capture to secure stakeholder buy-in. Money talks and this is the most sure fire way to guarantee long term stakeholder support.

Totally aligned: FM Professionals should implement systems for tracking energy usage, analyzing data, and identifying opportunities for further improvements. Monthly performance evaluations and communication can help ensure that energy efficiency initiatives remain on track and continue to deliver long-term benefits.

For FM professionals, continuous monitoring and evaluation of energy efficiency measures are vital. Utilizing energy management systems allows real-time tracking and immediate adjustments. Regular audits can unveil hidden inefficiencies and provide data-driven insights. Moreover, integrating IoT sensors can automate data collection, providing a more granular view of energy usage and enabling proactive maintenance. This approach not only ensures sustainability but also optimizes operational costs and enhances the lifespan of infrastructure.

Another area where energy can be saved is ensuring that any pumps or elevators in your facility are properly maintained and checked, sometimes there are OEM settings that can allow for proper power savings.

Keep on tracking the usage and always expect the unexpected. By using the record, you're able to expect the necessary changes that should be made in future.

For lasting energy efficiency, FM professionals should adopt a continuous improvement mindset. Regularly update strategies and targets to match evolving facility needs and stakeholder expectations. Engaging with stakeholders for feedback ensures the plan remains relevant and effective. Implementing a dynamic, responsive approach to energy management fosters a culture of sustainability and innovation, leading to reduced operational costs and a greener footprint. Embrace change, learn from data, and always aim for better energy solutions.

Plan and budget from day one to reinvest some of the savings captured into future upgrades and modernizations to stay relevant as technologies continue to improve.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your peers and even competitors. Don’t be ashamed of sharing your failures as well as your successes to promote a dialogue. You will learn even more about what is and isn’t working for your region, as well as who has found the most effective techniques.

To ensure that the energy efficiency is sustainable to a long-term is to learn and share best practices from the experience and the knowledge gained from the energy efficiency process.By learning and sharing best practices, FM professionals can enhance their skills and competencies, and contribute to the advancement and recognition of the FM profession. The process should be continuous.

In addition to establishing a solid foundational plan and keeping abreast of technological advancements, fostering collaboration within the FM community can provide valuable insights and resources for achieving long-term energy efficiency goals. By sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches, FM professionals can collectively accelerate progress towards sustainable energy management. This collaborative approach ensures that the entire industry benefits from shared knowledge and experiences, leading to more impactful and enduring sustainability efforts.

If you decide you want to prove to the investors that they are buying into a sustainable development, then EDGE certification is a great way to go, even LEED, there are many such certifications for sustainability and all are well known and proven.