How to Cut Energy & CO₂ by 22% with Schneider Smart Tech

Smart building technology is making waves across the commercial sector, elevating sustainability and energy efficiency to new heights.

Schneider Electric’s research reveals that office spaces equipped with occupancy-based controls can see a dramatic reduction in energy use and associated carbon emissions.

This innovative approach offers a cost-effective solution for businesses aiming to achieve sustainability targets without the need for major structural changes to their facilities.

Cutting energy use and carbon emissions

Findings from Schneider Electric underscore the significant benefits of introducing occupancy-based controls in office spaces.

The study conducted at 150 Holborn in London shows that meeting rooms with smart energy conservation measures (ECMs) enjoy a 22% drop in operational energy consumption and carbon outputs.

Announced in a white paper at MIPIM 2025, this research presents a strong argument for organizations keen on boosting energy efficiency without comprehensive building retrofits.

With Schneider Electric's advanced systems in place, offices remain energy-efficient 76% of the time during operating hours through occupancy setbacks.

These smart controls automatically adjust HVAC, lighting and plug loads according to real-time room usage — slashing unnecessary energy expenditures.

Jean-Marc Zola, Building Segments President at Schneider Electric, explains: “This study is compelling and demonstrates how simple, smart adjustments to room settings can have a measurable impact on energy efficiency and carbon, without compromising comfort or air quality.” 

A sustainable office space

The trials were conducted at 150 Holborn, an 18,500m², nine-story smart office building, located in the heart of London.

This building is designed not only for maximum energy efficiency but also for excellent occupant well-being.

Key technologies include Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Building Advisor, IoT-enabled EcoStruxure Connected Room Solutions and Planon’s Integrated Workplace Management System.

By zeroing in on meeting rooms, the study provides findings applicable to a broad spectrum of office spaces.

Occupancy-based setbacks help reduce energy demand by adjusting temperature setpoints and curbing HVAC usage when rooms are unoccupied.

Moreover, even on days with fewer people in the building, these spaces at 150 Holborn consistently maintain a 22% reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Importantly, these energy savings are achieved without sacrificing indoor air quality — CO₂ levels, relative humidity and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) all remain within the optimal range for human comfort and health.

“Everyone has a role to play in our journey towards net zero and businesses of all sizes are under pressure to decarbonise their operations," says David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President, Transactional Businesses, UK&I. 

“We are looking for partners who understand the evolving energy landscape and are committed to delivering innovative solutions to drive energy efficiency and decarbonisation for their customers.” 

Scalable solutions for smarter offices

Although this study was conducted in a high-tech smart building, the insights it provides are adaptable to a wide array of commercial properties.

Any office equipped with a modern Building Management System (BMS) and occupancy detection sensors can replicate these benefits.

The financial upsides are significant too.

Schneider Electric's analysis estimates a modest two-year payback period for implementing these ECMs.

The potential for even greater savings expands when broader HVAC energy efficiencies are factored in.

As companies increasingly strive to meet stringent sustainability goals, implementing smart technologies such as these offers a viable, impactful path towards reducing energy outlays and lowering greenhouse gas emissions — transforming modern office environments into more effective and ecology-conscious spaces.

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