White Paper Issue 6, October 2024

Think…Megawatts and Megatrends

Commercial office buildings and precincts can slash energy bills by tapping into energy contracts with partial or full exposure to the wholesale market- an opportunity many owners overlook.

As the grid decarbonises, daytime prices drop due to abundant solar power, while evening costs spike as fossil fuel plants take over. By optimising building loads through battery storage, thermal energy storage, and smart air conditioning adjustments, buildings can utilise cheaper and cleaner energy. The introduction of mass-market, commercial-grade, vehicle-to-grid technology will offer even more potential for savings.

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This strategy not only lowers energy costs but also cuts emissions by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and maximising solar integration. While the industry has focused on supply-side solutions like grid-scale batteries, demand-side optimisation in existing buildings offers a more efficient and cost-effective path forward.

This shift has the potential to transform the energy market – reducing electricity bills and the cost of public infrastructure while enhancing environmental performance. It also allows more renewables to come onto the grid.

Authored by ADP Consulting Director and Building Revitalisation Lead Alex Sear, and with insights from energy expert Craig Roussac (CEO, Buildings Alive) , the latest issue of our “Think” series encourages readers to consider a new perspective in managing one of the biggest challenges facing the commercial property sector today.