How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits

Reading Time: 12 minutes
Key Takeaway: EPC gives building owners a structured, low-risk way to upgrade old systems, cut energy bills, and achieve deep energy retrofits with guaranteed results.

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Introduction (PAS Framework, ~120 words)

Many building owners want to reduce energy costs but feel overwhelmed when they think about upgrading old systems. The process seems expensive, complicated, and risky. That’s the problem.

The agitation begins when you realise that shallow upgrades—like changing lights or adding timers—barely scratch the surface. You want real savings, not small improvements that disappear in a year.

This is where EPC comes in. In this article, “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits,” we’ll show you how the EPC model (Energy Performance Contracting) gives you a clear plan, guaranteed savings, and a trusted partner to manage the entire journey from start to finish. No technical jargon, no confusion—just a practical blueprint for deep energy transformation.

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Summary Box

Title: How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits
What You’ll Learn:

• What deep energy retrofits really mean

• How EPC ensures guaranteed savings and lower risk

• Why EPC is the best model for old or inefficient buildings

• What technologies can be included in a deep retrofit

• How EPC helps you modernise without upfront financial burden

• How to choose the right ESCO for a deep energy retrofit project

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Main Section (Eighth-Grade Reading Level, Approx. 2400 Words)

Deep energy retrofits are one of the most powerful ways for building owners to cut energy waste and improve comfort inside the building. These retrofits go beyond simple changes or quick fixes. They involve improving major systems such as HVAC, lighting, controls, motors, insulation, and sometimes even the building envelope. Many building owners want to do this but are unsure how to plan, execute, or finance such a large project.

This is why it is important to understand “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits.” EPC, or Energy Performance Contracting, is a model where an ESCO (Energy Service Company) upgrades your building and guarantees that you will save energy. The ESCO takes responsibility for the design, installation, performance, and long-term maintenance. If the energy savings fall short, the ESCO must pay the difference. This gives building owners confidence and reduces risk, especially for large and complex retrofits.

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Section 1: What Are Deep Energy Retrofits?

Before diving into “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits,” let’s understand what a deep retrofit actually means.

A deep energy retrofit is an upgrade that reduces your building’s energy use by at least 30% to 50%. In some cases, the savings can go beyond 60% depending on the building type, age, and equipment condition. Deep retrofits involve changing multiple systems, not just one.

Deep retrofits typically include:

• Upgrading HVAC chillers and boilers

• Installing high-efficiency lighting and controls

• Adding building automation systems

• Improving insulation and air sealing

• Replacing pumps and motors with efficient models

• Using variable speed drives

• Improving ventilation systems

• Adding renewable energy like solar PV

• Modifying building operations to reduce waste

Deep retrofits are different from shallow retrofits, which usually focus on simple actions like replacing light bulbs or adding timers. Shallow retrofits give small savings that do not last long. Deep retrofits, on the other hand, create long-term energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and better building performance.

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Section 2: Why Deep Retrofits Are Important

Understanding “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits” starts with recognising why deep retrofits matter.

Deep retrofits offer benefits such as:

• Lower energy bills

• Better indoor comfort

• Improved air quality

• Modernised building systems

• Reduced maintenance costs

• Longer equipment lifespan

• Lower carbon footprint

• Stronger compliance with ESG and green building requirements

Many companies also use deep retrofits to strengthen their sustainability reporting and meet government regulations. In Malaysia, programmes such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and various state-level carbon initiatives encourage building owners to reduce energy waste. Deep retrofits can help owners meet these new expectations and avoid penalties in the future.

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Section 3: The Challenges of Deep Retrofits

Deep retrofits offer many benefits, but they also come with challenges. This is why building owners often look for structured models like EPC.

Some common challenges include:

• High upfront cost

• Complex project planning

• Multiple systems to evaluate

• Coordination between different contractors

• Hard-to-predict savings

• Long project timelines

• Risk of equipment failure

• Uncertainty in choosing the right technology

These challenges make deep retrofits risky for owners, especially if they do not have full technical knowledge. But EPC solves many of these challenges.

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Section 4: How EPC Works

To understand “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits,” we must look at how EPC works in simple terms.

EPC is based on a simple principle:

The ESCO upgrades your building and guarantees energy savings.

If the savings do not meet the agreed amount, the ESCO pays the difference. This puts responsibility on the ESCO—not the building owner.

How EPC normally works:

1. Energy audit – The ESCO studies how your building uses energy.

2. Proposal – The ESCO recommends upgrades and shows estimated savings.

3. Contract signing – The ESCO guarantees those savings.

4. Project execution – The ESCO installs new systems and equipment.

5. Commissioning – The ESCO tests everything to make sure it works properly.

6. Monitoring – The ESCO tracks monthly savings and submits reports.

7. Savings guarantee – If actual savings are lower, the ESCO compensates the difference.

This structure protects the building owner from financial risks and poor performance.

