Smart Building Blog

Traditional building automation systems have been both costly and complex for the majority of commercial building owners and property managers, accounting for the fact that less than 15% of buildings have a BAS.  Misconceptions about cost often prevent the adoption of smart and sustainable buildings. 

When budgeting for a building automation system, it's important to consider both the capital expense (CapEx) or Total Cost of Acquisition (TCA) -  the initial cost for hardware, software and installation/services - as well as the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which is the ongoing cost to use, upgrade and operate and maintain (O+M) the system.

Newer technologies, like IoT sensors, wireless controls, and cloud computing, are helping lower the cost of building automation systems and making them more affordable and accessible to the majority of buildings that lack smart technology. Still, we know the allocating the upfront capital budget can be a challenge. Luckily, there are a variety of incentive programs on both federal and state levels, plus those from utilities and energy program partners, to make it easier on your wallet to go green.

In this post, we focus on TCA and related incentives that you might be able to leverage to lower your costs to install a smart building automation system. Here, we give you the low-down.

This year was 75F's first trip to the League of Minnesota Cities Conference. And, the City of Saint Cloud and the League of Minnesota Cities did not disappoint! Attendees were excited, exhibitors were at the ready with impressive booth displays, and the decor sent you up north with a cozy, cabin feel. What else could you ask for from a Minnesota-centric conference?!

As the conference began, attendees settled in with a pre-conference workshop and dove right into the juicy (lucy) training all had traveled far and wide to attend. The 75F team began with the City Sustainability Meet-Up in the Alexander Room. 

As budgets continue to get smaller and the push for energy efficiency continues to grow, many building managers and owners are trying to find new ways to cut operating expenses and run a more efficient building. Thankfully, with the introduction of the Internet of Things (IoT), you don't have to look too far to find new ways to achieve both of these goals. In fact, 75F's solutions can actually help you cut your HVAC energy costs by 30-50% and get a return on your investment in as little as a year, all while improving operational efficiencies and creating an optimal occupant experience!

Here's how you can do it!

From media tours and press coverage to tradeshows and awards, 2016 has been one incredible year! Sales are up 500%, our driven team has grown by 16 people globally and we are as determined as ever to trailblaze building automation with our energy saving solution! As part of the United Nations Environment Program- Sustainable Buildings Climate Initiative, we are here to improve comfort, while reducing our carbon footprint.