Ways to Keep Your Commercial Building Out of the Red When Going Green

The number of green commercial building projects is rising. According to a recent 2018 SmartMarket report, nearly half of those participating in the survey are planning to go green in over 60% of their projects, a 20% increase. While many building owners understand the benefits of going green, there is still a perception that it is prohibitively expensive. But that is no longer the case. With smart technologies, advanced techniques and more competition, the cost of going green is on par with traditional construction methods.

LEED the Way to Green in Your Commercial Building

With more than 468 million gross square feet of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified space in the past year, the U.S. is leading the way to green buildings, according to the U.S. Green Building Council (UCGBS). Going green in your commercial building doesn’t have to be too costly, and it can save a lot of greenbacks. The typical construction costs of a green commercial building that is certified LEED Silver is only up to 3% higher than traditional construction costs. However, this small additional cost is offset by higher rental rates. A LEED-certified building gets an average 17.3% rental premium when compared to non-LEED buildings in the same location. The higher annual rent more than offsets the green construction costs by a wide margin.

Reducing Energy Costs

Approximately 30% of energy costs in a commercial building are due to heating and cooling and lighting. Installing energy-efficient HVAC equipment with a high SEER rating and LED lights can reduce energy costs by as much as 15% to 20% or more. Besides, LED lighting burns at a cooler 78 degrees, which not only helps keep buildings cooler but reduces the load on HVAC systems. Also, incorporating daylighting technologies can reduce energy costs even further. Daylighting systems automatically adjust interior lighting based on available natural light. Motion sensors can also help reduce energy costs by automatically turning off lights in offices, conference rooms, break areas, restrooms, and other areas when they are not in use.

Incorporate Solar Technology

Installing solar panels on your commercial building can cut up to 75% of energy costs, based on EnergySage data. The price of solar panels has dropped significantly over the past five years. You may even be eligible for a Federal tax credit or a rebate from your local utility. And with NetMetering, your building can sell any unused energy back to the electric service. With battery storage systems and generators, you can even have a green building that is entirely off the grid.

Whether you are planning a new construction project or retrofitting an existing commercial building, going green doesn’t have to put your project in the red. Hiring a general contractor with experience in green construction is not only good for the environment; it is good for your bottom-line as well.