Digital and AI: Key to Achieving Net-Zero Buildings

Urgency for Sustainable Buildings

The building sector, responsible for up to 37% of energy-related CO2 emissions, is under pressure to become sustainable. With half of the existing building stock expected to still be in use by 2050, upgrading existing buildings is crucial to meet 2030 decarbonization goals. The solution lies in digital technology.

Digital maturity, a measure of a building’s ability to use digital technology for energy and operational efficiency, is essential for future-proofing buildings. Digitally mature buildings can reduce energy consumption, carbon intensity, and operational costs, avoiding the risk of becoming obsolete.

Digital technology enables precise conditioning of each space within a building, optimizing energy use. Integrating digital solutions is typically faster and more cost-effective than traditional retrofits. For example, Accenture has deployed over 3,000 submeters globally, showcasing effective energy management across diverse office spaces.

Benefits Beyond Decarbonization

A digital-first strategy not only aids in decarbonization but also enhances overall building performance. This includes reducing equipment failures, extending equipment lifespan, and improving occupancy experience, resulting in healthier, safer, and more productive spaces.

Digital solutions can be implemented with minimal disruption and are applicable across various building types. Predictions suggest up to a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions from existing buildings, with a potential retrofit market reaching $1 trillion annually by 2035.

Establishing digital maturity is the first step towards building optimization. This involves monitoring energy and carbon usage and applying AI-driven predictive maintenance to enhance performance. For new constructions, digital twin solutions like building information modeling can be utilized from the start.

Siemens’ Smart Building Suite and Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure™ solutions are examples of digital technologies optimizing building operations and reducing emissions. Siemens implemented a global utility monitoring and carbon reporting solution for a client, leading to operational efficiencies and emission reduction.