Smart Energy Voices - Episode 99

Smart Energy Voices - Episode 99

Seizing the Day: Decarbonization as an Organizational Opportunity

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In this episode of Smart Energy Voices, Debra Chanil welcomes back Becky Wacker, the Director of Energy Services Sales at Trane Commercial. In Episode 88, they dug into the challenges and opportunities that commercial building operators face today in light of their decarbonization efforts.

In this new episode, Becky discusses how to seize decarbonization as an organizational opportunity and provides a framework for navigating complexity and prioritizing where to turn decarbonization into a competitive advantage. 

 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

  • Regulatory push for decarbonization (2:42)
  • Impact of decarbonization in different areas of an organization (6:46)
  • Breaking down silos within organizations (10:23)
  • Cost savings and improved operational efficiency (13:05)

Decarbonization: Push Factors and Organizational Perspective

There's widespread pressure to make buildings more sustainable. New and evolving regulations are forcing owners to curb energy use in existing buildings as well as new construction, and studies show people want to buy from and work for companies committed to protecting the planet.

A 2022 study by Nielsen IQ found 78% of U.S. consumers claim sustainability matters, and 30% are inclined to buy products labeled as sustainable. Sustainable Brands reported that 96% of U.S. consumers intend to behave in a way that protects the planet, with 36% stating they always do. This type of consumer demand doesn't only impact direct consumer markets; it also extends to B2B settings, influencing supply chain decisions and sustainability efforts, even among suppliers like steel manufacturers that may not directly engage with consumers.

The need for resilience against climate threats and future-proofing drives decarbonization, ensuring reliable, uninterrupted operations amid rising grid demand.

Beyond the Challenge: Identifying Opportunities

Decarbonization presents chances to add organizational value, not just meet rules. Energy-efficient building upgrades can make spaces more comfortable, functional, and productive. Hospital lighting improvements may increase patient safety and staff efficiency. Better school air quality can improve student engagement and learning. Cost savings from these projects can be reinvested in developing staff, upgrading technology, and supporting broader organizational objectives.

Breaking Down Silos: The Importance of Collaboration

Collaboration among various departments such as finance, legal, and facilities is important. They need to work together on the complexities of funding, incentives, and implementation processes related to sustainability initiatives. This collaboration helps align sustainability goals with the company's mission and fosters an engaged and innovative culture.

Investment and Funding

Financial tools to support decarbonization efforts and make them economically practical include tax incentives, utility rebates, green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, and virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs). These mechanisms help cover the costs of projects and connect them to organizational priorities. Additional funding sources can make high-efficiency upgrades more affordable, providing first-cost savings and considerable long-term operational savings.

Disclaimer: Trane does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material is for informational purposes only and it should not be relied on for tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax law is subject to continual change. All decisions are your responsibility, and you should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors. Trane disclaims any responsibility for actions taken on the material presented.

Resources & People Mentioned

Connect with Becky Wacker

Becky Wacker is the Director of Sales for Energy Services at Trane by Trane Technologies, leading acquisition and implementation of complex facility programs and projects. She has 15 years of experience helping customers leverage their buildings to better meet their organizational goals, with a particular passion for decarbonization and efficiency.

Becky received her Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Minnesota while winning two Division I National Championships with the Women’s Ice Hockey team. She sits on the board for Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM) and National Association of Energy Service Companies (NAESCO), and can often be found in a sports venue playing, watching, or coaching in her spare time.

 

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