End-to-end fan retrofit solutions

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: Netzeroclimate.org

To lower energy usage and improve a building's efficiency, it's important to begin by assessing how energy is distributed throughout the facility. A 2018 report from the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) found that the primary consumers of energy in buildings are mechanical systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and vertical transportation. In particular, cooling systems can use up to 60% of the total energy, while ventilation systems typically account for around 10%.

Within HVAC systems, various components such as pumps and fans contribute to energy use, with fans alone consuming up to 35% of the HVAC energy budget. Therefore, enhancing the efficiency of HVAC systems is a crucial approach to reducing overall energy consumption in buildings.

Systems such as air handling units (AHUs), condensers, cooling towers, and fan coil units work collectively to provide cooling and ventilation. A unifying factor among these systems is their reliance on fans to circulate air. In many older buildings in Singapore, these fans still operate using traditional Alternating Current (AC) motors. Replacing these conventional AC fans with more advanced Electronically Commutated (EC) fans offers a highly effective means of cutting energy consumption.

Sources: BCA and NCCS

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 several examples from Southeast Asia:

Singapore: Singapore Green Building Masterplan, MEI Regime, Energy Conservation Act
Malaysia: Green Technology Masterplan 2017 - 2030
Thailand: Thailand Energy Efficiency Development Plan 2015-2036
Indonesia: Indonesia launches National Roadmap for Green Building Implementation
Vietnam: National Energy Efficiency Programme 2019 - 2030
Philippines: Republic Act 11285

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