Johnson Controls relaunches Connected Sprinkler service

The service, which integrates with existing sprinkler systems, can help facility managers shift to predictive maintenance, limit downtime and potentially reduce insurance premiums, the company says.

Summer power bills are going up, federal government warns

Consumers will see a “slight increase” in power bills this summer, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Monday. But that analysis is based on expectations for cooler weather.

US, global cities tout emissions reductions

Local U.S. officials say they’re driving emissions goals from the ground up since the Trump administration’s withdrawal from key international climate events and agreements.

Office downsizing has peaked: Cushman & Wakefield

Economic and geopolitical uncertainties are delaying some restructuring plans, but only temporarily, as pressure to reduce and control commercial real estate spending remains “as strong as ever,” the firm says.  

Data centers could bring alternative battery types into the mainstream, developers say

Artificial intelligence data centers have unique energy needs, and industry insiders say that’s driving a renewed interest in energy storage technologies that have not caught on with utilities.

Canada threatens further tariffs on US steel, aluminum

The exact new rate will depend on progress made toward a tariff deal with the Trump administration that is slated to begin July 21.

Data center heat could make US campuses more efficient, experts say

The U.S. lags Europe and Canada on data center heat recovery, but the industry’s breakneck growth offers a significant opportunity for universities, companies, district energy providers and others.

Proptech firms pull in funding to ramp up AI tools

Improved building data management, operational efficiencies and tenant experiences are three needs driving investment in proptech, experts say.

Municipalities tap AI for permitting

Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, are using the tech to cleave wait times, while Honolulu promises big upgrades and faster responses.

On site: Checking in at the Waldorf Astoria’s $2B renovation

Boston-based Suffolk plans to complete the hotel portion of the restoration at the iconic New York City landmark later this year, according to the contractor.

Life sciences struggles with oversupply in Q1, but upsides exist, experts say

Building owners with higher vacancy rates are increasingly shifting their attention to alternative end users, like AI firms. Downsizing and more efficient space use could help alleviate oversupply, CBRE and JLL reports say. 

Targeted investment, tech can sustain critical infrastructure

To help communities bounce back after disaster, jurisdictions must identify gaps in lifeline systems and cost-effective ways to mend them, panelists at the Building Innovation 2025 conference said.

Meta signs geothermal power deal for New Mexico data centers

The tech and social media giant entered an agreement with XGS Energy to help develop 150 MW of geothermal power generation.

Bladeless ceiling fan maker touts design’s energy, air quality benefits

Pulling cool, dry air from the floor and redistributing it across the room can save operators money while improving indoor air quality, a bladeless fan manufacturer says.

How the potential end of Energy Star could affect building operators

The demise of the widely-used program could lead to a massive disruption in building operations, experts say.

ICE preparedness is crucial for hoteliers in 2025

As U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement crackdowns spread nationwide, hotels should prioritize tools and training to create a safe environment for workers and guests alike.

ASHRAE, ICC open second review period for building lifecycle emissions standard

The proposed joint standard seeks to establish a methodology for quantifying embodied and operational greenhouse gas emissions across the lifecycle of buildings and their sites.

Microgrids keep the lights on for wildfire-prone California facilities

But federal tax changes under consideration in Congress could make microgrids more expensive for schools and localities that provide services during emergencies.

New ASCE codes aim to provide vital flood protection

The American Society of Civil Engineers’ updated standards mark a major shift in approach for design and construction in flood hazard areas, according to a floodplain manager.

50% tariff hike imposed on freezers, other appliances

The Trump administration is raising the price of foreign products to aid the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers.

Vendors streamline integrations as operators seek unified systems: Realcomm IBcon

Attendees at the real estate tech conference last week said they’re looking for concrete operational AI use cases that integrate smart building technology with other systems. 

Workplace injuries are declining, but costs are climbing, Travelers report finds

Increasing retirement ages, ongoing turnover and longer injury recovery times have contributed to the cost increases, an executive for the firm said.

Gettysburg quishing scam highlights facilities’ vulnerability

Parking services are sometimes a target. Scammers are using QR codes to redirect people away from legitimate payment methods, safety bulletins say.

Facility pilot projects should move quickly and focus on value, not cost: experts

To avoid getting stuck in the demonstration process, building operators should build a plan around pilot projects and ensure they solve business needs, speakers at Realcomm IBcon said. 

Amazon expands recycled water use at US data centers

The company will use recycled water to cool its data centers at 120 of its locations by 2030 as it works to grapple with the environmental demands of the energy-intensive operations.