The Role of Electricians in Sustainable Building Practices
These days, most of us actively play a part in minimizing our environmental impact to help preserve the planet. Melbourne, with its high quality of life, boasts world-renowned structures with top-of-the-line electrical planning, borne out of the efforts of Melbourne electricians. Their skills and knowledge in the trade are crucial when it comes to installing energy-efficient electrical systems that not only maximize resource efficiency but also minimize environmental impact. In this article, we’ll elaborate on the role of electricians in sustainable building practices.
They help combine energy resources.
Back then, we were only limited to solar panels as the lone form of sustainable technology, but there are many more innovations introduced in the past few decades, and many more are being invented as we speak. Here are a few innovations often seen in buildings:
Solar power systems. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are one of the sustainable technologies used in many buildings. Many residential areas even employ residential electricians to install at least a panel or two in their homes, which are often located on the roof. Electricians ensure that the solar PV systems, along with their other components, are installed properly. One of the reasons many people have started integrating this system into their homes is they lessen their dependence on fossil fuels. As we all know, fossil fuels are notorious for producing a variety of hazardous air pollutants, like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and mercury, to name a few. At least by using solar power systems, we’re lowering our greenhouse gas emissions, thus promoting cleaner air and a better environment.
Heat pumps. Heat pumps are a sustainable option compared to traditional heating systems since they don’t burn fuel and rely on electricity to operate. Although some residences and establishments still have the traditional heating systems at their places, many commercial electricians are making the switch and recommending both homeowners and business owners do the same.
Geothermal systems. Although not often seen in homes, some infrastructures utilize geothermal systems as part of their sustainable practice. Similar to heat pumps, this system does not rely on fossil fuel; instead, it uses heat from the earth’s core, which is essentially limitless.
On top of all these systems and resources, there are also other systems like wind turbines, of which electricians are often at the forefront when it comes to installation and maintenance, though the latter is less used in a residential setting.
Electricians promote energy efficiency.
Business owners rely on commercial electricians to ensure the smooth operation of their business; in case of electrical emergencies, it affects the business in a way that the owner will have to halt operations. This is why there’s high regard for the importance of electrical maintenance for commercial properties, and oftentimes, you’ll see an electrician on standby in case of unlikely events. Additionally, it’s also their job to promote energy efficiency and recommend products that can help lower utility costs, besides providing adequate lighting solutions per area. LED bulbs and fixtures are the most commonly used lighting fixtures, known for their optimal energy savings capacity and proven lighting quality.
Smart home technology. One of the most-used and convenient innovations we’ve seen in recent years is the introduction of smart home technology—but it’s not just limited to your home; it can be used in your office, workshops, restaurants, practically anywhere, as long as there’s electricity and the internet. Electricians are tasked with the installation of electrical devices and units like smart thermostats, lighting controls, and security systems that allow owners to monitor and control their energy consumption, leading to quantifiable energy savings.
Efficient electrical systems. Compared to before, the design of electrical systems has also evolved and adopted sustainability into their system. It’s the electrician’s job to check if the plans are followed thoroughly and all the electrical units are installed efficiently. They check all the wiring, the quality of materials, and the circuit design, ensuring that there’s little to no energy loss.
Electricians advocate for the advancement of sustainable building practices.
Although the Australian government doesn’t mandate every structure to be “green” and sustainable, there’s a growing number of stringent regulations urging owners to adopt sustainable practices, especially for commercial buildings. Their most well-known incentive is the Green Star rating system, wherein some structures need to meet a specific Green Star rating. Electricians contribute to this cause since they ensure that all the components and wirings of a building’s electrical system—even the system itself—adhere to strict energy efficiency and sustainability requirements.
They educate building owners on sustainable practices.
Electricians also extend their knowledge by educating building owners about the advantages of adopting sustainable electrical practices; some of them are even pretty simple, which we’ve been doing since forever. Here are a few samples:
Choosing Energy Star appliances. Most appliances are now labeled with stickers that showcase their energy star rating, which corresponds to how much energy they consume; the less they consume, the better.
Optimize their lighting. Compared to incandescent bulbs and fluorescent lights, make the switch to LED lighting since they not only last longer but also consume less energy.
Monitor their energy consumption.
Unplug appliances when not in use. This is a simple act that we often overlook, but it goes a long way. Standby power, or “vampire power, still consumes electricity and builds up over time, despite the device or unit not being used.
Use power strips. To ensure that the electricity gets cut off when not in use, consider using smart power strips since they automatically cut power to devices when not in use.
Utilize natural light and ventilation. Instead of relying on your lighting, use natural light to illuminate the areas of your home; open the curtains and blinds to let in not only light but fresh air as well.
They stay updated on industry trends and the latest innovations.
There’s always new technology being developed designed to bring convenience to users, but what makes it even better is that it’s also designed with sustainability in mind. As part of their career development, electricians are required to stay informed on the latest advancements in sustainable building technologies that effectively contribute to a better future.
Electricians are more than just handymen who’ll fix whatever electrical issues you have. They help keep us safe and also do their share in making this world a little better through sustainable practices.
