Optimising Post-Implementation Performance in Energy-Efficient Buildings

Investing in energy efficiency demonstrates a long-term commitment to asset performance and environmental sustainability. However, to fully capitalise on these upgrades, a strategic post-implementation approach is essential. Whether it's optimising indoor conditions, enhancing system performance, or engaging tenants, the following strategies will help future-proof your building and maintain its value in a competitive real estate market.

1. Leverage Building Data for Continuous Optimisation

The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and building management systems (BMS) opens new opportunities for building owners and operators to monitor operational efficiency in real time. These capabilities allow for in-depth tracking of energy usage, occupant comfort, equipment performance, and overall building health.

For example, in Singapore’s humid climate, consistent monitoring of indoor air quality and humidity levels enables proactive adjustment of HVAC and dehumidification processes. This not only supports tenant comfort and well-being but also ensures that systems operate efficiently, reducing energy waste and extending equipment lifespan.

Advanced data analytics can also identify usage anomalies and recommend adjustments – transforming raw data into actionable insights. Over time, such optimisation contributes to cost savings and enhances the building’s sustainability credentials.

2. Empower Facility Teams Through Ongoing Training

With new systems come new skillsets. Ensuring that building management teams are equipped with the necessary technical knowledge is critical for operational success. Staff should be trained to operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot advanced equipment and software platforms.

Workshops, certification programmes, and partnerships with institutions like Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA) can support continuous learning. Empowered staff are better positioned to detect inefficiencies early and contribute to long-term system resilience.

Moreover, involving staff in the sustainability narrative encourages accountability and positions them as valuable stewards of the building’s performance.

3. Implement a Structured Maintenance and Monitoring Regime

Preventative maintenance is no longer optional. It is essential. A structured maintenance programme, supported by real-time monitoring, helps detect issues before they escalate into costly breakdowns.

With predictive analytics tools, owners and operators can anticipate potential failures and schedule repairs with minimal disruption. This approach not only extends equipment life but also reinforces operational consistency, an important factor for tenant satisfaction and retention.

4. Foster Tenant Engagement and Sustainable Behaviour

Tenants are important stakeholders in your building’s environmental performance. Proactive communication helps them understand the benefits of new systems and how they contribute to a greener environment.

Create channels to update tenants on sustainability initiatives and encourage feedback. Educational signage, digital newsletters, or tenant engagement events can increase awareness and foster responsible energy usage. For instance, promoting optimal indoor temperature settings (23°C–25°C)1 aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan 20302 while managing energy loads more effectively.

A well-informed tenant base is more likely to embrace guidelines and become long-term partners in your sustainability journey.

5. Review, Adapt, and Improve

Sustainability is not static. As regulations, technologies, and market expectations evolve, so too must building strategies. Regular review of system performance data and tenant feedback allows for informed adjustments.

Singapore’s green building landscape continues to progress, with certification standards such as Super Low Energy (SLE) potentially becoming the new benchmark. By anticipating these shifts, building owners can safeguard their asset’s market position and maintain competitive relevance.

Continual improvement ensures that your property not only meets compliance standards but remains at the forefront of environmental excellence.

6. Elevate Market Position Through Smart Storytelling

A green-certified, technologically advanced building is a valuable marketing asset. Highlighting sustainability achievements in brochures, press releases, and stakeholder communications signals leadership and innovation.

Owners may also consider hosting guided tours for prospective tenants or industry peers, allowing them to experience first-hand the comfort and efficiency of the upgraded environment. This strengthens the building’s brand as a forward-looking workplace of choice – especially appealing to tenants prioritising ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) commitments.

Maintaining an energy-efficient building requires ongoing attention, expertise, and strategic insight. Savills’ Energy and Sustainability Management (ESM) team partners with building owners to unlock long-term value through data-driven optimisation, regulatory alignment, and proactive management.

 Find out more here.

 This blog article is written by Savills’ Energy and Sustainability Management (ESM) team, with contributions from Stella Chew, National University of Singapore.