Retrofitting Existing Infrastructure for Energy Efficiency

The world is facing an unprecedented energy crisis amid climate change, with existing infrastructure significantly contributing to the problem. The built environment consumes ample power, from commercial hubs in bustling cities to suburban neighborhoods lined with homes. The construction industry has begun implementing sustainability in new buildings by default. However, existing infrastructure should not be left out. Upgrading these spaces for energy efficiency enables already-standing structures to decarbonize, lower costs, and create more environmentally friendly and resilient communities.

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Although cities are socially and economically essential, the built environment tremendously impacts climate change. 

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), commercial buildings in the US used 6.8 quadrillion British thermal units of energy in 2018, with fossil fuels accounting for 72% of end-use energy consumption. Overall, space heating was responsible for 32% of commercial energy needs, followed by ventilation and lighting at 10%. 

These activities emit carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and nitrous oxide from electricity use and heating, which worsen global warming. Cities often absorb the heat expelled from structures, creating an urban heat island that further hinders air quality and affects public health. 

The focus has shifted toward new green construction to combat the built world’s energy problems. However, there is also an opportunity to retrofit existing infrastructure for efficiency. 

6 Energy-Saving Measures for Retrofitting Buildings

When discussing energy-efficiency upgrades, much attention is given to the residential sector. However, there are numerous opportunities for commercial buildings to undergo retrofitting. Here are six ways to improve existing structures.

1. Conduct an Energy Audit

Commercial property managers should consider a comprehensive energy audit to assess their building’s consumption. A certified auditor will recommend improvements based on their assessment of electricity use and business operations. 

These suggestions range from low-cost to more expensive upgrades, covering areas like lighting, heating and cooling, insulation, air leaks and water use. An expert energy consultant’s recommendations will allow businesses to achieve sustainability goals and significantly reduce costs. 

2. Swap Out Light Bulbs

Switching out a building’s incandescent lighting to light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs is one of the more inexpensive changes businesses can make for energy efficiency. LEDs use 75% less energy than conventional light bulbs and last 25 times longer, preventing the need for frequent replacements. They also give off less heat, ensuring greater indoor comfort.

3. Upgrade HVAC Systems

Heating and cooling systems account for significant electricity use in existing infrastructure. However, Energy Star-certified heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units are about 6% more efficient than conventional models. 

Additionally, 25% of rooftop HVAC units are too large, causing wear and higher energy expenses. Businesses that appropriately size a unit to an existing building can prolong the equipment’s life span, reduce utility costs and decrease pollution.

4. Improve Thermal Performance

Property owners should focus on thermal performance when retrofitting existing infrastructure, such as adequately sealing windows and doors and reinsulating. These measures will prevent excess heat flow in the summer and heat loss in the winter, improving indoor air temperatures. 

Replacing older windows with energy-efficient versions is another way to optimize energy consumption. New windows have special coatings to better reflect sunlight with insulated glass to prevent heat transfer. 

5. Install Water-Saving Features

Commercial property managers should upgrade bathrooms to conserve water as part of their retrofitting initiatives. For instance, new WaterSense-certified toilets use only 1.28 gallons per flush, 20% less than the federal requirement of 1.6. Another way to conserve water is to install low-flow or sensor faucets.

Businesses could also improve irrigation efficiency by using rain sensors or rainwater harvesting for landscaping. Smart water metering systems can further provide insight into a property’s use so changes can be made effectively. 

6. Employ Renewable Energy

Solar panels and other renewable sources enable commercial buildings to operate on clean energy. For instance, rooftop solar or facades generate electricity independent from the grid. Likewise, wind turbines located in a suitable area can provide adequate power. 

Property managers and businesses might hesitate to invest in these energy-efficient upgrades. However, if they reduce consumption by 25%, they may be eligible for federal tax deductions to offset the costs. 

Decarbonizing the Built World for a Healthier Planet

Decarbonizing existing infrastructure creates a healthier built environment for people and the planet. A retrofitted building consumes less energy and adds fewer greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, allowing people to benefit from clean energy and improved air quality at work.