The Utility Room

19 - Every Sustainability Report is a Precious Snowflake of Goodness

Exploring Sustainability and Innovation in Real Estate with Chris Pyke https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispyke/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispyke/]. Discover how data-driven strategies, sector-specific metrics, and global leadership are transforming the way we approach sustainability in real estate. Join Mary Nitschke https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-nitschke/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-nitschke/] as she interviews Chris Pyke, a leading environmental scientist and Chief Innovation Officer at GRESB, to uncover insights on energy efficiency, performance measurement, and the future of green building standards. Main Topics - The value and challenges of utility visibility in multifamily housing - GRESB’s standards: evolving metrics for real estate sustainability - The road to performance and measurement-based benchmarks - Sector-specific adaptations: tailored metrics for multifamily and other asset classes - Understanding and navigating the complexities of net zero Global leadership and innovative practices in sustainability from Canada and Australia - How institutional investor strategies drive real estate decarbonization This episode is brought to you by Public Grid https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/]. Public Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden. We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort. The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties. Learn more: https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroom [https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroom] Timestamps: 00:41 - The importance of utility visibility in multifamily buildings 01:20 - Introduction to Chris Pyke, sustainability expert and innovation leader 03:08 - Chris’s origin story and passion for environmental science and real estate 04:15 - How land use decisions influence urban growth and sustainability 05:07 - Chris’s experience with real estate operations and building management 06:15 - The leverage of capital markets and investor-driven change in sustainability 07:41 - GRESB's role in standardizing sustainability metrics globally 09:17 - The purpose of GRESB’s ratings and the language of sustainability scores 10:17 - The risk of traditional sustainability reports and the shift toward performance metrics 13:21 - Updating GRESB standards to emphasize real-world performance starting 2027 15:00 - Sector-specific metrics: tailoring standards for multifamily and other asset types 16:30 - Limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach in real estate measurement 17:54 - Developing sector-specific engagement, especially for multifamily housing 20:07 - The concept of net zero: energy efficiency, decarbonization, and practical definitions 21:26 - Advantages of low-volatility, domestically sourced renewable energy 23:06 - The challenges and evolving landscape of net zero terminology and risks 24:48 - Global leadership in sustainability: Canadian and Australian strategies 26:26 - The influence of Canadian pension funds and Australian developers on sustainable practices 27:49 - Closing thoughts and opportunities for further engagement in 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!

18 - If You Do It Right, They Don’t Want to Leave

In this insightful interview, Cory Miller https://www.linkedin.com/in/corymillert/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/corymillert/], CEO of PlugOp https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/], shares expert insights on EV charging in multifamily communities. Discover how strategic planning, real-time diagnostics, and human-centered support are transforming the industry and enhancing resident experiences. Key Topics: - EV charging demand forecasting and demand accuracy - Infrastructure costs and regulation impacts in EV deployment - Practical steps for developers to optimize energy use and reduce costs - Resident experience and support in EV charging - Energy management strategies and remote diagnostics - Upgrading existing EV infrastructure for modern needs - How in-house support enhances resident relationships - The emotional impact of personalized interactions with residents Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Electric Vehicle Charging Innovations 02:47 Cory's Vision for EV Charging Solutions 02:55 Cory Miller's Journey into EV Charging 19:08 EV Charging Regulations and New Construction 23:20 Energy Management Practices for Cost Savings 23:50 The Importance of Human Connection in Support Services 25:21 Building Relationships with Prospective Residents 25:28 Navigating AI in Customer Support 26:38 Advancements in EV Charging Technology 27:38 Enhancing Human Interaction through Technology This episode is brought to you by PlugOp https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/]. EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. PlugOp is the expert, so you don't have to be. As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugOp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights. When it's time to build, PlugOp delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time. If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, PlugOp is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond. To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorship [https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorship] 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #Multifamily #sustainability #EVCharging #GreenEnergy #ElectricVehicles

