67 must be digitally retrofitted, so that they can help to decarbonise energy demand and supply though digital and electric solutions. One example of a net-zero building of the future is Schneider Electric’s IntenCity in Grenoble, France. The intended return on investment of the project is around three years. In the meantime, the building will provide a safe and comfortable human experience for Schneider’s 5,000 employees. Historically, computer-aided design has been a game-changer for the construction industry, however, building information modeling (BIM) is the secret behind innovative and resilient construction projects today and in the future. It digitises all processes for a full view of the project life cycle – from conception to execution and maintenance. It improves collaboration, process efficiency and quality compliance, while reducing waste. It also has the potential to reduce life cycle emissions by 30 per cent. Today’s evolving BIM landscape is an increasingly key component in the transition to green construction. Electrical design software allows precise simulation for tailored electrical system design to fully support the energy transition of buildings. Simultaneously, 6D BIM software enables contractors, consultants and other users to compare and adjust cost, schedules and carbon emissions in real time when selecting materials and suppliers. iTWO costX by Schneider-owned RIB Software offers the industry a 6D BIM solution that integrates embodied carbon accounting with cost estimating. By combining this with Building Transparency’s EC3 technology, users can quantify, measure, report on and compare embodied carbon across the project life cycle, enabling better design and procurement decisions. Time is running out to halve emissions by the end of the decade. We need to change our mindset to benefit from the technologies available to us. By incorporating software across all stages of the construction life cycle of our cities, we can cut costs, reduce waste and create a positive difference for the environment. Olivier Blum is executive vice president of energy management, and Marc Nézet is senior vice president of software transformation for energy management, at Schneider Electric
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