Project Profile

Energy Efficiency Challenge

Located in the heart of Collingwood, Gipps Cromwell Quarter (GCQ) is a landmark development delivering 9,000m² of A-Grade collaborative office space across 11 levels. In a market where fewer than one-third of offices are classified as A-Grade, GCQ set a clear ambition: to create a future-focused, healthy workplace with exceptional energy performance and occupant comfort.

The challenge was to integrate two existing BMS systems, deliver real-time energy insights, and optimise HVAC performance—all during full occupancy and with no historical operational baseline due to the building’s recent activation.

Innovative Solutions

Working collaboratively with AE Smith, SCSA developed and delivered a phased optimisation program to meet GCQ’s performance and sustainability goals:

• Analytics Platform Implementation – Real-time data monitoring to track utility usage and system behaviour.
• Integrated Building Controls – Merged two independent BMS platforms into a centralised, fully responsive control system.
• Upgraded Control Strategies – HVAC controls were optimised to match building demand and reduce energy waste.

The entire project was delivered in under 12 weeks, with no disruption to tenants.

SCSA’s Contribution

SCSA partnered with GCQ to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that aligned with the building’s commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and occupant well-being.

Key services included:

• Advisory: Strategic insights to align building systems with GCQ’s vision for a healthy, future-ready workplace.
• Building Automation Solutions: Installed advanced sensors and controls to optimise building performance.
• Energy Management: Real-time monitoring and analytics to reduce energy use and operating costs.
• Building Optimisation: Data-driven recommendations and implementations to improve energy performance and asset longevity.
• Service and Support: Ongoing maintenance and system tuning to ensure long-term efficiency and reliability.

Key Achievements and Results

• 1% reduction in electricity consumption
• 9% reduction in gas usage
• 84 tonnes CO₂e emissions avoided – equivalent to removing 18+ cars from the road
• 38% improvement in occupant thermal comfort
• Projected uplift in NABERS rating from 4.5 to 5.1 Stars
• $24,500 annual savings with a 2.6-year return on investment
• Project completed in under 12 weeks with minimal disruptions to day-to-day operations

Partnerships and Collaborations

GCQ’s success is a testament to strong partnerships. Led by AE Smith with SCSA as the trusted controls specialist, the project was delivered through close collaboration with Knight Frank and RF Corval. Overcoming complex system integrations and live environment constraints, the team delivered a solution that exceeded energy and comfort expectations.

Gipps Cromwell Quarter sets a new benchmark for smart, sustainable buildings in Collingwood—combining innovation, data, and design to create workplaces of the future.