Converting a Commercial Building to become Energy Efficient and Sustainable

What should we do to make our buildings more energy efficient and sustainable? How can we increase the asset life of our critical core electrical equipment? How do we make our buildings become “Net Zero Buildings?”

 

These are some of the common questions posed to PT DOTS by Building Managers and Facilities Managers operating major buildings in Indonesia. Below are 7 key components that can help address some of these questions:

1. Develop and execute a Strategic Roadmap: Going from zero (or minimal) efficiency to becoming a Net-zero building in one step is unrealistic because of the high investment and resources that would be required, as well as the risks of not getting the desired results as planned. The recommended approach will be to go with a phased approach which is decided with the key stakeholders. Each phase will have a scope and budget target milestones to be achieved. If the desired results are not visible – the team can then revisit the plan and adjust accordingly.

 

2. Introduce Appropriate IoT: IoT (Internet of Things) devices, such as sensors, actuators, and smart meters, collect and relay valuable data on everything from temperature and humidity to occupancy and energy use. This data can be used to automate and optimize a variety of building functions, enhancing both comfort and efficiency.  These devices are essential to recognize in real-time the current health of the building.

 

3. Building Analytics: Making sense of large amounts of data generated by systems within the building, through IoT devices and existing equipment such as Building Management System (BMS) and Energy Management System (EMS) if operational, is how the efficiency will be realized.

The analytics play a vital role in optimizing the building’s operations leveraging thousands of data points collected from diverse systems within a building, including parameters like temperature, humidity, energy consumption, and occupancy. Utilizing tools such as machine learning and AI, it delves into this data to uncover inefficiencies, anticipate potential problems, and suggest actionable strategies to enhance performance. IoT and building analytics are an essential in tandem to get to the desired state of a Net Zero Building.

 

4. HVAC Optimization: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) accounts for a significant part of the energy spend (typically over 50%) of most commercial buildings in Indonesia.  Advanced HVAC systems do more than just control temperature. They also monitor and adjust humidity and air quality to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. These systems can adapt to changing conditions in real-time, reducing energy use and extending the lifespan of HVAC equipment.

 

5. Smart Lighting Optimization: Smart lighting systems use sensors and automated controls to adjust lighting levels based on a variety of factors, including occupancy and the level of natural light. Smart lighting optimization will not only generate energy savings but also improve the occupant experience and maintain safety.

 

6. Smart Water Management Systems: In a sustainable building, water conservation is as important as energy conservation. Smart water management systems can monitor water use, detect leaks in real-time, and even optimize irrigation systems, leading to significant water and cost savings while enhancing a building’s sustainability profile.

7. Integrated Access Control and Safety: Security is a top priority in any commercial building. Today, Advanced security systems use technologies like biometrics and smart cards to regulate access and protect against threats. These systems can also integrate with other building systems to provide a more comprehensive approach to building security.  Today’s commercial buildings have a separate access control system.  Integration into a system which incorporates IoT, analytics, HVAC and smart lighting is certainly the next step in making the building “Smart.”

 

While this is not an all-encompassing list of what is needed to become a fully energy efficient and sustainable building – it addresses some of the key components that should be considered when making the transition.  PT DOTS with its partners such as Blue IoT and Kloudspot are fully equipped and ready to help you with this transition.  Contact us for further information!

Tags: energy efficiency, net-zero solutions, smart buildings, sustainability, sustainable spaces