1. The Role and Mechanism of NABERS
NABERS is a nationally recognised green building certification that uses a simple rating scheme (0–6 stars) to measure, understand, and communicate a building’s environmental performance, highlighting opportunities for cost savings and improvements. Ratings are calculated based on the consumption of electricity, gas, diesel, and water.
NABERS Core Principles and Value:
Trusted Benchmark: NABERS provides an independently verified benchmark for performance, supporting transparency for investors and tenants.
Continuous Improvement: Ratings are based on actual energy or water use over a full 12-month period, requiring annual reassessment to encourage ongoing accountability.
Data Validation: Performance is calculated from verified utility bills and is adjusted (normalised) for the number of occupants and operational hours to ensure fair comparison across different buildings.
Strategic Alignment: High ratings support sustainable finance (e.g., green loans) and align assets with national sustainability policies and net-zero pathways.
2. PEAK for Maximising NABERS Energy Efficiency
CIM's PEAK platform and operational services are key tools for implementing the strategies required to optimise energy performance and drive higher NABERS ratings.
PEAK Functionality | NABERS Strategy Alignment |
Real-Time Monitoring | PEAK monitors energy consumption in real time across portfolios, allowing clients to quickly identify and resolve system anomalies. This ensures plant and equipment perform efficiently and prevents energy wastage, directly supporting the core goal to "Track performance". |
Operational & Space Efficiency | CIM implements proactive maintenance, advanced controls, and smart operations to optimise systems like HVAC and lighting. Services also focus on maximising space efficiency, ensuring base building systems operate efficiently relative to actual use, thus reducing wasted energy. |
Renewable Electricity | CIM supports clients in committing to and securing 100% renewable electricity to reduce operational carbon footprint. This strategy is crucial for performing well under the new Renewable Energy Indicator. |
Electrification & CapEx | CIM advises on electrification strategies to transition away from gas infrastructure. This proactive planning reduces reliance on fossil fuels and is strongly encouraged, as the 2030 benchmark update will specifically boost ratings for all-electric assets. CIM also prioritises targeted capital upgrades (CapEx) that yield the most significant efficiency gains. |
3. PEAK for Maximising NABERS Water Efficiency
CIM and PEAK enable data-driven management to conserve potable water and improve the NABERS Water rating.
PEAK Functionality | NABERS Strategy Alignment |
Data-Driven Measurement & Monitoring | CIM facilitates the rollout of water submeters and integrates this data into PEAK to capture near real-time consumption. This detailed data allows for close monitoring and quick identification of unusual patterns, ensuring efficiency is maintained. |
Leak Detection and Repair | A key operational focus is on detecting and repairing leaks quickly, especially within tenant spaces, which maintains and improves overall water efficiency. |
Strategic Planning & Landscaping | CIM encourages Water Efficiency Management Plans (WEMPs) for regional assets, providing structured operational and capital measures to maintain performance under drought conditions. Additionally, the use of smart irrigation systems and drought-tolerant plantings reduces non-essential water consumption. |