Free eco-construction advice for developers

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) Commercial Building Design Advice programme will offer funding for expert design advice at every stage of development.

New Zealand’s commercial buildings account for about 9% of annual energy use - worth about $1.7 billion every year.

"Highly-efficient commercial buildings use between 60% and 70% less energy than the average building. Some of the best opportunities to optimise energy efficiency in commercial buildings, like orientation to make the most of natural light, are only available during design," says EECA Commercial Programme Manager Karen Chaney.

"It is important that developers think about energy efficiency as early in the process as possible. A building is an investment - developers need to think about the kind of return they will get in 10 years’ time," she says.

Programme funding varies depending on the nature of advice, which is available during initial concept design, fit-out design, building commissioning, and post-construction energy auditing

"Getting the right advice during building design, construction and commissioning means tenants and building owners can enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency for decades to come," Chaney says.

For building owners energy efficiency means improved long-term capital values, higher occupancy rates and better rental returns.

"A recent survey by Colliers International shows 95% of tenants in New Zealand and Australia want to occupy an environmentally sustainable building. Energy efficient design and construction can help meet this demand.”