Energy Efficiency to Maintain Energy Resources

COP 28, the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai, took place in the last months of 2023 and it was widely agreed that a landmark event had taken place, with international progress having been made towards sustainability goals.

As well as moving towards tripling the use of sustainable energy sources such as wind and solar power by 2030, a World Economic Forum post on 30th November, the opening day of the Conference, also highlighted the aim of doubling energy efficiency, in both transport and buildings.

The post stated that: “Energy efficiency represents one of the easiest ways to cut non-renewable energy usage. And by improving energy efficiency, less renewable energy capacity will also be needed in future, meaning fewer resources will be used up in building new renewable energy projects.

“Energy efficiency is so important that International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol describes it as the world’s ‘first fuel.’

“Heat pumps, more efficient appliances, and electric vehicles are crucial for reducing carbon emissions in the building and transportation sectors. These technological advancements, along with smart electrification strategies and decentralized energy deployment are key to boosting our energy efficiency.”

Multiple benefits of efficient HVAC systems

Schwank has been manufacturing and supplying HVAC systems to the non-domestic markets worldwide for over 90 years. We have always understood that energy efficiency in HVAC systems is a major priority for industrial and commercial buildings. This was initially mainly due to its significant impact on the operational costs of a business, as well as a general pride in contributing to engineering excellence. However, in recent decades the goals of environmental sustainability have also become increasingly important.

Industrial and commercial buildings, and the activities within them, are typically large consumers of energy, with HVAC systems often accounting for a substantial proportion of their energy usage. By installing energy-efficient HVAC solutions, businesses can significantly reduce their energy consumption and lower operational expenses. This can not only translate into direct cost savings but also can enhance the overall financial performance of the organisation by freeing up resources for other investments or activities.

By adopting energy-efficient HVAC technologies, businesses can minimise their carbon footprint, aligning with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements. Moreover, efficient HVAC systems will maintain consistent temperature and air quality. So investing in energy-efficient HVAC technologies not only yields tangible economic and environmental benefits but also fosters a healthier and potentially more productive workplace environment.

Maintaining efficiency using sustainable energy sources

In my LinkedIn post last month, I explained how Schwank had introduced the world’s first heater able to be powered by 100% hydrogen gas, but that “the geniumSchwank tube heater is also capable of running natural gas or LPG, so this future-facing solution can be installed today in anticipation of hydrogen gas becoming available through the distribution networks.”

I also added that: “Schwank is now offering a range of new products that are powered by electricity, including Electric Infrared Heaters and Electric Heat Pumps. It is our view that the HVAC sector needs to be able to provide its customers with a diversity of sustainable solutions to facilitate the transition away from fossil fuelled energy sources.”

However, we have also ensured that energy efficiency is built in to the engineering of all these new products. The fact that the energy sources driving them are targeted towards sustainable Net Zero objectives does not mean that the quest for maximising energy efficiency should be relaxed. The economic, environmental and energy security benefits remain unchanged.