Entry Details

Organization:Adeeb Group
Login ID:adeebgroup
Category applied for:ESCO OF THE YEAR
Submission date:28-Oct-2024
Submission Entry:
1.) What systemic transformation are you able to report as an ESCO?
  1. Whilst ESCO projects typically involve achieving greater energy efficiency and water-use optimisation, what have you done to ensure better IEQ, either as a collateral or direct benefit?
  2. Have you evolved a way of showing fiscal benefits of better IEQ, which in turn, has allowed you to stay true to the ESCO model of making money through savings achieved, and the like, in the case of better IEQ?
  3. Have you established or strengthened your company policy towards addressing the bigger picture (of helping in the effort to limiting global rise in temperature or improvement in IEQ, etc.) and working in an interconnected manner with other stakeholders?
(188)

Answer: In ESCO (Energy Service Company) initiatives, the main objective is to enhance energy efficiency and optimize water usage. However, improving indoor environmental quality (IEQ) can also be viewed as a valuable additional benefit.

To boost IEQ in ESCO projects, several strategies can be implemented:

HVAC System Upgrades: Retrofitting heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with energy-efficient components, such as advanced filters, UV light systems, and modern ventilators, can enhance indoor air quality while lowering energy use.

Indoor Air Quality Assessments: Regular testing of indoor air quality is essential to identify and resolve potential issues. This includes checking for pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide, and mold.

Enhancements to Building Envelope: Upgrading the building envelope through improved insulation, air sealing, and advanced window glazing can minimize outside air infiltration and promote better indoor air quality.

Smart Control Systems: Utilizing smart technology, such as occupancy and temperature/humidity sensors, can optimize the indoor environment by maintaining ideal conditions for temperature, humidity, and ventilation.

Green and Biophilic Design: Integrating green and biophilic elements, such as green roofs, indoor gardens, and ample natural light, can improve indoor air quality and enhance overall occupant well-being.

By implementing these strategies, ESCO projects can significantly enhance indoor environmental quality. These improvements not only create a more comfortable and productive environment but also offer health benefits for those who occupy the space.

In the ESCO (Energy Service Company) model, the emphasis is on realizing energy and cost savings through efficiency improvements. However, by factoring in the financial gains linked to better indoor environmental quality (IEQ), ESCOs can illustrate how investments in improved IEQ lead to overall savings and enhanced financial results for both building owners and occupants. This can be evidenced by assessing elements such as increased productivity, lower absenteeism due to illness, and possible energy savings stemming from improved IEQ.

While there might not be explicit guidelines on how ESCO models incorporate the financial benefits of enhanced IEQ, research underscores the economic advantages that come with better IEQ. These benefits can be integrated into the ESCO framework to highlight the financial gains achieved through such improvements.


2.) Given that buildings consume 40% of global energy, within which at least 40% is consumed by HVAC systems, how has the goal of 1.5 C additionally impacted your project opportunities? What specific design or equipment/ controls selection retrofits have you incorporated in your projects in order to support the 1.5 goal? (189)

Answer: The target of capping global warming at 1.5°C has notably influenced opportunities within the building sector, particularly for HVAC projects. In response, project retrofits now include specific design choices and equipment/control upgrades tailored to meet this climate goal. To cut HVAC energy consumption and support the 1.5°C target, several strategies have been adopted, such as: High-efficiency equipment: Selecting advanced HVAC equipment like variable-speed drives, energy-efficient chillers, and heat pumps helps lower energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Building envelope upgrades: Enhancing insulation, air sealing, and window glazing in building envelopes significantly reduces HVAC heating and cooling loads. Demand-controlled ventilation: This system optimizes airflow based on real-time occupancy and ventilation needs, balancing energy use with indoor air quality. Smart controls and automation: Integrating smart technology enables precise and efficient HVAC control, reducing waste and boosting energy efficiency. Renewable energy integration: Leveraging renewable sources like solar and geothermal energy for HVAC


3.) What is your ESG and energy-efficiency policy as an ESCO? (190)

Answer: ESCOs generally emphasize energy efficiency and sustainability in their projects, often implementing ESG and energy-efficiency policies that incorporate these core elements: Environmental Responsibility: ESCOs focus on reducing energy use, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing environmental impact. Their energy-saving solutions are designed to lower the environmental footprint of buildings and operational processes. Social Impact: ESCOs take into account the social aspects of their projects, aiming to improve indoor environmental quality, enhance occupant comfort and well-being, and foster healthier, more sustainable built environments. Energy Efficiency: Central to ESCOs' operations is the drive to boost energy efficiency in buildings and facilities. This may involve energy audits, equipment retrofits, system upgrades, and the introduction of energy management solutions to curb energy use and reduce operating costs. Renewable Energy Integration: ESCOs often integrate renewable energy sources, like solar panels or wind turbines, in their projects. By doing so, they encourage the shift to clean


4.) In the past one year, how many of the ESCO projects you have worked on, have secured a Green Building certification? And under which rating systems and at what levels of certification? Please highlight also the carbon emission reductions achieved on these projects. (191)

