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INSIGHTS
BUILDING OWNERS ADVOCATE
FOR ENERGY & CARBON REDUCTION
Welcome to
our thought leadership library!
The OptiBuild Thought Leadership Library brings you articles and real-world lessons from Octavian Vasilovici, focused on energy efficiency and operational carbon reduction—practical guidance for owners, operators, and project leads.
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Sequences of Operation: The Document That Decides Whether Your Building Performs
Most owners think they’re errecting a building: envelope, HVAC, controls, finishes.
In reality, you’re buying a set of operating decisions that will play out every hour for the next 30–40 years. An early and well defined sequence of operations is paramount.

Octavian Vasilovici
Jan 124 min read


Beyond Compliance: How Smart and AI-Driven HVAC Controls Future-Proof Your Building
The real opportunity isn’t in hardware—it’s in intelligence. Adding AI-enabled optimization typically costs less than 1 % of project value yet produces measurable and recurring ROI through reduced consumption, extended equipment life, and improved tenant retention

Octavian Vasilovici
Dec 20, 20252 min read


Technology Without the Hype: What Actually Drives ROI for Building Owners
The future of buildings isn’t about more technology — it’s about smarter choices. Learn how to separate proven ROI tools from expensive distractions, and why strategy — not software — defines the next generation of smart buildings.

Octavian Vasilovici
Nov 10, 20254 min read


From Expense to Advantage: How Heat Pumps and Solar Are Reshaping Canadian Multi-Unit Housing
Heat pumps and solar power are no longer experimental in Canada. They are proven strategies that cut operating costs, reduce carbon risk, and deliver healthier living spaces. For Halifax and other Canadian MURB owners, these technologies now offer a clear path from expense to advantage.

Octavian Vasilovici
Sep 30, 20253 min read


The New Gatekeepers of Data-Centre Value: Power, Water, and Heat
Power, water, and heat are no longer side issues for AI data centres. They are the gatekeepers of whether projects win financing, tenants, and public trust. Here’s how Canadian owners can turn these pressures into opportunities.

Octavian Vasilovici
Sep 23, 20253 min read


How to Future-Proof Your Central Energy Plant: Engineering Insights for Institutional Upgrades
Upgrading a central heating plant is a rare chance to lock in cost savings, lower emissions, and boost resilience. Here’s what institutional owners must get right—before breaking ground.

Octavian Vasilovici
Jul 22, 20252 min read


Why ‘Electrify Everything’ Doesn’t Always Work — And What to Do Instead
Electrify everything? Not so fast. Hybrid heating offers a smarter, more resilient path to decarbonization without the tradeoffs.

Octavian Vasilovici
May 20, 20253 min read


Smarter Buildings, Fewer Headaches: How AI Is Redefining Operations & Commissioning
AI is changing how buildings run—cutting costs, boosting performance, and helping facility teams stay one step ahead of problems.

Octavian Vasilovici
Apr 1, 20253 min read


Inaction Has a Price: Unlock the ROI of Smarter Building Management
Delaying building upgrades costs more than you think. Unlock savings, improve performance, and stay ahead with smarter building strategies.

Octavian Vasilovici
Dec 16, 20243 min read


Stop Wasting Energy: Smarter HVAC Strategies for Morning Warm-Ups That Save Costs and Boost Comfort
Optimize HVAC morning warm-ups with smarter solutions. Save energy, reduce costs, and enhance comfort with data-driven strategies.

Octavian Vasilovici
Dec 5, 20243 min read


Is Longer Really Better? The Financial Realities of Extended Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Energy Conservation
Extending LCCA timelines often leads to hidden costs and unrealistic projections. Discover a balanced approach for true long-term value.

Octavian Vasilovici
Nov 20, 20244 min read


Solar PV & Beyond: Unlocking the Full Potential of Decarbonizing Your Building
Solar PV is vital for decarbonization, but it’s not the only tool. Explore a holistic approach for cost-effective energy solutions.

Octavian Vasilovici
Oct 8, 20243 min read


The Game-Changer: Carbon Shadow Pricing in Building Projects
Carbon shadow pricing in LCCA provides a holistic view of a building project's true cost and environmental impact over an extended period.

Octavian Vasilovici
Sep 10, 20243 min read


Beyond the Checklist: Embracing Value-Based Consulting for Lasting Impact
Discover the shift from deliverable-based to value-based consulting, prioritizing meaningful outcomes and client success.

Octavian Vasilovici
Aug 27, 20243 min read


The Critical Role of Building Energy Simulation
Discover how building energy simulation optimizes performance, reduces costs, and ensures sustainability for high-efficiency buildings.

Octavian Vasilovici
Jul 16, 20242 min read


Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindsets in Investing
Discover how scarcity and abundance mindsets influence real estate investment success and long-term property performance.

Octavian Vasilovici
Jul 2, 20242 min read


The Importance of NPV-Based Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Buildings
Discover how NPV-based life cycle cost analysis offers a comprehensive view of building expenses, ensuring smarter investments.

Octavian Vasilovici
Jun 18, 20243 min read


Welcome to the New OptiBuild Consulting Website: Your Go-To Hub for Sustainability and Building Expertise!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of OptiBuild Consulting’s brand-new website! As sustainability professionals and dedicated...

Octavian Vasilovici
May 14, 20243 min read


Economical Electrification: Practical Tips to Cut Costs for Retrofitting Existing Buildings
practical tips to lower electrification costs for existing buildings, making sustainability more accessible and cost-effective.

Octavian Vasilovici
Feb 20, 20242 min read


Can Net-Zero be Reached? Navigating the Challenges of Achieving Carbon Neutrality
The global push towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions has become a rallying cry in the fight against climate change. Governments,...

Octavian Vasilovici
Feb 20, 20242 min read

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