According to the most recent data from the U.S. EPA, commercial and residential buildings use 75% of the country's generated electricity. As a result, they accounted for 31% of the U.S. total greenhouse gas emissions (including electricity end-use indirect emissions) in 2022.
So, as a commercial property owner in Grand Rapids, MI, it's time you explored effective energy management strategies. They can help you operate more efficiently and cut building energy costs.
Our team at PMI West Michigan has created this guide to help you get started. Read on to discover tactics for energy efficiency and sustainable building management.
Understanding Energy Management and Effective Strategies
Energy management is the practice of incorporating sustainable building solutions to:
- Monitor
- Control
- Conserve energy
With energy management, you can transform your approach to property management and benefit the environment. Here are some of the strategies involved in this practice.
Conducting Energy Audits
Regular energy audits reveal how your property and its occupants use energy, helping you identify potential savings opportunities. They can also pinpoint areas for improvement, such as appliances and structural components that require repairs and maintenance.
Upgrading Lighting
Installing energy-efficient lighting, such as LEDs, can significantly reduce energy consumption. Integrating intelligent lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy can lead to further savings.
Optimizing HVAC Systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are significant energy consumers in commercial properties. Routine maintenance and upgrades to more efficient systems can result in substantial energy savings.
Using Energy Management Systems (EMS)
Intelligent technology can enhance monitoring and control of energy usage. An EMS can analyze data and suggest improvements, leading to more informed decision-making.
Encouraging Sustainability Practices
Engage tenants in sustainability practices such as recycling programs and energy conservation campaigns. The more informed your tenants are, the more proactive they can be with energy management.
Why Is Energy Management Important?
One primary reason energy efficiency is critical to commercial property owners is that it helps reduce costs. Efficient energy use translates to energy savings and lower utility bills.
Prospective renters will see those savings as a perk. So, the more sustainable and energy-efficient your building is, the more likely you will attract and retain reliable tenants.
Another reason is that reduced energy consumption lowers carbon footprint. Becoming a green building may also help you achieve regulatory compliance with energy-efficient building codes.
Furthermore, green buildings often have higher market values. Indeed, according to the U.S. Green Building Council, Inc., more green building owners have seen a 10% increase in property values.
Join the Movement Towards Management Excellence
If you're seeking full-service property management with a robust energy management approach, consider working with PMI West Michigan. As locals and professionals, we're familiar with the Grand Rapids area and have a wealth of experience in commercial property management. With our real estate expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and local knowledge, we can help you implement these strategies effectively.
If you're ready to contribute to a greener environment and position yourself as a leader in sustainability and efficiency, we encourage you to speak with us today. We'll happily discuss how our services can benefit your property and provide you with a complimentary consultation!
