–Banco de Bogotá | Hitachi VRF project in Bogotá, Colombia
VRF
The place: Banco de Bogotá's bank buildings unlock up to 30% energy savings with Hitachi VRF technology
With a forecast of 40 bank branch installations for 2024, the smooth and accurate information exchange between Hitachi and Grupo Aval has helped to build this excellent synergy. Elvers Aya, the consultant and installer, believed from the beginning that Hitachi was the right choice for their projects.
Part of the most important features that Hitachi has to offer on these installations are: Condensers with a small footprint suitable for placement in limited spaces, high-efficiency equipment, excellent quality and reliability in the equipment and comprehensive portfolio of controls and ease of installation and commissioning.
Banco de Bogotá has more than 200 branches nationwide. Each branch had autonomy to hire a contractor for design, equipment purchase, and installation. This resulted in the bank having a variety of air conditioner brands, leading to several issues which were: Limited control over obtaining spare parts and qualified labor for repairing some equipment brands, high energy consumption, high costs for purchasing spare parts and corrective maintenance of equipment, elevated expenses on preventive maintenance of equipment (due to a higher number of condensers) and comfort issues arising from poorly executed designs.
For branches located in coastal areas, it was established as a condition to acquire condensers with anti-corrosive coating.
The key factors that drove the decision to replace the old cooling/heating system was to improve comfort in each branch due to better design and features of VRF technology, availability of equipment in the country, inventory control according to the project execution projection and most importantly to guarantee energy savings with VRF technology.
“At Banco de Bogotá, we've embraced the goal of becoming more efficient and sustainable. This led us to start a project in 2019, focused on replacing outdated air conditioning systems with the latest Inverter technology from Hitachi. Our partnership with Johnson Controls – Hitachi, established that year, is grounded in a shared vision for reducing our environmental impact and improving energy efficiency across our locations in Colombia.”
Camilo Castiblanco, Banco de Bogotá.
The solution: Guaranteed energy savings with VRF technology
At Hitachi, we understand that today's customers prioritize not just products or services but also sustainability and memorable experiences. Our commitment to meeting these evolving expectations for this project revolves around two key pillars: energy efficiency and best service. By minimizing our environmental impact, we not only contribute to a greener planet but also resonate with customers who share our commitment to corporate social responsibility.
“Over three years, we've installed more than 200 Hitachi units, a testament to their role as a valued partner in both service and support. This collaboration has significantly contributed to our sustainability targets, establishing a lasting and beneficial relationship for all involved.”
Camilo Castiblanco, Banco de Bogotá.
For Banco de Bogotá, depending on each brand´s condition and needs, the products were selected. In some cases, VRF with 4-way cassette, 2-way cassette, 1-way cassette, and ceiling suspended units were used. In others, the mentioned indoor units have been combined in the same system with an air handling unit (AHU Kit). Some of the bank branches with a VRF condenser directly connected to an AHU Kit, and some branches with RAC or PAC DX units due to their location in remote and logistically challenging areas for both the installing contractor and any equipment or spare parts deliveries.
The Management office, waiting room, advisor zone, cashier zone and ATM were the selected zones to cool/heat with Mini VRF Condensers, Side Smart, AHU Kit and AirCloud PRO controllers.
“We selected Hitachi for their energy-efficient solutions that support our commitment to sustainability and for their environmentally friendly approach, moving away from harmful R22 refrigerants. Hitachi's VRF technology also offers superior temperature management, enhancing comfort for our staff and customers, and comes with strong long-term service guarantees.”
Camilo Castiblanco, Banco de Bogotá.
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Location
Bogotá, Colombia
Project
Retrofit
Date of installation
Since 2019
Consultant and installer
Elvers Aya
