Pre-Construction audits

Get your energy efficiency right – from the start

 

For new buildings or extensions, we work with architects and building owners to achieve optimal energy efficiency performance right from the start.

It is an unfortunate fact that quite often important aspects of future energy efficiency are overlooked. Often shortcomings are rectified not long after constrcution, but at a much higher cost.

One noteworthy example is the Gonnellabah Aquatic Centre. 2 years after opening, Powersmart were called in to reduce the higher than anticipated power costs. We identified some short-comings that could have been addressed during the design phase, resulting in 32% energy cost savings.

Similarly, for the Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay, a multi-functional regional community and sports facility, we were able to identify and realise cost savings of 63% only 3 years after opening.

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GSAC, Goonellabah

When conducting a Pre-Con energy efficiency audit, our focus includes the following areas:

 

  • Building envelope:  Orientation, insulation, making use of passive solar features, reducing heat ingress, heat recovery etc.
  • Air conditioning: Efficiency of systems, making use of Smart Energy technologies, appropriate zoning of a/c areas
  • Refrigeration:  Efficiency of systems, Smart Energy technologies, energy efficient entry doors to cold and freezer rooms, efficient organisation of refrigerated areas.
  • Lighting:  Making use of the most advanced technologiesm such as LED and/or Induction lighting. Using appropriate control technology (Sensors).
  • Pumping:  Making use of VFD technology and energy efficient piping layout.
  • Renewable energy:  Exploring the potential for solar power and potentially battery storage for their contribution to the buildings operational needs. Making sure that the roof design supports best possible use of solar power.
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LED lighting at the Cavanbah Centre

Every kWh not used from the start is the cheapest from of energy cost savings.

Powersmart Energy Efficiency guarantees that the building design is as energy efficient as technology allows, at the lowest possible cost.

Builders usually try to install stock-standard and less efficient technology in order to keep their quotation low.

Installing the most energy efficient technology, at the best possible price together with the highest quality and reliability, can save thousands of dollars over time. Typically, the extra costs are recovered with months or a few years.

Our engineers have the knowledge and expertise to identify any short falls at the design phase and make sure you are not paying more for energy than absolutely neccessary.