The easy routes to stemming energy waste

The expected building energy efficiency certification will mean the rewards of stemming energy waste from factories will be reflected in both operational costs and future commercial property values

"The cost savings made from 'green buildings', and their environmental benefits are well understood, but with fresh requirements under the EU energy performance of buildings directive, commercial properties that are inefficient energy performers are likely to command a lower market value," says Paul O'Brien, managing director of environmental power specialist Ener-g Efficiency.

The importance of energy management in the buildings sector is underscored by figures showing that commercial property accounts for 40 per cent of the EU energy requirements and represents the greatest single opportunity for boosting energy efficiency.

Research shows that more than one-fifth of the present energy consumption could be saved by 2010 by applying more ambitious standards to new and refurbished buildings.

O'Brien comments: "Under the directive, energy efficiency certification is expected to become compulsory for all public and private sector buildings by January 2009, with certificates identifying strong and weak performers.

Market observers believe certification will affect property values, with better energy performers attracting a market premium, so there is a powerful business case to improve energy efficiency and to start preparing now.

The good news is that there is plenty businesses can do to become carbon friendly and cut costs.

In our experience they can reduce energy usage by around 30 per cent very quickly and easily.

Many businesses perceive energy as an onerous and inevitable overhead, rather than a resource that can deliver concrete benefits, if properly managed.

Now more than ever, innovative technology from specialist companies such as Ener-g is readily available to businesses of all sizes," says O'Brien.

Among the main solutions provided by Ener-g are:.

* Online automatic meter monitoring that can be extended to all utilities, including water.

Simply by implementing automatic meter reading, a saving of two to three per cent can be achieved.

Monitoring and targeting involves a dedicated energy manager handling a site energy use and making recommendations for action.

The potential for cost reductions varies, but typically savings are in the region of five to 40 per cent.

* Building energy management systems (BEMS) means savings can be achieved by controlling and monitoring building services, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) plant, lighting and compressors.

A BEMS can deliver typical savings of 30 per cent.

* Energy efficient lighting provides high-efficiency replacement lighting as well as technology such as enhanced lighting control and voltage regulation devices.

Lighting savings in the area of 10 to 30 per cent are often achieved.

* Ener-g is so confident in their service provision that they come with an energy savings guarantee, which gives surety of savings to the customer.

O'Brien adds: "Energy saving measures for commercial and industrial buildings rack up substantial, swift and easily implemented cost benefits, making a business more productive and profitable, while adding to its assets by maximising the value of its property".

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