17 - From Due Diligence to Disposition: Modeling the Building Lifecycle

In this episode, Christopher Naismith https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophernaismith/and [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophernaismith/and] Mary Nitschke explore how energy markets are evolving, the importance of practical sustainability strategies, and how AI is transforming building performance modeling. He emphasizes that decarbonization is less about reaction and more about proactive capital planning. Buildings are like living organisms—each component has a 20-year life cycle, meaning regular modernization is essential. You can't simply retrofit in the moment; you must anticipate future technology shifts and code changes. Join us for insights on future-proofing multifamily assets and leveraging government incentives for financial gains. This episode is brought to you by Energy CX. Energy CX is a modern energy strategy firm built for volatility. We combine data, technology, and real market expertise to help businesses take control of one of their largest—and most unpredictable—operating costs. With more than 2 billion square feet under management across 20+ deregulated states, we’ve back tested and proven that our strategy consistently outperforms traditional procurement. Powered by ABEL™, our proprietary decision engine, we buy energy with the same discipline and timing as a trading desk—giving companies clarity, stability, and a long-term strategic advantage in every energy decision. To Learn More: https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awareness [https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awareness] Chapters 00:00 The Origin of Audette and Market Insights 04:44 Understanding ESG: Challenges and Opportunities 06:37 Decarbonization vs. Energy Efficiency: Key Distinctions 09:31 Proactive Strategies for Future-Proofing Assets 12:36 Leveraging Demand Response for Financial Benefits 15:38 The Role of AI in Decarbonization Efforts 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #UtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #ESG #sustainability #decarbonization #energyefficiency

16 - The Hidden Math Behind Multifamily Sustainability

In this episode, Dimitris Kapsis https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkapsis/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dkapsis/] , Vice President of Energy Management at Fairfield Residential, shares his expertise on leveraging utility data for smarter energy management in multifamily properties. Discover actionable insights on data analysis, equipment upgrades, and measurement verification that can drive significant cost savings and operational efficiency. This episode is brought to you by Public Grid https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/publicgrid/]. Public Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden. We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort. The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties. Learn more: https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroom [https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroom] Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Dimitris Kapsis’s background and expertise 00:30 - Dimitris early career in energy management and real estate 02:00 - The evolution of utility management systems with AUM 03:36 - Data analytics in utility management and cost reductions 04:51 - Industry perspective: Usage driving expense vs. expense driving usage 05:56 - How to analyze and interpret energy consumption data 06:25 - Weather versus baseline energy trends 07:21 - Water usage as a distinct utility with different data considerations 08:17 - Sensitivity of utility data to weather and equipment operation 09:16 - Prioritizing equipment upgrades for maximum savings 10:16 - Lifecycle analysis and proactive replacement strategies 11:42 - Calculating ROI for HVAC and boiler replacements 13:00 - The importance of third-party consultants and ROI benchmarks 14:26 - Secondary benefits of equipment upgrades, including water and energy savings 15:23 - Lighting retrofit success stories and curb appeal improvements 16:30 - Strategies for effective lighting project implementation 17:29 - Piecemeal projects versus comprehensive upgrades 18:47 - Enhancing property curb appeal through lighting 19:24 - The value of design, color, and lighting quality in retrofits 20:28 - Measurement and verification (M&V) best practices 21:25 - Addressing utility rate structures and flat sewer charges 22:20 - Utility incentives, ROI considerations, and cost-benefit analysis 23:17 - Prioritizing projects based on problem severity and ROI 24:12 - The importance of precise metering and sub-metering 26:25 - Analyzing specific utility points versus aggregate loads 27:16 - Final thoughts and closing remarks 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #SustainableLiving #PropTech #Sustainability #WasteReduction #EnergyEfficiency

15 - From Trash Tours to BEPS Compliance

Discover how sustainability leader, Elizabeth Lutz https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-lutz-9aa62325a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-lutz-9aa62325a/], drives environmental progress through community collaboration, innovative standards, and waste reduction strategies in this insightful episode. Gain a better understanding of BEPS, how to create successful collaborations around energy efficiency, and strategies to secure organization-wide sustainability support. This episode is brought to you by PlugOp https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/plugop/]. EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. PlugOp is the expert, so you don't have to be. As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugOp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights. When it's time to build, PlugOp delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time. If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, PlugOp is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond. To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorship [https://www.plugop.com/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=utility-room-sponsorship] Chapters 00:00 Sustainability Journey: From Awareness to Action 05:56 Community and Collaboration in Sustainability 09:08 Waste Management: Personal and Professional Insights 11:54 Integrating Sustainability into Operations 15:08 Building Trust and Communication for Success 18:06 Future Goals: Waste and Energy Efficiency 21:02 Advice for Advancing Sustainability Initiatives 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #TheUtilityRoom #UtilityInsights #Multifamily #SustainableLiving #PropTech #Sustainability #WasteReduction #EnergyEfficiency