Efficient design can lead to a reduction in both CAPEX and OPEX cost reduction.
Electrical design within the construction sector is just like any other industry, there will always be the struggle between the balancing of innovation with cost saving.
The consulting engineer can however play a pivotal role in ensuring buildings are designed well, yet still fit into the often very tight budget constraints. It is sometimes harder to do this and still please everyone when it comes to aesthetics or what we call final fix installations, but below are just some ways we can add value to the project without adding cost.
1. Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions:
LED technology, with its lower energy consumption and longer lifespan, is a great way to cut down on both operational and maintenance costs. Smart lighting controls could further be used to enhance efficiency by adjusting illumination based on occupancy and natural light availability. The combination of the two doubles up the long term savings. This is a perfect example of spending more on the capex side, to greatly reduce opex costs.
2. Optimal Cable Sizing:
Precise calculations for cable sizing based on the actual load requirements can prevent oversizing and unnecessary expenses. Implementing this technique not only saves on material costs but also reduces energy losses, promoting sustainability. Engineers often oversize cables and breakers in order to cover themselves for any changes, but often this can be reduced if the design is given the proper attention upfront. (by all parties including the Client and other service engineers)
3. Power Factor Correction:
Depending on the efficiency of the equipment on the load side, there will often be both power quality and efficiency issues within an electrical distribution system. By implementing power factor correction measures, one can improve the power factor and reduce wasted energy that Landlords need to pay for, even if they cannot recover the costs from tenants.
4. Sustainable Design Practices:
Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, can lead to long-term cost savings by harnessing free and abundant energy from nature. Another perfect example of increased capex to enable major opex savings.
5. Life Cycle Cost Analysis:
A holistic approach to cost savings involves looking beyond the initial construction expenses. Conducting a life cycle cost analysis helps, evaluate the long-term costs associated with different design choices. While certain components may have a higher upfront cost, they might prove more cost effective in the grand scheme of a building’s life cycle.
6. Smart Building Technologies:
The rise of smart building technologies presents a good opportunity for cost savings. Implementing intelligent control systems that monitor and optimize energy usage in real-time can lead to significant reductions in operational costs.
7. Value Engineering:
Value engineering involves scrutinizing every component of the electrical design to identify cost-effective alternatives without compromising functionality or safety. By brainstorming and collaborating with other stakeholders, design engineers can uncover innovative solutions that provide the best value for money.
