Modern Building Services

MODERN BUILDING SERVICES MAY 2021 17 FEATURE SMART BUILDINGS Security & Risk Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies have had a significant impact on improving campus security and safety. Combined with WiFi these technologies enable the likes of networked CCTV, digitalised LED lighting systems, and digital identification card readers. Another example of the potential to provide increased security and support on campus is seen in geofencing. Geofencing uses GPS and radio- frequency identification to create a virtual geographic boundary in which software can monitor and respond to mobile devices entering and leaving an area. Understanding the benefits of smart campuses is one thing; finding practical, affordable and sustainable ways of achieving smart-building conversion is another - particularly during a time of economic volatility. Where it is difficult for an organisation to justify prioritising capital investment, there is a temptation to do nothing. But every day that a building has not been converted to “smart” is a day in which money savings have been foregone, unnecessary natural resources have been consumed, and social benefits have not been delivered to students, visitors and employees. Tailored, all-encompassing financing packages tend to be offered by specialist financiers who have an in-depth understanding of energy-efficient technology and its applications. Specialist finance providers understand the importance of implementing new equipment and new technology to generate revenue and cut operational expenses, and can therefore provide customised financing solutions that deliver energy savings and lower expenses, for instance, flexing the financing period to suit cash flow. This contrasts with the standard financing terms usually available from generalist financiers. As UK universities prepare for a full reopening in a post- pandemic climate, discussions surrounding the future of campuses is more important now than ever. This article explores just a few examples of smart campus development. Such initiatives can help universities to reduce carbon emissions, keep pace with both evolving technology and current events, and make the overall user experience safer and more comfortable. The budget, however, has to be available to implement the system in the first place. Many universities are recognising the important role that the specialist private financing can play to help them fulfil their ‘smart’ ambitions and to respond to rapidly changing student and staff expectations. 1 The Telegraph, When will universities reopen in the UK? 1st June 2020: https://bit.ly/3egIHHi 2 Source: Siemens Building Technologies 3 Richard van Hooijdonk, ‘Smart campuses are the future of higher education’ Medium (13 August 2019) https://bit.ly/2RIDK26 4 Norma Lehman, ‘The Future of Higher Education: Smart Campuses’ Spaces4Learning (03 January 2019) https://bit.ly/3sDoGzu