With a growing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, commercial real estate (CRE) professionals are increasingly turning to AI-powered solutions to optimize building operations. One such solution is Hank, a cloud-based, AI-powered platform designed to manage and enhance HVAC systems, among other functionalities.
In this blog, we explore how Hank is changing the game in CRE management and ways to adopt smarter, more sustainable property management strategies at your properties. You’ll also find notes from experts at the recent Building Engines Connect conference supporting these takeaways.
3 ways to achieve smarter more sustainable operations
1. Commitment to energy and sustainability
The focus on sustainability and energy efficiency is becoming paramount for CRE professionals. In fact, the demand for energy efficient buildings has topped the list of sustainability priorities three years in a row, according a Building Engines report.
This is driven by market forces aimed at mitigating corporate risk and responding to climate challenges. “Climate risk is a real thing. It’s driving operational costs and fluctuating energy prices,” notes Joe Thompson, Vice President, Global Specialty Sales & Business Development, Building Engines. By integrating advanced technologies, CRE professionals can address sustainability concerns while reaping the benefits of reduced operational costs and enhanced property performance.
2. Optimizing HVAC systems with Hank
HVAC systems are critical to maintaining tenant comfort and operational efficiency in commercial properties. Hank’s AI-powered system optimizes HVAC operations to cut costs and maximize comfort.
The results are proven. “On average, we see a 20% energy reduction when a building implements Hank,” says Thompson. This efficiency is achieved through a combination of predictive and adaptive technologies, cloud-based computing, and digital twin modeling.
With Hank, property managers can select a commercial building, gather necessary information, access data, and undergo a comprehensive audit. According to Thompson, “Between 75-80% of assessments yield savings,” underscoring the platform’s effectiveness.
3. Enhancing ESG initiatives to attract talent
Today’s workforce is increasingly interested in companies that prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Implementing Hank not only serves to enhance building operational efficiency but also aids in attracting and retaining talent. As Brannon Perkison, Principal Product Manager, Sustainability, Building Engines, notes, “It helps attract talents; younger people want to be involved in ESG initiatives.”
Furthermore, Hank integrates with ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager (ESPM), which delivers globally recognized energy savings ratings. This encourages sustainability and the attainment of certificates, making properties more attractive for investors looking for lower capital investment with better ESG scores.
Sustainable property management
The integration of data analytics via platforms like Hank is revolutionizing commercial real estate management. By prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability, optimizing HVAC systems, and enhancing ESG initiatives, Hank is addressing key concerns in the CRE industry.
As Perkison suggests, “If you want to invest, buy, or renovate a building, there is a lower investment of capital with better ESG scores.”
This blend of technology and sustainability is not just a passing trend but a growing expectation in the market. Embracing such advancements will enable CRE professionals to drive substantial savings, improve tenant satisfaction, and stay competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious world.
Learn more about Hank’s advanced AI capabilities.
