It’s no secret that most industries nowadays are looking for more sustainable solutions, both for their present and future operations. As a design-build general contractor, it’s our job to be well-versed in green construction options like solar energy and renewable materials so that when we present these new technologies, we know that we’re giving our customers the best possible choices. And not just for the planet, but for their pocket too!
Green building options can save you time, energy, and a whole lot of money. The initial cost may seem a bit steeper, but the money you’ll save on smaller bills, less maintenance, and potential tax benefits will more than make up for it.
It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re a tree hugger. The fact is: green buildings save money. According to the World Green Building Trends of 2021, new green buildings in the US see, on average, a 12.3% reduction in operation costs within the first year. Over the next five years, that number jumps to 17.9%. Not only that, but owners and investors of green buildings also reported a building asset value increase of 9%.
Sustainability is not a fad. It’s the future. The market for green construction solutions is growing at an exponential rate, and while the green decisions you make now may look like an expense, they’re really an investment in the future of your company.
At Nuway, we specialize in Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMB). That is because we know the benefits of pre-fabricated steel construction. Your building goes up faster and lasts longer. Prefabrication shortens construction time, and using steel as the primary building material in your construction project guarantees less maintenance and a longer life. Plus, steel is 100% recyclable.
We often partner with Nucor Building Systems, a steel manufacturer that not only produces steel, but also recycles up to 22 million tons of it each year. In fact, 70% of their building material has already been recycled.
And sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. You don’t have to be a completely carbon neutral company to reap the benefits of sustainability. Something as simple as using white roof panels instead of gray or black will reduce heat absorption and retention, thus reducing the need for energy-consuming cooling technologies like air conditioning by nearly 40%. That’s a lot of money saved!
One of the most popular sustainable solutions on the market today is solar energy systems. Over the last decade, the cost of solar panel installation has dropped over 60%. Not only that, but through programs like net metering, you can even make money by selling your excess energy.
Other routes, like geothermal heating systems, will also save you money in the long run. Not to mention, they’re quieter, require less space, and last longer than traditional HVAC systems.
When it comes to making green decisions, the possibilities are endless. Whether it’s a simple choice, like using bamboo flooring instead of wood, or a more complex initiative, like integrating self-powering technologies, it all makes a difference.
To recap: when you spend money on sustainable building solutions, you actually save money overall. You’re investing in your company’s future, ensuring the efficiency and longevity of the spaces it relies on.
