Businesses that prioritize sustainability and energy management perceive Energy Star Certification as a symbol of excellence. This certification sets the benchmark, offering a tangible framework for reducing energy consumption and operational costs. But, what exactly is this certification? How can facilities managers benefit from this government-approved certification?
What is Energy Star Certification?
Energy Star Certification is a designation set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Buildings and facilities that meet stringent energy efficiency standards receive this certification.
It signifies that the buildings adhere to their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. May it be commercial buildings or industrial facilities, earning this certification is a testament to the buildings' operational excellence and responsibility for resource management.
Trusted by several businesses worldwide, it is a stamp of approval, showing everyone you're serious about reducing energy consumption, saving money, and protecting the planet.
How to earn an Energy Star Certification?
Energy runs buildings! Consider the innumerable batteries or the data centers that use 1,000 kWh of energy per square meter! Furthermore, even the coolers used contribute equally to building energy expenses. It is indeed a battle to combat the skyrocketing bills while trying to stay in alignment with the environment-conscious design.
Let's dig deep into the topic of how to get your buildings on the radar of sustainable energy ratings.
1. Assess Your Building:
Assess and plan thoroughly. Begin with a clean slate and create a baseline understanding of your energy consumption by a building energy audit. This will give you a sneak peek into the facility's current energy implementation. This serves as an identifier to look for areas of improvement.
Develop a comprehensive energy management plan by working with your team to establish achievable, energy-saving goals. Aligned with Energy Star benchmarks, establish specific goals, timelines, and actionable strategies.
2. Implement Improvements: Would upgrading equipment to energy-efficient refrigerators and the most energy-efficient HVAC system work? Yes, absolutely! But alongside that, you must optimize all building systems, implement LED lighting, and also look to improve with simple actions like sealing air leaks, etc.
3. Measurement and Verification: Post the initial energy audit, run another audit post the new strategy and changes. Monitor your progress, document your actions, and gather data to prove your energy savings with the recent changes.
Benchmark your buildings with Energy Star Portfolio Manager is a positive move for buildings, considering the National Building Performance Standards (BPS) Coalition set by the Biden government to lower the energy used in buildings. Roughly 25% of commercial buildings in the US are using Energy Star Portfolio Manager, making it a popular benchmark tool in the industry.
4. Documentation and Application: Gather relevant documentation for the EPA, including energy bills, equipment specifications, and performance data. Once it is done, all you have to do is apply for Energy Star Certification through their official online portal. Adhere to the program criteria and also submit the necessary documents and evidence of compliance for the certification.
5. Verification and Recognition: Upon submission of the application, a thorough review and verification will take place. Post the confirmation, businesses receive an official Energy Star Certification for that facility. Celebrate and showcase your Energy Star label to your peers, stakeholders, and your customers! It will elevate your business portfolio and your commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.
How Can Energy Star be Your Facilities Management BFF?
This certification is indeed a smart move for your building and you cannot resist taking it up. Achieving it will give you the edge in comparison to your competitors. Besides, you cannot deny the benefits that this certification offers.
Below are a few notable benefits that help you in outshining against your competitors.
Slash energy costs
Nationwide, ENERGY STAR-certified buildings use 35% less energy than their non-certified counterparts! Imagine this: you receive lower utility bills while adding more resources for building improvements.
Sustainability at its best
Buildings can pledge and showcase their commitment to the environment by reducing the overall carbon footprint. To add to it, these certified buildings have assured the attainment of 35% fewer greenhouse gas emissions. You attract like-minded individuals and tenants who value sustainability and highlight your brand image.
Improve building performance
Earning an Energy Star certification is not an easy task but involves a thorough evaluation and optimization process from the government. You hustle to maintain its standard parameters, which, in turn, are momentous in enhancing your building portfolio. A smart energy management system is crucial in aiding you to identify inefficiencies sooner and continuously gain valuable insights to improve your building's performance.
Boost tenant satisfaction
Comfortable, energy-efficient, and smart spaces make happy tenants! A healthy tenant leads to improved reviews and word of mouth for your brand and your building. It could be something as simple as consistent temperatures, better air quality monitoring and reduced noise levels. All of which contribute to a more productive and enjoyable environment for the user on a single, hassle-free, and user-friendly platform.
Let us recall once again that this isn't a one-time deal! Maintaining Energy Star certification does require an ongoing commitment towards mending strategies: outdated strategies, strategies that worked, and new strategies! The outcome may not always be expected, but it does give you the edge to stay ahead of the business curve.
