Celebrating Earth Day with Energy Sobriety

Today is Earth Day, and at BAARCH, we want to share something that resonates deeply with us, both in our business practices and our personal lives. As we face a critical moment in addressing global climate change, energy sobriety isn’t just a concept we talk about; it’s a commitment we live by. It challenges us … Read more

The Critical Role of Refrigerant Management in Buildings

The Issue of Refrigerant LeakageRefrigerants are indispensable for cooling but pose significant environmental risks when leaked, contributing notably to global warming. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), refrigerant leaks account for over 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Implementing robust management practices to minimize these emissions is imperative. Commissioning, Retro-Commissioning, and DecommissioningThe commissioning of new … Read more

Unveiling the Truth: Traditional vs. Virtual Audits

Energy audits are pivotal in identifying energy-saving opportunities within buildings, leading to significant cost reductions and environmental advancements. The introduction of virtual energy audits has brought a new dynamic to this field, touted as a more streamlined and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. These digital audits promise efficiency and affordability, yet beneath this digital facade, … Read more

The Imperative of Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization in China’s Urban Expansion

The Urban Energy Paradigm In the labyrinth of global urbanization, cities emerge as the epicenters of energy consumption, accounting for 80% of the world’s usage, with buildings alone responsible for 30 to 40%. This consumption pattern, particularly in urban settings, translates to approximately one-third of global energy use, underscoring the pivotal role of the urban … Read more

Integrating Carbon Payback in Energy Audits

Rethinking Energy Efficiency The traditional scope of energy audits, which predominantly targets operational savings and Return on Investment (ROI), is evolving to encompass a vital factor: carbon payback. This shift reflects a broader industry movement towards comprehensive assessments that prioritize environmental impact across all project types, not just retrofitting. It underscores the importance of evaluating … Read more

Balancing Data and Engineering in the Path to Net Zero

Digitalization in real estate refers to the integration of digital technologies into all aspects of the real estate sector. This transformation is not just about adopting new technologies but also about changing the way buildings are designed, constructed, managed, and decommissioned. While data plays a crucial role in decarbonizing buildings, it is essential to recognize … Read more

Unpacking Green Premium and Brown Discounting

The transition towards sustainable development has introduced two pivotal concepts in the real estate and investment sectors: green premium and brown discounting. These terms reflect the financial valuation attributed to the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. This article explores how these valuations influence the market, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency and carbon … Read more