Energy Efficiency Upgrades for Your Commercial Property
4 min read.
As energy prices continue to rise and sustainability becomes a growing priority for tenants and investors, commercial property managers are under increasing pressure to reduce operating costs and improve building performance. In this article we look at the most impactful upgrades property managers can make and how they can benefit your bottom line.
LED Lighting Retrofits
One of the most cost-effective upgrades is switching to LED lighting. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent lighting and last significantly longer, reducing both utility and maintenance costs. Upgrading common areas, parking garages, and office spaces to energy-efficient lighting is a fast, visible improvement that tenants notice and appreciate. Additionally, many utility providers offer rebates or incentives for lighting retrofits, making this upgrade even more attractive.
Smart Building Controls
Installing smart thermostats, motion sensors, and automated lighting systems can optimize energy use across your property. These systems help regulate heating, cooling, and lighting based on occupancy or time of day, reducing unnecessary energy consumption without sacrificing tenant comfort.
In large buildings, building management systems can monitor and control HVAC, lighting, and ventilation in real time, offering data insights that further enhance operational efficiency.
HVAC System Upgrades and Maintenance
HVAC accounts for a significant portion of a building’s energy usage, so upgrading to high-efficiency units or retrofitting older systems with energy-saving components can have a big payoff. Regular maintenance, like cleaning filters, sealing ducts, and calibrating controls, can also extend the life of the system and improve energy performance. Consider conducting an energy audit to identify areas where HVAC inefficiencies may be driving up costs.
Window Films and Glazing
Heat gain through windows can significantly impact indoor temperatures and increase reliance on air conditioning. Installing window films or upgrading to energy-efficient glazing can reduce solar heat gain, improve occupant comfort, and lower cooling costs. These solutions are especially beneficial in older buildings or those with large window areas that face direct sunlight.
Insulation and Air Sealing
Improving insulation in walls, roofs, and attics can help maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling needs. Air leaks, often found around windows, doors, and service openings, can also undermine energy efficiency. Sealing these leaks is a low-cost measure that can significantly improve energy performance in any commercial building.
Solar Energy Solutions
While the upfront investment is higher, solar panels can provide long-term savings and energy independence. Some properties also benefit from government incentives or net metering programs that make solar more financially viable.
Energy efficiency upgrades aren’t just good for the planet, they’re smart business. By prioritizing high-impact, cost-effective changes, commercial property managers can reduce operational expenses, future-proof their buildings, and meet the growing demand for sustainable spaces.
References
Gouvernement du Canada. (2025, January 16). Government of Canada. Natural Resources Canada. https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/building-energy-efficiency/retrofitting
The benefits of energy-efficient renovations in commercial buildings. BDC.ca. (n.d.). https://www.bdc.ca/en/about/analysis-research/benefits-energy-efficient-renovations-commercial-buildings
Holbert, C. (2023, November 9). How to make a commercial building more energy-efficient. CIM. https://www.cim.io/blog/how-to-make-a-commercial-building-more-energy-efficient
About Westhaven Group
WHERE INTEGRITY AND RELIABILITY MEET.
Westhaven Group oversees a collection of companies involved in managing and trading over 600,000 square feet of real estate across the City of Toronto and surrounding areas.
With multiple years of experience in the industry, our team works within residential and commercial spaces ensuring every aspect of real estate investment is covered.
Westhaven Group is a go-to source for all of your company needs.