Transforming Construction Practices: Utilising Renewable Energy for Commercial Building MEP Design

Contributing to approximately 39 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions and 22 percent of operation emissions, according to the World Green Building Council, it is imperative that the construction industry takes a hard look at ongoing construction practices. As construction continues to bite off a 35 percent chunk of global energy consumption and with a steady increase globally in populations, businesses, educational, healthcare and other commercial buildings, it is now necessary to focus on green energy sources, sustainable practices and sustainability design.???

Experts in engineering services will be required worldwide for sustainable system design, energy modelling, potential EEMs (energy and environmental materials) analysis, thermal load calculations, duct design for HVAC systems and to seek renewable energy solutions.???

Sustainability involves three interconnected facets: environmental, economic and social impact.??

Environmental Impact?

The environmental impact considers materials used, their performance over time and the potential for using renewable energy in the design and build process. As adverse environmental effects are minimised, communities will require clean, affordable energy options.??

Integrating new forms of energy into building construction may result in even large buildings becoming ‘energy positive’ – pushing energy generated from the sun or the wind into the grid, rather than taking power from the grid. Also, buildings reliant on fossil fuels can explore the use of sensors to minimise lighting and air conditioning system energy consumption.??

Economic Impact?

Delving into the economic impact, this entails the efficient use of renewable energy, waste reduction, and water conservation. Here's how it all fits together:??

• Circular Economy Approach - A sustainable approach to construction involves reusing a building's water through harvesting and recycling and maximizing the reuse of building materials.??
• Natural Ventilation - Using natural ventilation can substantially minimise energy consumption and the reliance on mechanical systems, enhancing energy efficiency and indoor air quality.?
• International Standards -Battling climate change, buildings must adhere to international standards, including energy-efficient retrofitting and integrating solar panels while balancing initial expenditure with long-term environmental goals.?

MEP Strategies?

Focusing on integrating active air conditioning systems with natural ventilation and thermal mass to moderate thermal conditions, it’s crucial to minimise refrigeration systems.??

• Smart Design Choices - In addition to windows oriented to minimise solar heat gain, MEP systems can incorporate solar heating and hot water systems for a heat transfer coefficient 40 percent lower than required.?
• Modelling Services - Mechanical 3D modelling services and HVAC heat load calculations contribute significantly to reduced electricity consumption.??
• Water Treatment Systems - Installing suitable water treatment systems can reduce fresh water use by 75 percent. Public health experts can coordinate with architects and structural engineers to create sustainable plumbing system design.??

Photovoltaics?

Looking at photovoltaics, certain strategies come to mind.??

• Energy Payback Period - Depending on the panel type and installation site, photovoltaic systems can generate as much energy as was used in their production within five to 25 months.??
• Durability Matters - The quality of solar panel production and design affects longevity, which impacts sustainability. High-quality panels, such as grid-connected photovoltaic solar panels installed in Europe, continue to operate efficiently for decades. Some new models even come with a 30-year warranty. Incorporating robust glass on the back of panels can further extend their service life.?
• Minimal Maintenance - Solar panels are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements. In the rare event of issues, repairs are usually straightforward. Electrical cables and junction box diodes can be easily replaced if needed.?
• Recycling Opportunities - Valuable raw materials in solar panels can be recycled. Older panel models are often repaired and resold. Aluminum frames, cables and junction boxes are separated, while crystalline panels are shredded for recycling. Glass fragments are processed into thermal insulation material, and plastic foils are incinerated to generate energy.??

Knowledge & Expertise?

To turn these sustainable aspirations into reality, a team of specialists is essential. Accredited professionals with expertise in sustainable development, such as LEED AP, WELL AP, CEM, CEA, CMVP, and M.Sc., are crucial. Additionally, an expert design team proficient in various modelling software can make a difference. With a continuous increase in global commercial buildings, it's imperative to integrate sustainability design into MEP systems. Construction design professionals must embrace eco-friendly practices, circular economies and renewable energy sources for effective sustainability design.?

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XS CAD has valuable experience?providing?mechanical 3D modelling services , sustainability design and other BIM services for general contractors and consultants.? Our range of services for consultants and across the world include thermal load calculations, HVAC heat load calculations, duct design for HVAC systems, plumbing system design, mechanical engineering plumbing design and fire protection system design, creating models and drawings by?using?Revit BIM, AutoCAD?and?BIM Collaborate Pro for cloud collaboration.??