Nordea: Successful and easy way for property owners to improve their energy efficiency class

For institutions and funds to invest, it is likely that properties will need to have energy efficiency class A or B. Property owners with F and G rated buildings will need to demonstrate an energy efficiency plan to secure future funding. There are many buildings in need of modernisation – and time is short.

How will property owners manage to improve their buildings by 2030? IV Produkt and Nordea, one of the largest banks in Sweden, agree on a value-creating part of the solution.

Replacing older units improves the energy efficiency class – and profitability

IV Produkt welcomed Nordea to its headquarters in Växjö to discuss the profitability of replacing older air handling units. Replacement often leads to energy savings of 50–70 kWh/m² per year – while the investment pays for itself in just 3 to 6 years. In addition to lower energy costs and a higher property value, replacing a unit can improve the building’s energy efficiency class, resulting in more favourable loan terms.

“It’s impressive how much you can save by replacing older air handling units. It’s an incredibly effective and profitable measure for energy efficiency,” says Niklas Rydberg, Sustainability Manager at Nordea. IV Produkt has been involved in several projects where properties have climbed one or more energy efficiency classes by replacing air handling units.

“It’s a very profitable investment,” says Mattias Sjöberg, CEO of IV Produkt. The replacement process can often be completed in one week, and the result is a significant reduction in energy use, a higher property value and an improved energy efficiency class – sometimes by several levels. Moreover, the investment often pays for itself in just 3 to 6 years. Replacing units creates more opportunities for property owners to meet the new national and EU requirements.

Raising awareness is crucial

Nordea is in regular contact with its customers and emphasises the importance of understanding the new rules.

“It’s crucial for commercial property owners to familiarise themselves with the EPBD. Larger companies are often more active in making their operations more energy efficient with a focus on profitability. Smaller property owners need to follow the same path,” says Niklas Rydberg.

“Interest in energy performance certificates has increased significantly. We want to reach out to small and medium-sized property owners, so that they can make informed and profitable decisions in good time,” says Mari Leo, Senior Relationship Manager at Nordea.

Investment calculations strengthen financing decisions

IV Produkt offers investment calculations that clearly show the energy savings, ROI period and increase in property value following the replacement of AHUs. Nordea underscored the importance of clear calculations when making financing decisions – and they were impressed by IV Produkt’s tools for visualising the potential.

“IV Produkt’s investment calculations, together with an improved energy efficiency class, are a strong basis for financing. It can also lead to lower interest rates on the loan,” says Mari Leo.

A golden opportunity to act

Sustainability is high on the agenda, and a good indoor climate is an important factor when tenants choose premises. Environmental requirements and profitability continue to drive sustainable investments. Björn Fredriksson, Sales Manager at IV Produkt, considers that the time to invest is now.

“For property owners looking to make their buildings more energy efficient, this is a perfect opportunity. There are both resources and capacity in the construction sector right now. Anyone who waits risks ending up in a difficult situation,” concludes Björn.