Demand for eco-friendly developments has never been higher. Aside from ticking the environmental box on a project, there’s lots to gain from choosing green energy solutions over their traditional alternatives – with the potential for huge savings in the long run.
To set you on track, we’ve highlighted some manageable, forward-thinking technologies to keep your space green while saving money.
1. Solar power
Solar panels are growing in popularity for commercial projects due to their year-round, all-weather functionality and long-lasting durability. As well as providing a reliable and effective renewable energy source, they also offer long-term financial savings by minimising your reliance on the grid.
But before you put all your energy into this solution, there’s things to consider. How many panels can your roof accommodate? And is your chosen space flat, or facing in the right direction to maximise solar exposure? These factors will help you determine whether solar power is the right choice for your development.
2. Energy-efficient lighting
Looking for an easier win than solar panel installation? Look inside the building. Lighting is a huge drain of resources, so it should be one of the first places you look to cut costs while maximising green potential.
Aside from the obvious decision to opt for LED lighting, simple but effective eco-friendly solutions include control system installations. Take sensors and dimming technology for example – these systems can adapt output according to the activity in the room, and even the level of natural light…
3. Eco-friendly heating
Heating is another area when you can really drive energy-saving measures within the building. The logistics are a bit more complicated, but mainly because there’s a lot more choice when it comes to technology.
Air conditioning units and electrically fired boilers are just two efficient alternatives to their gas-powered counterparts. Meanwhile, air source heat pumps are gaining traction, as renewable tech that absorbs heat from outdoors to keep your indoor space warm for less.
Of course, you need to make sure you choose a heating solution that fits your building’s usage and characteristics to maximise the potential savings in costs and emissions.
4. EV charging points
Want to take your green credentials to the next level? On-site EV charging points are the way to go, and could save you a headache in the not-so-distant future by getting ahead of the inevitable demand from customers and staff as diesel and petrol cars are phased out.
Incorporating this into your plans now will save you the trouble of reworking your space later. But it’s more than just future-proofing. As well as convenient on-site charging for the EV drivers among your staff and customers, there’s also the potential for new business. But before you go charging ahead, remember to assess the price per unit and installation fees.
Don’t forget to determine feasibility!
Hopefully this highlights a few of the considerations that should be made before you take the leap into a greener, more efficient development. Whatever you choose, it’s important to bear in mind the payback period before you commit – typically over 2-3 years.
Undertaking a feasibility assessment as early as possible in the process will help you strike the balance between the initial outlay and the long-term return on investment. If you need help weighing up your options, don’t hesitate to get in touch.