Basic actions to improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings in operation

Numerous studies have focused on improving energy efficiency in commercial buildings. Engineers and researchers have developed complex methods to improve energy efficiency, but buildings are often managed by non-specialised technicians who need understandable and cost-effective actions to implement in their buildings. This paper presents basic actions on which to base improvements in energy efficiency in commercial buildings in operation. Furthermore, obtained results and details of the implementation of these techniques in various buildings in the Universitat Politècnica de València are presented.

► Seven actions on which to base improvements in energy efficiency at the use stage in commercial buildings are presented.
► Accurate measurement and storage of consumption data and proper schedule of the different processes.
► Consumption must be automatically monitored and an individual must be made responsible for consumption.
► Pro-active actions are necessary and facilities must be modified to enable easier management.
► A communication via should be established between users and building managers.