New technology enables retrofits to be done more economically and have a bigger impact, according to Facility Executive.
The story, written by JLL’s Energy and Sustainability team Global Chairman Dan Probst, says that cloud computing and real-time data and analytics, sub-metering, wireless sensors and other emerging techniques have made retrofits a much more viable option.
The story quotes McGraw Hill Construction SmartMarket Report numbers: Intelligent buildings use 20 percent to 40 percent less energy, have 8 percent to 9 percent lower operating expenses and valuations that are 7.5 percent higher than equivalent buildings with legacy systems. Smart elevators, smart lighting, demand control ventilation, advanced security systems and energy efficiency and production are fruitful areas to which attention should be paid, the story says.
In October, Honeywell and KRC Research released a study that suggested energy efficiency is a goal managers have for both new buildings and retrofits, but that it vies with other goals, such as improving safety.