The award validates the effectiveness of energy-efficiency initiatives in the retail sector.
 
Identifying and recognising buildings that have low energy consumption in relation to the size of the building, the award results were determined through an analysis and audit of the various entrants’ utility bills over a one-year period, as well as results specifically designed survey. 
 
Prior to the mall’s participation in the award process, Centurion Mall undertook a “green” initiative, which saw management and owners re-evaluate and redefine the malls carbon footprint. 
 
“The process involved analysing all operational levels and areas within the mall,” says Chris le Roux, Operations Manager at Centurion Mall. “The majority of lights were replaced with energy saving lights and a Building Monitoring System was installed for all the air conditioning units. Timers were also installed in various areas to manage the hours that the lights are working and all the geysers in the bathrooms were turned off. Power factor correction was also installed.”
 
Johann Fourie, General Manager of Centurion Mall, is positive that the award is a good indication that the mall is on the correct route in becoming as energy efficient as possible and incorporating a green approach into its long-term vision.
 
“Every kilowatt counts!” enthuses Fourie.
 
“We are proud to have been part of this valuable initiative and hope that this will grow to be one of the most highly recognised awards in the shopping centre industry,” notes Fourie. “We started with energy saving initiatives before we knew that any recognition would be given. The main driver behind this initiative was cost efficiency, in addition to protecting our precious environment and to improving our carbon footprint.”
 
Centurion Mall’s success at the awards is further fortified with the knowledge that the mall competed against 12 other centres, including strip malls which normally have lower energy consumption levels than covered malls.
 
Always eager to take on a challenge, Centurion Mall management team will strive to continue with this energy saving initiative, venturing to become an environmentally conscious leader within the retail industry.
 
Broll is a multi-disciplinary property services company with over 35 years experience in the property industry.  Its services include property, shopping centre, utilities and facilities management as well as sales, leasing, valuations, retail consultancy, corporate real estate advisory services, research and investment services to the retail, commercial, industrial and investment markets.
 
The Oriental Plaza was identified as the winner of the shopping centre category, and Cape Town’s Canal Walk scooped third place.

The Energy Barometer was co-founded and developed by Prof LJ Grobler from Energy Cybernetics, and is the product of five years of research and development.