BEMS - the perfect fit for the UK’s retrofitting programme

While the Future Homes Standard (FHS) is exacerbating the need for property developers and house builders to incorporate energy efficient and sustainable technologies and materials into new build properties, the importance of retrofitting the UK’s current building stock cannot be understated writes Stacey Lucas, President of the Building Controls Industry.

This is even more pressing when you consider there are more than two million commercial buildings in the UK, with around 80% of these having been built to previous standards and likely to require retrofitting before 2050 to help achieve the government’s energy and carbon goals. The FHS’ title is also a little misleading, given the regulations and standards do also impact commercial buildings.

As a highly effective way of improving older building performance, building energy management systems (BEMS) could play a crucial role in retrofitting the UK’s current building stock.

However, there are often misconceptions inside and outside the industry over what retrofit entails, any perceived costs, and how it can benefit contractors, developers, and end users. Plus, many contractors, property developers and designers aren’t aware of how the implementation of BEMS can have a substantial impact on carbon emissions, occupant wellbeing and energy expenditure.

It's therefore absolutely crucial that we change the industry mindset. After all, controls should not be an afterthought – they are vital to retrofit success. In fact, BEMS can play a hugely important role in future-proofing existing buildings and helping the retrofit programme to improve energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and improve air quality across the current building stock.

Able to significantly improve existing building performance, BEMS allows the efficient integration and optimisation of new systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and security, during a required upgrade or retrofit. Furthermore, it enables smarter control, visibility, and efficiency without the need for costly and full rebuilds.

As a way of managing and controlling a building’s environment, BEMS can help building owners, property developers, facility managers, and occupants optimise energy use in real-time. Adapting to occupancy needs and environmental conditions, these innovative systems can ensure that HVAC units and lighting features only operate when needed, substantially boosting efficiency. Additionally, BEMS helps reduce energy bills and the building’s carbon footprint while supporting Return On Investment (ROI) from other retrofit investments, such as boilers.

The improved air quality and temperature regulation afforded by the implementation of BEMS can have a hugely positive impact on occupant wellbeing and productivity, too. In addition to reducing the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues, drafts can be minimised, dampness and mould avoided and consistent temperatures can be assured all year round.

It’s also worth noting the possible future financial benefits that come with implementing BEMS into existing buildings as part of retrofit programmes. In a highly competitive market, having energy efficient and well-maintained buildings can give building owners a significant advantage, with potential buyers or tenants more likely to choose properties focused on sustainability and energy efficiency.

The ever-tightening energy efficiency and sustainability regulations, such as the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), mean building controls and automation systems are increasingly becoming a necessity for those in charge of building management. Indeed, BEMS is able to provide up-to-date and accurate data and insights to help support compliance and certification.

The government’s 2050 net zero target is rightfully focusing the built environment’s efforts on the specification and incorporation of energy efficient systems and materials. However, as highlighted, it’s crucial the construction industry pays close attention to the retrofitting of the UK’s existing building stock as much as the design and construction of new builds.

By enabling remote monitoring and management, facilitating predictive maintenance and providing accurate and real-time data optimisation opportunities, BEMS can work hand-in-hand with retrofitting projects to improve energy efficiency, reduce operational costs and enhance building performance.

With that in mind, I would urge all those overseeing retrofitting projects to consider the incorporation of innovative technology, such as BEMS, into the upgrade or refurbishment design at the earliest possible stage. Doing so will help those across the industry play their part in the decarbonisation of the UK’s built environment and ensure a greener and brighter future.