By Thabang Byl, buildings segment lead at Schneider Electric
In modern air-conditioned buildings, energy efficiency is not just about cooling – it’s about the intelligent management of every system within a space. Philosopher Plato wisely said: “There is no harm in repeating a good thing.” This sentiment rings especially true for the ongoing push to retrofit buildings.
Reimagining buildings. Supplied by Schneider Electric
Transforming existing buildings is one of the most practical ways to improve energy efficiency, compliance, and long-term competitiveness. Retrofitting makes the most of the structures we already have, enhancing both comfort and sustainability.
For decades, buildings were designed without energy savings in mind; electricity was abundant and inexpensive, and conservation wasn’t a priority. Today, electricity is a precious resource, and conservation is non-negotiable – especially in air-conditioned spaces where energy demand is high.
Despite the clear benefits, retrofits are often dismissed as costly or complex. Many organisations assume that updating older buildings is unrealistic or prohibitively expensive. While this perception is gradually being debunked, it still presents a challenge.
The benefits are tangible
Retrofitted buildings deliver real returns: lower operating costs, improved sustainability performance, and enhanced comfort for occupants. According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), retrofitting older buildings is key to unlocking the full energy-saving potential of the sector. As the report states, “75% of the buildings that will be standing in 2050 already exist”.
Schneider Electric’s English-speaking Africa headquarters in Midrand, Gauteng, provides a practical example of these gains:
- 37% lower energy consumption per month
- 34% less water usage per month
- 32 tonnes of CO₂ emissions reduced monthly
Additionally, a 200kWp rooftop solar installation contributes another 15 tonnes of CO₂ reduction monthly, demonstrating how retrofits complement renewable energy initiatives.
