Commercial buildings depend on air conditioning for comfort and productivity, but traditional systems consume significant energy and contribute to carbon emissions. Rising electricity costs and updated regulations highlight the need for efficient alternatives that reduce energy use while maintaining performance.
Australia has introduced stricter environmental regulations, including limits on refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential (GWP). Since July 2024, Australia has banned small air conditioning equipment using refrigerants with a GWP over 750, including single-head split systems, portable air conditioners, and window/wall units.
From July 2025, this ban will extend to multi-head split systems. These changes drive businesses to upgrade their systems to meet compliance and reduce their environmental impact.
Energy-Efficient Systems
Investing in energy-efficient air conditioning units lowers electricity consumption and operating costs. Systems with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings offer better performance. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and inverter-driven compressors adjust cooling capacity based on demand, preventing energy waste.
Smart thermostats and occupancy sensors optimise temperature control by adjusting cooling based on room occupancy, reducing energy use while maintaining comfort.
Preventative Maintenance and Optimisation
Routine maintenance extends system lifespan and ensures efficiency. Blocked filters, dirty coils, and uncalibrated controls force systems to work harder, increasing energy consumption. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Replacing air filters to maintain airflow and efficiency
- Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils to prevent strain on the system
- Checking refrigerant levels for proper cooling performance
- Sealing duct leaks to prevent conditioned air loss
- Calibrating thermostats and controls for accurate temperature regulation
Proactive maintenance minimises breakdowns, reduces repair costs, and optimises energy efficiency.
Renewable Energy Integration
Using renewable energy sources reduces reliance on grid electricity. Advances in battery storage systems now enable businesses to store excess solar energy efficiently, ensuring uninterrupted cooling operations even during non-sunlight hours.
Solar power is a viable solution for commercial buildings, with rooftop solar panels offsetting energy consumption. Solar-assisted air conditioning systems use photovoltaic panels to power compressors, reducing dependence on traditional electricity sources.
Battery storage systems allow excess solar energy to be stored for use during non-sunlight hours, lowering energy demand from the grid and ensuring continuous cooling. Businesses integrating renewable energy must consider system capacity, storage requirements, and return on investment to optimise energy use.
Demand Response Strategies
Peak electricity demand strains energy infrastructure and increases costs. Demand response programs allow businesses to adjust cooling loads based on real-time grid conditions. Automated control systems enable dynamic temperature adjustments, reducing energy use during peak hours.
Load-shifting strategies, such as pre-cooling buildings during off-peak hours, further optimise energy consumption. Participating in demand response programs can reduce costs and support grid stability.
Pre-cooling buildings during off-peak hours and integrating automated energy management systems can optimise energy consumption while maximising financial incentives.
Green Building Certifications
Sustainable air conditioning aligns with industry-recognised certifications. Green building standards, such as the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) and Green Star, have been updated to emphasise decarbonisation and improved building performance.
As of January 2025, all new projects must register under Green Star Performance v2, with mandatory compliance by January 2026.
NABERS has also introduced an Embodied Carbon rating tool to measure and compare upfront embodied carbon emissions in new buildings and major refurbishments. Achieving NABERS Energy ratings is crucial for Climate
Active carbon-neutral certification, requiring at least a 4-star rating for offices and shopping centres and a 3-star rating for other building types.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Sustainability includes maintaining a healthy indoor environment. In addition to UV light purification, integrating biophilic design elements, such as indoor plants and natural ventilation, has been shown to improve indoor air quality and occupant well-being.
Poor air quality affects productivity and well-being. Businesses can enhance indoor air quality through:
- High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture airborne pollutants
- Demand-controlled ventilation to regulate airflow based on occupancy
- Low-emission materials to reduce indoor pollutants
- UV light purification to eliminate bacteria and viruses in HVAC systems
- Biophilic design, such as green walls and increased natural airflow, to enhance workplace air quality
Cleaner air reduces health risks, enhances employee comfort, and contributes to a more sustainable workspace.
Practical Steps for Businesses
Businesses adopting green initiatives in air conditioning can achieve significant benefits. Key steps include:
- Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems with smart controls
- Implementing a proactive maintenance schedule to optimise performance
- Exploring renewable energy options to reduce electricity reliance
- Participating in demand response programs for cost savings
- Pursuing green building certifications to enhance credibility
- Improving indoor air quality to create a healthier workspace
Implementing these measures ensures long-term cost savings, lower environmental impact, and improved system performance.
Sustainable Cooling Solutions for Businesses
Coles Refrigeration and Air Conditioning provides expert advice on sustainable air conditioning. Our team offers detailed assessments, helping businesses select the most efficient systems for their needs. We assist in integrating renewable energy, optimising maintenance strategies, and ensuring long-term cost savings. Contact us to enhance efficiency and improve performance with practical, energy-saving solutions.
