Blog

Integrating Energy Efficiency Early in a Project: A Strategic Advantage, Not a Barrier!

Many believe that adding energy efficiency measures to a construction project (whether new or existing) will push back deadlines and drive costs up. In reality, when integrated at the right time — that is, at the start of the design phase — these measures help reduce overall costs and optimize timelines, while improving building performance.

At TST, integrating energy efficiency strategies is our expertise. Let us show you how these measures can optimize your projects.

A True Financial and Environmental Lever

Integrating energy efficiency strategies early in a project could be the key decision that brings your project to life. Conducting analyses from the start offers several important advantages:

1. Reducing your project and operational costs: Making smart choices during design, such as adding heat recovery systems or energy-efficient lighting, helps avoid cost overruns during the project, stabilize the budget, and reduce long-term energy bills (see the 2nd point). Identifying inefficiencies at the start of a project minimizes late corrections, which are often much more expensive.
2. Reducing your operating costs: Optimizing early in the design phase can reduce energy bills by more than 20% in the long term. An energy-efficient building can generate substantial savings over several years through smart choices in insulation, lighting, and HVAC systems.
3. Ensuring regulatory compliance: Environmental standards are becoming increasingly strict. Being able to anticipate these requirements helps avoid costly adjustments after construction, while preparing buildings for future regulations, which are likely to be even more rigorous. 
4. Maximizing your subsidies: Several financial incentives are available for projects that integrate energy innovations from the planning phase. TST helps you identify and maximize access to these programs, reducing overall project costs while contributing to a responsible energy transition.

Mistakes to Avoid

Although many project managers fear that integrating energy efficiency will increase the budget, it is actually a profitable investment. To fully benefit from it, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

1. Waiting until the final phase: Integrating energy efficiency post-construction limits options and increases costs. Early energy planning ensures smooth integration and avoids extra costs.
2. Neglecting subsidies: Many miss out on financial assistance due to a lack of guidance. These numerous and varied subsidies represent significant amounts for projects. Consult our experts to avoid missing financial opportunities.
3. Underestimating maintenance: Even the most efficient systems require regular monitoring to maintain their effectiveness. Preventive maintenance is crucial to extend the life of installations while ensuring their energy performance.

Thanks to solutions such as preliminary audits and close collaboration with all stakeholders, TST helps you meet your deadlines while achieving your sustainability goals. Your challenge, our expertise: so, when do we start?