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Section 5: How EPC Enables Deep Energy Retrofits

Now let’s look specifically at “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits.” EPC is one of the best models for deep retrofits because it offers both financial and technical advantages.

1. EPC allows large retrofits without upfront capital

With EPC, the ESCO can arrange third-party financing. This means the building owner does not need to pay the full investment upfront. Instead, the energy savings will help pay for the project over time.

2. EPC provides guaranteed results

Deep retrofits involve high costs and complex systems. With an EPC contract, the ESCO guarantees a specific level of savings. This reduces uncertainty.

3. EPC gives you a single point of responsibility

Instead of managing several contractors, the ESCO becomes responsible for the entire project. This improves quality control and reduces confusion.

4. EPC ensures long-term system performance

Because the ESCO is responsible for achieving savings, they will:

• Choose reliable equipment

• Design proper control systems

• Conduct thorough commissioning

• Maintain the system properly

5. EPC includes ongoing monitoring

Performance tracking ensures the building continues to save energy for many years.

6. EPC encourages deep—not shallow—solutions

Since ESCOs only profit from real savings, they are motivated to design strong, long-lasting solutions instead of quick fixes.

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Section 6: What Technologies Are Used in EPC-Based Deep Retrofits?

Understanding “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits” also means understanding the types of technologies that ESCOs use.

Common technologies include:

• High-efficiency chillers

• Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems

• LED lighting systems

• Occupancy sensors

• Smart thermostats

• Building Management Systems (BMS)

• Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV)

• Advanced pumps and motors

• Solar photovoltaic systems

• Thermal insulation and sealing

• High-performance windows

• Variable speed drives

• Demand control ventilation

Each building will require a customised combination based on its size, usage patterns, and energy goals.

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Section 7: Financial Benefits of EPC for Deep Retrofits

One of the biggest reasons building owners choose EPC is the financial advantage. Deep retrofits can cost millions of ringgit, depending on the building. But EPC helps reduce financial pressure.

Financial benefits include:

• Little or no upfront cost

• Guaranteed return on investment

• Predictable monthly payments

• Lower energy bills from day one

• Reduced OPEX

• Improved asset value

• Lower risks of technical failure

ESCOs may work with banks to provide financing. This allows building owners to start retrofits even with budget constraints.

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Section 8: Operational and Comfort Benefits

Deep retrofits under EPC not only reduce energy use but also improve how your building feels and operates.

Benefits include:

• Better cooling performance

• More stable indoor temperature

• Improved air quality

• Reduced humidity issues

• Lower noise levels

• Fewer breakdowns

• Faster maintenance response

• Modern technology that is easier to control

This leads to a better experience for tenants, shoppers, employees, or guests.

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Section 9: Risks That EPC Helps You Avoid

Understanding “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits” also means understanding the risks EPC helps prevent.

Risks avoided:

• Oversized or undersized equipment

• Inflated energy savings estimates

• Poor installation quality

• Wrong equipment selection

• Operational disruptions

• Lack of monitoring

• Short-term fixes that fail quickly

The ESCO assumes responsibility for most of these risks.

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Section 10: How to Choose the Right ESCO

Not all ESCOs deliver the same quality. Here are tips to choose the right partner.

Look for:

• Proven experience

• Strong technical team

• Transparent savings calculations

• Independent verification

• Good after-sales support

• Clear communication

• Strong track record of deep retrofits

• Ability to explain things simply

A good ESCO will prioritise your building’s long-term performance—not just short-term gains.

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Section 11: Why EPC Is the Future of Building Retrofits

Governments and businesses worldwide are focusing on carbon reduction and rising energy prices. This makes deep energy retrofits more important than ever. EPC helps accelerate these improvements by removing financial barriers and guaranteeing performance.

EPC supports future trends such as:

• Green building certification (GBI, MyCREST)

• ESG reporting

• Net-zero goals

• National Energy Transition Roadmap

• Carbon tax readiness

This makes EPC a strategic choice for forward-thinking building owners.

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Conclusion + Call to Action

Deep retrofits can transform a building’s energy performance, comfort, and long-term value. But they require careful planning, strong technical knowledge, and reliable execution. That’s why the EPC model is one of the best ways to achieve these results. By understanding “How EPC Can Help You Achieve Deep Energy Retrofits,” you now see how EPC reduces risk, improves savings, and ensures high-quality upgrades without heavy upfront investment.

If you’re ready to modernise your building and achieve deep, guaranteed energy savings, WhatsApp or call 0133006284 today. The right EPC partner can turn your building into a high-performance, energy-efficient asset—starting now.