Towards maximum energy savings in street-level commercial offices

Commercial offices located in high-traffic areas are undergoing a significant transformation in their operating model, focusing on maximizing energy savings. This evolution responds to the growing awareness of the operating costs associated with energy, which have a direct impact on the profitability of companies operating in these spaces.

 

Distribution of consumption in offices


According to data provided by Endesa, up to 40% of the electrical energy consumed in a commercial office goes to air conditioning and ventilation systems. Faced with this reality, building owners, regardless of their size, are stepping up their efforts to reduce their energy footprint.


Energy Saving Strategies

 

  • Energy Demand Reduction:

Focuses on actions on the constructive elements of the building, such as insulation and orientation, which reduce energy needs for air conditioning and other functions.

 

  • Reduction of Energy Consumption:

More efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and VRF Inverter air conditioning systems, are being implemented to reduce the energy consumption of equipment used in the building by optimizing lighting fixtures, IT equipment, machinery, fans and air conditioning systems.


These initiatives focus on optimizing lighting and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) equipment and technology, especially in offices located in existing buildings, where opportunities for improvement in the building envelope are limited.


Energy Efficiency Certifications:


In addition, companies are adopting energy efficiency certification systems, such as BREEAM®, LEED or PASSIVHAUS, to ensure that their first floor offices meet the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency.

 

energy efficiency certification

Workplace wellness

Organizations have realized that a company's success is closely related to the satisfaction and comfort of its employees, which has led to significant investments in improving various aspects of work environments. This includes the design of ergonomic and stimulating spaces, temperature control and indoor air quality.


When focusing on street-level commercial offices, this approach translates into specific adaptations to optimize the work environment. The following are considered:

  • Adequate lighting levels both in areas close to the facade and in the rest of the office.
  • Air stratification and air currents to ensure an optimal environment.
  • Rest and recreation areas are incorporated to improve employee well-being in confined spaces.

These adaptations contribute to both employee well-being and the success and profitability of commercial offices.

 

Customer Experience

Today, customer satisfaction has become the primary measure of success in business activities. Organizations are evolving toward delivering meaningful value rather than simply products or services, focusing on specific customer needs. In the context of commercial offices in high-traffic areas, this approach translates into adapting the customer experience to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.


Today, customer satisfaction has become the primary measure of success in business activities. Organizations, regardless of size, are undergoing a transformation in their approach from simply offering products or services to providing significant value by focusing on the specific needs of the customer. The customer has become central to this evolution, and workspaces are adapting to meet their specific needs. 


As we focus on street-level retail offices, the search for value is focused on the "customer experience". This is because many of the services offered by these offices are already accessible online through devices such as computers or cell phones.


 


This adaptation manifests itself in a variety of ways, combining elements that ensure customer satisfaction and an exceptional office experience:


Stimulating and Demonstrating Environment.

Modern offices are designed not only to conduct transactions, but also to provide a stimulating environment that demonstrates the overall capability of the company. This creates a positive impression on customers and reinforces their confidence in the brand.


Ease of Access

Convenience and ease of access are essential in a high-street business office. Customers must feel welcome and able to access services quickly and easily.


Transaction Speed

Efficiency in customer service is crucial. Processes must be agile and fast, which means that customers can complete their transactions efficiently and without delay.


Staff Well-Being

Customer service employees play a vital role in the customer experience. Their friendliness, knowledge and willingness directly affect customer satisfaction.


Office Comfort

Air conditioning, lighting and furniture design are designed with customer comfort in mind. Spaces must be welcoming and pleasant.


Personalizing the Experience

Technology is used to allow customers to personalize their experience. This can include the ability to adjust the temperature of a meeting room or control lighting on an individual basis, creating an environment where customers feel valued and comfortable.


The combination of these elements ensures that customers are satisfied and that the walk-in office experience is exceptional. This focus on customer experience not only drives customer satisfaction, but also contributes to the success and profitability of these offices.

By prioritizing the customer experience, companies can strengthen their position in the marketplace and foster lasting relationships with their customers.

 

by Hitachi Cooling & Heating