AHU fans

Scientists around the world agree that to prevent the most devastating impacts of climate change, human-caused carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions need to be reduced by roughly 45% relative to 2010 levels by 2030, eventually reaching net-zero by 2050. Since global temperature increases are linked to the cumulative CO2 released, any ongoing emissions will continue to drive warming, thereby exacerbating climate change effects.

One strategy to help achieve this target is the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, such as ebm‑papst's EC fans in buildings, which can play a role in lowering carbon emissions.

Source:

Net Zero Climate. (n.d.). What is net zero? Net Zero Climate.

Over the lifetime of a commercial building, around 71% of total costs come from operations rather than construction. Of these operating costs, 40% is spent on energy and water, and more than half of that—about 54%—is consumed by heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This makes HVAC the single biggest cost driver in buildings. By improving HVAC efficiency, building owners can lower costs, reduce energy use, and create a more sustainable environment (Source: ABB).

Within HVAC systems, different components such as pumps and fans contribute to overall energy demand. Notably, fans account for about 40% of all electricity use in HVAC systems (Source: Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations, REHVA), making them one of the most important levers for energy savings and system optimization.

The demand for cooling is also set to grow rapidly. Over the next three decades, the use of air conditioners is projected to soar, becoming one of the leading drivers of global electricity consumption (Source: IEA). This trend makes the efficiency of HVAC systems even more critical for the future.

In many older buildings worldwide, HVAC systems, such as air handling units, still rely on traditional Alternating Current (AC) motors. Replacing these with advanced Electronically Commutated (EC) fans provides a highly effective way to cut energy consumption while improving performance and reliability.

Sources:

ABB. (n.d.). Application guide: Optimizing the total cost of ownership of HVAC systems (Rev. D).

Brelih, N. (n.d.). How to improve energy efficiency of fans for air handling units. Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations (REHVA).

International Energy Agency. (2018). The future of cooling: Opportunities for energy-efficient air conditioning.

A noticeable trend towards sustainable building practices is emerging in the region. Therefore, incorporating EC fans into your construction projects can significantly boost your chances of adhering to local government green building standards. Here are examples from Insert Country:

Companies searching for office space are prioritizing sustainability alongside key factors like location and access to talent. Even in a sluggish leasing market, businesses are increasingly drawn to high-quality, low-carbon buildings and are often willing to pay more for eco-friendly spaces. According to JLL research, this "green premium" translates to higher rents—7.1% in North America, 9.9% in Asia Pacific, and 11.6% in London. Kirsty Draper from JLL highlights that office buildings contribute to corporate emissions, making sustainability a crucial element in real estate strategies as businesses work toward their environmental goals.

Source: JLL. (n.d.). How sustainability-conscious tenants are assessing new space. JLL Insights.