Sneha K. Padinhareveedu | MEL Candidate | Dec 16, 2022
Mentors: Dennis R. Ranada, Lakshman Pulibandla, CBRE Global Workplace Solutions
Abstract
British Columbia has committed to achieving net-zero carbon pollution by 2050. In accordance with its long-term strategy, the province intends to reduce emissions by more than 40% by 2030 compared to 2007. As a result, the Ministry of Citizenship, and its Real Property Division (RPD) are reviewing and evaluating climate risk assessment methodology for their property portfolio. The RPD owns, leases, or manages approximately 1556 properties across British Columbia on behalf of other government ministries and departments and is looking for a climate change risk assessment approach that meets their requirements for assessing risk on such a large and diverse portfolio. To meet these goals, CBRE proposes strategic investments in buildings and technology aligned with the capital investment planning process by identifying innovations and initiatives in collaboration with the RPD team and introducing market best practices annually.
This capstone project is a pilot study conducted by CBRE on one of the properties in the RPD’s property portfolio to identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency through energy retrofit measures and make the building capable of adaptation for climate resilience. This study began with an energy audit and data analysis to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. Then, using RET Screen energy modelling software, energy conservation measures like improving the insulation of the building envelope, upgrading the equipment and lighting efficiency, and performing other energy conservation measures were implemented. The outcome of this study is the total energy saving of the facility after the energy retrofit and its associated cost of the upgrade to facilitate a viable decision.