Centraali Awarded Prestigious LEED Platinum Certification – A Greener Future for Office Spaces

The Centraali office building in the heart of Helsinki has recently been awarded the LEED EB (Existing Buildings) Platinum certification. This recognition highlights the building’s environmental efficiency, responsible property management, and commitment to user satisfaction.

Sustera, a consulting company specializing in real estate, supported the certification process. After a year-long effort, Centraali achieved the highest LEED EB certification level. According to Sustera’s data, only 16% of LEED-certified buildings in Finland have reached the Platinum level.

Jarno Aalto, Senior Property Manager at Newsec, who oversees Centraali’s property management, shares insights into the certification process and key sustainability aspects.

Setting High Standards for Sustainability

Centraali was originally built in 2014 with sustainability in mind, earning a Platinum-level LEED certification during construction. When the time came to certify the building’s operational phase, the internationally recognised LEED system was the natural choice. From the beginning, the goal was to achieve the highest possible certification.

The process started in early 2024 with an initial assessment, confirming Centraali’s strong environmental performance. However, some areas for improvement were identified to meet the strict Platinum-level requirements, providing a roadmap for necessary upgrades.

Energy Efficiency Recognised with Top Scores

Centraali’s energy efficiency was a priority from the very beginning, with eco-conscious construction solutions laying a strong foundation. The operational phase certification, however, also evaluates the efficiency of building systems and the sustainability of energy sources.

To optimise energy use, a heat pump system was introduced last year, utilising waste heat to cover about 60% of the building’s heating needs. The system also partially supports chilled water production for cooling purposes. Additionally, a solar panel system was installed to enhance energy self-sufficiency.

Further strengthening Centraali’s sustainability, the building uses carbon-free district heating and district cooling, and all purchased electricity comes from wind and hydropower. Energy efficiency is continuously optimised in collaboration with the engineering firm Granlund, an effort that has been ongoing since 2021.

Water Conservation and Waste Management as Part of Sustainability Efforts

Sustainability at Centraali goes beyond energy efficiency. The building also scored well in responsible water usage, with water flow restrictors installed in taps to reduce consumption.

Waste management was another key factor in the certification. Centraali provides tenants with excellent recycling facilities, ensuring that most waste is sorted and recycled, minimising general waste.

Excellent Indoor Air Quality for Well-being and Productivity

During the LEED certification process, an indoor air quality study was conducted, measuring carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs). Both factors are critical for occupants’ well-being and work performance.

High CO2 levels can reduce concentration, causing fatigue and headaches. TVOCs, which come from materials and textiles, can cause irritation and, in the long run, more serious health issues.

The results at Centraali were outstanding. The measured TVOC levels averaged 25 micrograms per cubic meter, well below the recommended target of ≤300 µg/m³, indicating excellent indoor air quality. The ventilation system was also found to be highly effective, earning full points in the certification process.

User Feedback Shapes Future Improvements

As part of the certification, a tenant satisfaction survey was conducted to gather feedback on aspects such as accessibility, temperature control, and lighting. With over 230 responses, the survey provided valuable insights into user experiences and potential areas for improvement.

“The key goal was to give tenants a voice, and we succeeded. The feedback helps us focus on the areas that matter most to our tenants in future developments,” explains Aalto.

Supporting Tenants’ ESG Goals with Transparent Sustainability Data

Centraali’s strong commitment to sustainability also benefits its tenants, supporting their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

Sustainability data, including information on heating, cooling, water usage, and electricity consumption, is openly shared with tenants. This transparency helps them track their own energy use and improve sustainability reporting.

“We have been systematically improving Centraali’s sustainability for years. The technical systems are monitored and optimised monthly, and we’ve enhanced the building’s smart functionality. LEED certification is the final confirmation of these efforts. However, the work doesn’t stop here – we are already planning more energy-efficient lighting solutions,” Aalto concludes.

What is LEED?

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world’s most widely used environmental certification system for buildings. It provides an objective evaluation of a property’s sustainability, considering both environmental impact and occupant well-being.

Read more:

Green Building Council Finland – LEED Certification

Centraali – Available Office Spaces