Introduction

In today's real estate market, a building's performance is measured by more than just its financial returns. Energy efficiency and sustainable operations have become essential for reducing operational costs, attracting premium tenants, and meeting the growing demands of environmentally conscious investors. This comprehensive training course provides a practical and strategic framework for implementing green building operations, equipping property managers and engineers with the knowledge to significantly reduce a property's environmental footprint and enhance its long-term value.

This program is designed for professionals who want to move beyond basic maintenance to a more holistic, sustainable approach. You will learn how to conduct energy audits, optimize building systems, and leverage smart technologies to drive efficiency and performance. By the end of this intensive course, you will possess a powerful skill set to develop and execute a green operations plan, position your properties as market leaders, and create tangible financial returns from sustainability initiatives.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Facilities managers
• Property managers
• Asset managers
• Building engineers
• Sustainability officers
• Real estate developers

Objectives

• To conduct a comprehensive energy audit and benchmarking.
• To implement strategies to significantly reduce energy and water consumption.
• To understand green building certifications and standards.
• To leverage technology for sustainable operations.
• To develop a plan for a green building retrofit.
• To create a sustainable operational plan that drives asset value.

Course Modules

Module 1: The Business Case for Green Buildings

• The economic, social, and environmental benefits of green operations.
• The link between energy efficiency and increased asset value.
• Understanding global trends and regulations in sustainability.
• The role of building operations in achieving sustainability goals.
• The impact of green operations on tenant health and productivity.

Module 2: Energy Auditing and Benchmarking

• The process of conducting a Level 1, 2, or 3 energy audit.
• Identifying key energy consumption drivers in a building.
• Using benchmarking tools like ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager.
• Analyzing utility bills and historical data.
• Setting clear baselines for measuring improvement.

Module 3: HVAC and Lighting System Optimization

• Strategies for optimizing Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.
• Upgrading to high-efficiency lighting systems (LEDs).
• Implementing smart lighting controls and daylight harvesting.
• The importance of regular HVAC maintenance and retro-commissioning.
• Advanced controls and sensors for a building management system (BMS).

Module 4: Building Envelope and Water Management

• The role of the building envelope in energy efficiency.
• Best practices for insulation, windows, and roofing.
• Strategies for water conservation and efficiency.
• Implementing low-flow fixtures and water-efficient landscaping.
• Developing a rainwater harvesting or graywater recycling system.

Module 5: Green Building Certifications

• An overview of major certifications: LEED, BREEAM, and WELL.
• The operational requirements for maintaining a certified building.
• The value of certification in the market.
• The application and documentation process for a certification.
• Case studies of certified buildings and their performance.

Module 6: Waste Management and Recycling

• Developing a comprehensive waste reduction and recycling program.
• The principles of the circular economy in building operations.
• Strategies for managing e-waste, construction waste, and hazardous materials.
• The role of tenant and occupant engagement in recycling programs.
• The financial and environmental benefits of waste diversion.

Module 7: Sustainable Procurement and Supply Chain

• Creating a sustainable procurement policy for goods and services.
• Partnering with green vendors and suppliers.
• The lifecycle analysis of building materials and products.
• Managing the environmental and social impact of your supply chain.
• Negotiating green contracts with service providers.

Module 8: Technology for Green Operations

• Utilizing Building Management Systems (BMS) for real-time monitoring.
• The role of the Internet of Things (IoT) in energy management.
• Leveraging data analytics to optimize building performance.
• Exploring smart grid technologies and demand-side management.
• The future of PropTech in sustainable operations.

Module 9: Creating a Green Operations Plan

• Conducting a comprehensive green building assessment.
• Setting clear, measurable, and achievable sustainability goals.
• Developing a phased implementation plan for a green retrofit.
• Communicating the plan and engaging with stakeholders.
• Measuring and reporting on green building performance over time.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.