Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in Commercial and Institutional Buildings: A Complete Analysis
Authors: Anarene Bengold 
Published: September 2024

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of commercial and institutional buildings consume a large proportion of the energy used worldwide and, as a result, are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and operational expenses. According to Wang et al. (2021), HVAC systems in commercial buildings account for approximately 40% of total energy consumption, making them a key focus in efforts to reduce energy use and emissions. As climate change and energy resource depletion intensify, increasing the energy efficiency of these buildings is viewed as a sustainable development solution. Improving building energy efficiency is considered one of the most effective strategies to mitigate global energy consumption and carbon footprints (Pérez-Lombard et al., 2008).
This critical review re-anchors the current research, strategies, and case studies toward improving energy efficiency in existing commercial and institutional buildings, providing insights on which approaches work best, the challenges of implementation, and ways forward to guide future research and practice. The paper starts by outlining an overall view of the use of energy in commercial and institutional buildings and identifies the key energy-using systems, which include HVAC, lighting, and the building envelope (Mendell et al., 2017).
Technological enhancements scientifically proven to reduce energy consumption include efficient HVAC systems, lighting systems, and advancements in insulation and window technologies (Kim et al., 2019). In addition, the utilization of renewable energy within existing building structures—such as solar and wind energy—is explored as a complementary option for reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources (Hossain et al., 2020).
Beyond technological improvements, behavioral change and policy measures play a critical role in improving energy efficiency. Studies have shown that occupant behavior significantly affects energy consumption, and energy management practices, coupled with incentives, can lead to measurable efficiency gains (Delzendeh et al., 2017). Energy performance standards and governmental incentives are essential in fostering greater efficiency in building systems (Ürge-Vorsatz et al., 2012).
The review also addresses the challenges of retrofitting, particularly the high initial costs, operational disruptions, and legal constraints involved in upgrading existing buildings. These barriers, particularly in terms of cost and logistics, are critical to overcome if retrofitting is to be widely adopted (Ma et al., 2012). Case studies such as the Empire State Building's retrofitting project, which resulted in a projected 38% energy savings, and Harvard University's energy efficiency initiatives, demonstrate the real-world feasibility of significant energy reductions (Guldmann et al., 2020).
It is particularly relevant to stress here that more innovation is required in the sphere of energy-efficient technologies, backed by stronger policy support, education, and collaboration among stakeholders. As noted by Sartori et al. (2012), the collaboration between governments, industry, and academia is essential to address the global challenge of increasing the energy efficiency of buildings and reducing energy consumption in response to climate change.