While it is noted that all of the above examples will require the implementation of a Change and in some cases additional costs to the Authority, it is worth considering the alternative scenario. If Project Co proceeded to meet its obligations under the Project Agreement and replace on a like for like basis then this would leave the Authority to bear the full cost to implement NZ initiatives at a later date and would also generate further embodied carbon wastage through the potentially early replacement of functional and relatively new components. It should therefore be considered as a saving in whole life costing terms to undertake works on a Change basis within the handback window.
There is strong evidence of a willingness of private sector parties to work collaboratively with the public sector to assess potential solutions that will still meet the requirements of the Project Agreement but also help the public sector achieve its NZ aims. Within the private sector, FM service providers, in particular, often have building services and energy specialists within their resource pools. In addition, they are very familiar with the buildings and their systems having maintained them for 20-25 years by the time of early handback engagement. They therefore provide a significant source of knowledge both in terms of the buildings but also their experiences of delivering NZ solutions within the built environment. Tapping into this source of knowledge and expertise is strongly recommended.
Authorities should take advantage of this knowledge in working through any condition survey results to assess the NZ benefits that can realistically be achieved for all components scheduled for replacement and identify the most advantageous options and therefore the best returns on investment that can be achieved from a collaborative approach to enhancement of the handback works and review of the Authority's Requirements. This should take the form of a constructive assessment of ways the carbon footprint of the project can be reduced in a practical manner.