Achieving sustainability in South African commercial properties: the impact of innovative technologies on energy consumption

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine the concept of innovative technologies and identify their impacts on the environmental sustainability of commercial properties in South Africa. This slow adoption is attributed to South Africa’s energy building regulation, SANS 204, which does not promote energy-conscious commercial property development. Furthermore, it was observed that buildings waste significant amounts of energy as electrical appliances are left on when they are not in use, which can be prevented using innovative technologies. Design/methodology/approach The researchers attempted to evaluate the impact of innovative technologies through an overarching constructivist mixed-method paradigm. The research was conducted using a multi-case study approach on green buildings which had innovative technologies installed. The data collection took the form of online, semi-structured interviews, where thematic analysis was used to identify emergent themes from the qualitative data, and descriptive statistics was used to evaluate the quantitative data. Findings It was found that implementing innovative technologies to reduce the energy consumption of commercial buildings could achieve energy savings of up to 23%. Moreover, a commercial building’s carbon footprint can be reduced to 152CO2/m2 and further decreased to 142CO2/m2 through the adoption of a Photovoltaics plant. The study further found that innovative technologies improved employee productivity and promoted green learning and practices. Originality/value This research demonstrated the positive impact innovative technologies have on energy reduction and the sustainability of commercial properties. Hence, facility managers should engage innovative technologies when planning a commercial development or refurbishment.

Examine the impact of green methods and technologies on the environmental sustainability of supportive education buildings, perspectives of circular economy and net-zero carbon operation

“…The case study consumes 125 KW/m 2 compared to SANS 204 energy standard of 600 KW/m 2 , resulting in a 4.8 times energy efficiency rating, a 503.5 kg CO 2 e/kWh per m 2 reduction and 5,286,750 kg CO 2 e/kWh total building square meter electricity CO 2 reduction. These findings highlight the GMTs contribution toward the case study’s ability to achieve a CE and carbon neutral operational benchmark which is aligned with the findings of Moghayedi et al (2022) and Windapo and Moghayedi (2020).…”

“…This practical implementation challenge reflects a conflicting response, given the university’s strong commitment to sustainability since 2012. Similar conflicting perceptions and engagement among internal stakeholders regarding the integration of environmental sustainability within organizations have also been highlighted by Moghayedi et al (2022). In addition, UCT owns a few heritage buildings that have construction and architectural restrictions in place.…”

“…Given the challenges surrounding ERBs and SEB occupants not being accountable for their own water and energy consumption have made universities high users, and more strategic approach needs to be prioritized (Ryan et al , 2010). However, conflicting internal stakeholder perceptions and engagement about integrating environmental sustainability within organizations is arguably the main barrier for facility managers to achieve net-zero operational goals (Moghayedi et al , 2022). Equally, it becomes apparent that financial limitations prevent universities from implementing sustainable practices appropriately due to competition for limited financial resources within the university (Alexio et al , 2018).…”

Assessing the influence of technological innovations and community-based facilities management on the safety and security of universities. A case study of an open campus

“…The overall response ratio reveals that male participants feel safe (6.44% + 51.48% = 57.92%) on campus. This indicates a notable gender-based difference in perceptions of safety as found by Moghayedi et al (2023).…”

Sustainable Built Environment and Its Implications on Real Estate Development: A Comprehensive Analysis

“…Despite this, a long-term financial advantage can be gained from developing environmentally responsible structures. Utilizing designs and technologies that are more energy efficient is one way to cut down on the expenses associated with operating a company [54]. The monthly electricity bill, the cost of water, and any necessary maintenance are all included in these prices.…”