It's no secret that people are making a sincere effort to live and work more sustainably. With innovations in sustainability growing every year, it is becoming much easier and more affordable to do so, and the positive environmental impacts are substantial.
This article details residents' preferred forms of sustainable infrastructure and what purchasers should look for in multi-tenanted buildings when making their next investment.
Renewable Onsite Power Generation
With the sharp increase in energy prices, it will be no surprise that renewable onsite power generation, like that produced from solar panels, is one of the most attractive forms of building infrastructure.
Given that we live in Australia and are graced with hours upon hours of sunshine every day, it seems only wise to harness that power. Solar power is the most preferred renewable option available today.
GreenPower Supply
Owners Corporation members are now in favour of GreenPower, a 100% renewable energy source, being supplied to their buildings. GreenPower independently audits electricity providers to make sure the right amount of renewable energy is fed into the grid on the customers' behalf. With GreenPower, residents and purchasers are guaranteed that the renewable energy they are purchasing is sourced from accredited providers.
Future-Proofed Appliances
We know that residents are looking for living spaces with appliances that will remain useful in the future. Gas infrastructure may become redundant in the not-too-distant future, given that natural gas is a methane-producing greenhouse gas which is a non-renewable resource. Ensuring that the appliances in an apartment are powered with electricity safeguards against future replacement costs.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Beyond solar power and future-proofed appliances, residents are also seeking energy-efficient solutions in other areas. This can include double-glazed windows and insulation, which both improve a room's temperature control. Draught-proofing rooms and controlled ventilation are also great ways to maintain the climate of a living area.
Light emitting diode (LED) lighting offers more efficient energy solutions as well. It is estimated that LED lights can last 40 times longer than incandescent, and at least four times longer than fluorescent. This efficiency has directly resulted in LED lighting being our recommended illumination option for many years.
Smart home automation also provides users with greater control when it comes to managing living space amenities. Thanks to smart-device applications and control, users can remotely control the lighting, heating, and air conditioning of a room. These applications also provide data that details the energy consumption of particular devices and appliances. Meaning you can observe what device/appliance uses the most power and when it is most efficient to use it.
Adequate Car Parking Facilities and EV charging.
The way people transport themselves and their loved ones around has evolved significantly over the years. In our recent article, Car parking in the modern day Owners Corporation, we detailed the most popular vehicle needs and requests of tenants. These needs/requests are ensuring that there is an adequate number of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging facilities, spaces for car-share vehicles, and bicycle storage within a building.
If you would like to know more about the sustainable infrastructure that we consider most desirable, and our services as an Owners Corporation management company, or want to hear more about our environmental pledges, get in touch here.
