For new construction projects and other major initiatives, environmentally smart practices are essential for reducing both environmental impacts and costs. Well-planned environmentally sound practices create win-win-win scenarios for people, planet, and profit—the triple bottom line embraced by today’s business leaders who plan for long-term success.
Is your team planning a major project? Here are a few of the most meaningful sustainability practices to consider to improve both environmental and financial outcomes.
Energy Use Analysis
Energy use analysis involves estimating or calculating the amount of energy consumed by a building, system, or event. Energy use analysis can occur before, during, or after a new building is constructed.
Energy use analysis involves:
- Estimating current or projected energy consumption patterns
- Identifying energy inefficiencies and areas for improvement
- Recommending solutions to reduce energy use
Consumption analysis considers demand from areas such as lighting, HVAC, computer systems, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. Recommendations for upgrades involve cost-benefit analyses that compare potential savings against up-front investment costs.
For new construction, energy use analysis may involve a partnership between architects, MEP (mechanical, engineering, and plumbing) consultants, and other parties. Environmentally focused collaboration at the early stages of a project helps integrate the most effective solutions from the ground up. This forward-thinking approach ensures better environmental and financial outcomes from day one.
On-Site Solar Power
One of the best ways to improve a building’s environmental footprint is to establish an on-site energy source. Most often, that means installing an array of solar panels.
Solar is a dynamic and accessible renewable energy source. Installation options include:
- Roof mount
- Ground mount
- Parking lot canopy mount
Working with a team of experienced solar engineers is critical for getting the most out of a solar installation. Solar engineering involves determining the ideal number and placement of panels to achieve optimal performance and maximum benefits.
Solar can be added to a facility at any time. However, integrating solar into the initial building design is even better. When solar is part of the original building plans, a facility can incorporate ideal panel locations and mounting surfaces for the best possible solar power generation outcomes.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
In 2023, 1.4 million electric cars were registered in the United States, representing a 40% increase from 2022. In the coming years, the number of electric and plug-in hybrid cars on American roads will likely continue to sharply rise.
For major construction projects, adding electric vehicle charging (EVC) stations is a smart way to modernize a facility. In some areas, EVC stations may even be incentivized or mandated by state law or local planning regulations.
For new construction, incorporating EVC stations into the facility design is a great way to future-proof a project. Even if EVC isn’t a priority for your facility’s design right now, it may become more desirable in the future. Thus, building with EVC in mind is a smart investment for long-term sustainability and cost savings.
Combined Heat & Power
Combined heat and power (CHP) refers to the generation of both heat and power from a single system, rather than from two separate systems.
CHP systems usually involve one of these two arrangements:
- A boiler heating system that also produces electricity
- A generator with a heat recovery unit for reuse purposes such as hot water heating
CCHP (combined cooling, heat, and power) adds an additional benefit by incorporating the reuse of heat energy for running a cooling system.
CHP and CCHP systems are particularly valuable in facilities with major energy or HVAC requirements, such as data centers and agribusiness facilities.
Full-Service Sustainable Engineering Solutions with KMB
If your business or institution is planning a new construction, remodel, or other major event, sustainable practices should be at the forefront of your strategy. Emphasizing environmentally sound practices leads to greener, happier spaces, along with better financial outcomes and reduced environmental impacts.
To discuss sustainable strategies for your next project, contact KMB Design Group online or give us a call at 855-755-6234.