With the sobering findings coming to light from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report in recent weeks, it’s crucial now more than ever that we look to reduce our collective impact on the environment, and 101 Collins is no exception. Sustainability is one of our key values at 101 Collins, and we strive to reduce our carbon footprint wherever possible. Not only is this critical in reducing our environmental impact, but it often makes good business sense as well.
One key example of this is in our recently completed project to upgrade 900+ fixtures in our back of house areas to energy efficient LED bulbs, as part of the Victorian Energy Upgrades plan (VEU) with the goal of seeing notable savings in both carbon emissions and energy costs.
On some of the lesser-known benefits to the project, Senior Engineering and Sustainability Manager at 101 Collins John Kiff explains: “Apart from the energy savings, the lighting in these areas is now sharper and brighter. Switching from lights on/off to a sensor-controlled operation is another big impact from this project as there’s no more forgetting to turn the lights off.”
What is the Victorian Energy Upgrades Plan?
The VEU program helps Victorians cut power bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by giving households and businesses access to discounted energy-efficient products and services. The program works by setting a state-wide target for energy savings that results in a range of energy-efficient products and services being made available to homes and businesses at a discount.
Since the program was established in 2009, it has reduced Victoria’s greenhouse gas emissions by over 60 million tonnes and with its highest targets to date is looking to lock in 28 million tonnes of savings for Victoria between 2022 and 2025 – equivalent to taking more than 8.5 million cars off the road for a year.
How has 101 Collins adopted this Carbon and Cost savings strategy?
The savings for 101 Collins in both energy usage within the building, and cost of lighting are significant. The project is projected to reduce annual lighting usage by 74 percent from 314,498 kWh to just 81,338 kWh. This translates into an impressive reduction of carbon emissions by 255 tonnes per year.
Not only will the project lower the kilowatt hours used to light our BOH areas, it will also significantly lower both the direct electricity and ongoing maintenance costs. We are estimated to save just over $60,000 annually in electricity costs, and approximately $20,000 every year in maintenance, with a payback period of just 17 months.
The savings associated with the reduction in electrical outgoings will be used to purchase carbon offsets, bringing us closer towards our goal of a 4.5 stars Nabers rating this year, and becoming carbon neutral by 2025.
