How Smart Building Solutions Can Reduce Operational Costs for BOMA Members 

The latest BOMA International playbook on smart building technology offers helpful tips to cut operational costs while running your building more efficiently. 

What You Need to Know

Buildings use 35% of the energy in the U.S. and cause 30% of global carbon emissions. This means there’s a lot of pressure to make them more efficient. 

Smart technologies, like automated heating and cooling, lighting systems, and sensors, are more affordable than ever.

These tools provide real-time data on energy use, air quality, and how spaces are being used. With this information, you can make quick changes to save energy and reduce costs. 

In California, energy efficiency rules are strict, and more regulations are coming. Using smart technology now will help you avoid fines and keep your operating costs down in the future. 

How it Impacts You

Smart building technologies offer multiple ways to save money. Trane Autonomous Control found that their systems can cut energy use, especially in heating and cooling, reducing costs by up to 25%.

Other findings included their systems extending equipment service life up to 50%. As well as their systems helping cut carbon emissions by as much as 40%, which helps meet sustainability goals. 

At the same time, they create a more comfortable environment for tenants, improving their satisfaction and increasing the chances they will stay long-term. 

The best part of smart building technology is that implementation can happen without disruption. You don’t need to replace your existing equipment.  

This allows you to gradually install these technologies, avoiding big upfront costs and keeping operations running smoothly. 

How to get started: 

• Start Small: Use free tools like ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager to track your building’s energy use. 

• Use What You Have: Begin with the data and systems you already have in place. 

• Get Expert Help: Partner with professionals to guide your smart building journey. 

• Look for Incentives: Explore utility and government incentives to help with the costs. 

• Set Goals: Define clear targets for saving energy and reducing carbon emissions. 

Stay Connected

Smart building technology is key to staying competitive and meeting sustainability regulations. BOMA members can save money, attract tenants, and reduce operational costs by adopting these technologies. 

Keep following BOMA on the Frontline for more updates and join us at our Sustainability Policy Briefings to hear from experts.