Answer: Khalifa university- Development of A Smart System for Monitoring & Control of Air Conditioning Adeeb group has delivered a system aimed at enabling efficient and optimized HVAC operations. This smart control system will minimize the need for manual operator interventions by automating operations according to predefined demand control comfort settings, ensuring energy efficiency. We have implemented the same by using no cables & deployed a wireless solution. By removing 1 meter of copper control cable, about 0.2–0.4 kg CO₂e could be saved . by implementing a wireless solution we have saved approximately 2000 kg CO₂e. Indoor air quality monitoring sensors are also implemented as part of the project which help in providing an improved health lifestyle. IAQ sensors continuously monitor levels of CO₂, humidity and other pollutants. This data enables HVAC systems to adjust ventilation based on actual occupancy and air quality needs rather than operating at a constant rate


5.) Please describe your corporate policies for employee motivation and retention - in terms of rewards, etc.? And what is your retention profile? Clients often insist on specific CVs of the service provider’s team to work on a project. Are you facing this issue as a norm, or are you able to assign a team of your choosing, quality-wise, to a project? Does employee-churn have an impact on satisfying clients’ expectations? (192)

Answer: To enhance employee retention, Adeeb group implemented a variety of strategies focused on fostering job satisfaction. These include effective onboarding and orientation processes, robust mentorship programs, and competitive employee compensation packages complemented by attractive perks and wellness offerings. Open communication channels and continuous performance feedback are essential, along with training and development opportunities that encourage professional growth. Recognition and reward systems play a crucial role in acknowledging employees' contributions, Effective change management and an emphasis on teamwork foster a collaborative atmosphere, while acknowledging both big and small milestones contributes to a sense of achievement. By regularly reevaluating these strategies and staying aligned with market standards for salary and benefits, Adeeb group creates positive workplace culture and strengthen employee relations.


6.) What management strategies and guidelines have you established to counter payment delays and other such instances, which are affecting your cashflow as an ESCO, and are preventing an ideal building construction eco-system (involving all stakeholders) from forming? What creative strategies are you utilising to circumvent/overcome cash flow challenges? (193)

Answer: To manage payment delays and cash flow challenges in the FM industry, these strategies can help: Clear Contracts: Specify payment terms, deadlines, and penalties. Credit Policies: Set credit terms based on clients' creditworthiness. Efficient Invoicing: Send prompt, accurate invoices with full payment details. Reminders and Incentives: Use automated reminders and offer discounts for early payments. Late Payment Penalties: Enforce penalties for delayed payments as per contract. Escalation Protocol: Implement a tiered escalation process, escalating as delays continue. Cash Flow Forecasting: Regularly forecast to anticipate shortages. Client Diversification: Reduce risk by diversifying your client base. Supplier Negotiations: Align payment terms with cash flow needs. Working Capital Optimization: Improve collections, manage inventory, and extend supplier terms. Invoice Factoring: Consider financing for faster access to unpaid invoice cash. Open Communication: Maintain proactive communication to resolve payment issues. Legal and CRM Support: Ensure contract robustness, and track payments and relationships through CRM.


7.) How can digitalisation ensure transparency, ensuring timely receivables? What other mechanisms would you recommend to ensure you receive monies owed you? (194)

Answer: Digitalization enhances transparency in the accounts receivable process by providing real-time visibility into transactions and payment statuses. Automated invoicing systems can ensure that bills are sent promptly, while digital platforms enable clients to track their payments and due dates. This fosters accountability and encourages timely payments.

Additionally, integrating data analytics can help identify late payments and assess customer credit risk, allowing for proactive follow-ups. Implementing a centralized customer relationship management (CRM) system facilitates communication, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned on payment terms.

To further ensure timely receivables, establishing clear payment terms upfront and utilizing electronic payment methods, which simplify transactions. Offering early payment discounts can incentivize clients to settle their invoices sooner. Lastly, consistent follow-ups and reminders via automated systems can keep payment schedules on track, enhancing the likelihood of timely collections.


8.) Have you incorporated changes to organisational culture and behaviour that enable a sustainable development approach? Specifically, what measures do you have in place to ensure ethical procurement practices across the entire chain of command and decision-making in your organisation? (195)

Answer: Adeeb Group Initiatives on Environmental impact:
Adeeb Group, a prominent fixture in the UAE market for over three decades, is at the forefront of the nation's drive towards sustainability. Embracing the UAE's ambitious targets for environmental preservation, Adeeb Group has integrated sustainability into its core business practices, exemplifying a commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.
As part of our Adeeb group’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, recently a new policy has been introduced to phase out the use of paper cups and plastic at offices and site offices. With this new initiative, the procurement of paper cups and single-use plastic products shall be ceased. Also, Adeeb group in the process of procuring and implementing cups/mugs and glassware for common use for all employees effective from 10th of August 2024.
The environmental impact of disposable paper cups is considerable, contributes to deforestation, water pollution, and increased landfill waste. As a responsible organization, Adeeb group has taken decisive action to minimize our ecological footprint.
The implementation of this policy is a vital step towards our goal of creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious workplace.


Supporting documents:none
References:CCAUAE2423 || post@adeebgroup.com

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