Most businesses today want to save money in any way possible, as well as be socially responsible. They achieve both goals by choosing a building that is energy efficient. While some efficiencies can be achieved with modifications, the most effective ones will come from the design and construction phases.
Interestingly, some areas of the country are more successful at this approach than others. So, how can you get the most energy-efficient performance out of your next commercial construction project?
Commercial Construction and Energy Efficiency
Each year, the American Council for Energy Efficiency produces a scorecard reflecting which U.S. states are doing the best in terms of energy efficiency. One of the items that it reviews is how well a state is adhering policies related to building energy efficiency.
According to the latest rankings, 5 is the median score, with Massachusetts and California ranking the highest and North Dakota and Wyoming coming in last, respectively. South Carolina ranks #40 on the list, and the agency encourages residential and commercial projects to focus more on complying with the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
How to Make Your Next Commercial Project Energy Efficient
Even though there is room for improvement in many states like South Carolina, the good news is that there are also many opportunities to make a commercial construction project energy efficient. If you are planning a project, either as a retrofit or a new build, there are several things you can incorporate into your project to save operating costs in the future and create a more sustainable structure.
1. Use a Whole Building Design Approach
Involve an experienced design team from start to finish. Make sure that everyone on your team understands that one of your primary goals is to create an energy-efficient commercial structure. This will help drive your decisions from day one.
2. Consider the Most Energy-Efficient Building Materials
You will have a lot of choices in building materials. You may need to create a balance between staying within your budget and hitting the mark that you want for energy efficiency.
You’ll be able to choose different roofing materials, windows, walls, and other items that can also provide year’s worth of operating cost savings. Make sure you consider this in your equation when choosing these materials.
3. Include Energy-Efficient Components in the Interior
Dealing with Mother Nature is only one part of creating an energy-efficient structure. How you design the interior systems and which materials you choose will also matter. Ask for assistance with things like lighting, plumbing, HVAC equipment, and even office layouts so that you can achieve your goals. Carolina Services Inc. (CSI) is Charleston, SC’s premier commercial construction, improvement, and space planning company. Contact us today to discuss your goals for your next commercial construction project, and we’ll give you our ideas for making it as energy efficient as possible.
