TLDR: The decarbonization movement is here to stay, changing how we design, operate, and maintain buildings. The BAS is critical to the success of this transition, and BAS professionals who can deliver comprehensive solutions will be in high demand. By embracing this opportunity and adapting to the changing landscape, we can help create a more sustainable future for the built environment.
In 2020, the conversation around decarbonization, ESG, and electrification was just beginning. Fast forward to today, and there’s been a massive shift in focus and investment. Most of our clients are now laser-focused on carbon savings, driving unprecedented investment in low-carbon technologies.
However, this rapid growth has also exposed a glaring issue: many of these expensive, cutting-edge systems aren’t working as intended. Why? Because the building automation system (BAS) hasn’t been properly implemented or maintained.
The BAS: The Unsung Hero of Decarbonization
Without a well-functioning BAS, all that investment in decarbonization is for naught. The BAS is the brains of the operation, ensuring that all the different systems and technologies work together seamlessly to optimize energy use and reduce carbon emissions.
We’ve seen countless examples of heat pumps sitting idle, chillers running inefficiently, and energy savings targets being missed—all due to BAS issues. It’s a frustrating reality, but it also highlights a massive opportunity for our industry.
The Opportunity for BAS Professionals
The demand for low-carbon buildings is only going to increase, and that means the demand for skilled BAS professionals will skyrocket. As regulations tighten and building performance standards become mandatory, building owners will be forced to invest in energy management and decarbonization strategies.
BAS professionals who can deliver comprehensive solutions that integrate energy efficiency, decarbonization, and electrification will be in high demand. This includes everything from data collection and analysis to system design and commissioning.
New Business Models for a Changing Landscape
The shift towards decarbonization is also creating new business opportunities. We’re seeing a growing trend of investors purchasing high-carbon buildings with the intent of retrofitting them for energy efficiency and then selling them at a premium. This presents a unique opportunity for consultants to offer “zero-carbon due diligence” services, helping investors assess the potential for decarbonization and develop strategies to maximize their return on investment.
Subscription-based services, fault detection and diagnostics, and energy management as a service are just a few examples of the innovative business models emerging in this space. By adapting their services and embracing new technologies, BAS professionals can position themselves at the forefront of this exciting transition. Subscription-based services, fault detection and diagnostics, and energy management as a service are just a few examples of the innovative business models emerging in this space. By adapting their services and embracing new technologies, BAS professionals can position themselves at the forefront of this exciting transition.
This post was created from this AHREXP 2024 | The Future of Energy Management: ESG, Decarbonization, and Electrification and the expertise of
- Moderator: Brad White, President, SES Consulting
- Panelists:
