Eliminating non-essential power loads - such as not allowing equipment to run all day if it is only used part of the time - will also make a significant difference in this regard .
“ Ultimately , the private sector must work with government and power supply authorities to find solutions to resolve the power issues ,” says Jackson .
“ Businesses are moving away from fully heated and cooled buildings , instead embracing passive heating and cooling solutions or decoupling their HVAC systems from fresh air supply .”
Fordyce agrees : “ Globally , industrial tenants are looking for smart solutions found in new developments to meet demand for a reduced carbon footprint . New industrial developments present an opportunity for structural and technological advances in facilities with an emphasis on decreasing energy and water consumption and efficiencies in building design . Locally , the Green Building Council South Africa ’ s ( GBCSA ) changes to the Existing Building Performance ( EBP ) rating tool to allow for the inclusion of industrial facilities is indicative of the increased demand for cleaner and greener factories and warehouses .”
“ The increased cost of fuel is creating a tipping point that is pushing the industry to implement greater resilience but at lower operating costs . In turn , this allows net zero to gain momentum from an energy reduction perspective . It has become a global trend gaining local traction as developers and tenants look for greater resilience and less reliance on Eskom ,” Jackson concludes .
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine OCT 2022 45