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The early electrical systems in the late 19th and 20th centuries were often inefficient, leading to energy wastage and increased costs. The world energy crisis in the 1970s, including the oil embargos and supply disruptions highlighted the vulnerability of the energy-dependent economics. This period prompted governments and organisations to consider energy efficiency measures to reduces reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate energy price fluctuations.
The back ground of energy efficiency in building electrical systems is rooted in the recognition that the buildings are significant consumers of the energy and have a substantial impact on overall energy consumption and environment sustainability.
According to Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, and the Environment and Water, the Residential buildings are responsible for around 24% of overall electricity use and more than 10% of the total carbon emission in Australia. Similarly, 25% of overall electricity use and more 10% of the total carbon emission in Australia are contributed by Commercial buildings.
Energy efficiency in building electrical system is of paramount importance in Australia, as it contributes to the range of economic, environmental, and social benefits. It assists with reducing power demand, thus lowering prices of all and reducing the risk of blackouts at peak times, such as heatwaves. Some of the benefits of energy efficiency in building electrical systems are as follows:
· Reduction in Energy Costs.
· Environmental Sustainability.
· Compliance with regulations (NNC).
· Improved Energy Security.
· Increased property Value.
· Reduction in Peak Demand.
· Infrastructure Resilience.
Energy efficiency in building electrical systems is a critical aspect of sustainable construction and operation in Australia, as it is in many other parts of the world. Improving energy efficiency not only reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission but also lowers
operational costs for building owners and occupants. Trajectory for low Energy Buildings and its Addendum were agreed by all Commonwealth State and Territory energy minister in 2019 with the key initiative to address Australia’s 40% Energy productivity improvement target by 2030 under the National Energy Productivity Plan (NEPP). Commercial Building Disclosure (CDB) is a national program which requires sellers and lessors of commercial offices spaces over 1000m2 to provide energy efficiency information to prospective buyers and tenants. Here’s an overview of energy efficiency in building electrical systems in Australia:
Australia has established stringent building codes and standards to promote energy efficiency in electrical systems. The National Construction Code (NCC) includes provisions related to energy efficiency, and the Building Code of Australia (BCA) outlines requirements for electrical systems in new and existing buildings. NCC is updated periodically, so it’s important to check the latest version for specific details. AS/NZS 3000:2018-Electrical installations provide guidelines for electrical installations in Australia and New Zealand, including those related to energy efficiency.
Lighting is a major contributor to energy consumption in buildings. Energy-efficient lighting technologies, such as LED lighting and motion sensors, are widely encouraged and adopted. Lighting controls, like daylight harvesting and occupancy sensors, help optimize lighting usage. Proper lighting design and fittings selections also contributes to energy efficiency of the building. AS/NZS 1680 series provides the guidelines for lighting levels and design in various section. Electrical engineers firms , lighting specialist and other building service consultants plays an important role in incorporating the modern lighting technologies for energy efficiency.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play a significant role in building energy consumption. Building owners are encouraged to invest in energy-efficient HVAC equipment and systems, which can be regulated by the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). BIM engineers, hydraulic engineers and other building services consultants are the expertise in this field.
Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, into building electrical systems is a common practice in Australia. Government incentives and rebates are available to encourage the adoption of solar power. Building-integrated renewable energy technologies such as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) can serve both as energy generators and building materials.
Power factor correction is a valuable strategy for improving energy efficiency, reducing electricity costs, and optimizing the performance of electrical equipment in building electrical systems in Australia.
Building management systems (BMS) are employed to monitor and control electrical systems. Smart Meters, submetering and Data logging are some of the energy monitoring systems. Real-time data analysis and remote control allow building operators to optimize energy use. Building Automation, Energy Analytics and Remote monitoring are some of the energy management systems.
Various energy efficiency rating systems, such as the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NATHERS) for residential buildings and the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) for commercial buildings, provide benchmarks and certifications for energy-efficient buildings.
Regular energy audits help building owners identify areas of improvement in their electrical systems and overall energy consumption. These audits can lead to more targeted energy-saving measures.
Educating building occupants about energy-efficient practices, such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use and temperature settings and usage of HVAC systems, can contribute significantly to energy savings.
Federal and state governments in Australia offer financial incentives, grants, and rebates to promote energy efficiency initiatives in buildings.
Proper electrical system design, including the selection of efficient components and configurations, can significantly impact energy consumption. AS/NZS 4509.1:2017 – Stand-alone power systems provides guidelines for the safe installation of stand-alone power systems, which can be part of energy-efficient building solutions.
Retrofitting older buildings with modern, energy-efficient electrical systems is a common strategy to improve energy performance.
Building projects are required to comply with energy efficiency regulations, and some may seek third-party certifications like Green Star ratings to showcase their commitment to sustainability.
In conclusion, energy efficiency in building electrical systems in Australia is a multifaceted approach that involves regulations, technology adoption, incentives, and education. The country is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable building practices, making energy efficiency a top priority in the construction and operation of buildings. The expertise in building service consultants, electrical consultants, hydraulic consultants, engineering firms, integral engineers, etc. plays a vital role in developing the energy efficiency in building electrical systems.
To learn more, get in touch with our team of Electrical Engineering experts on 1300 883 685 or info@sustena.com.au
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