Electrifying a landmark

101 Collins Street is demonstrating how existing commercial buildings can transition from gas to electric heating while maintaining performance and tenant comfort.

Completed in 1991, Melbourne's iconic 101 Collins Street was originally designed around gas-fired heating systems. As tenant expectations, carbon targets and standards evolved, the owners identified electrification to future-proof the asset and support its net zero ambitions. The project began by replacing gas-powered hot water systems with high-efficiency heat pumps, thermal storage and rooftop solar. Early results showed an 81 per cent reduction in energy consumption. Building on this success, the site undertook one of Australia's largest electrification projects, replacing gas-fired heating plant with electric heat pumps. The system delivers the high-temperature heating required by a 57-storey office tower while eliminating fossil fuels. Importantly, the transition was completed in an occupied office building without disrupting tenants or operations. The project demonstrates that even large existing buildings can successfully electrify. Case study credit: A.G. Coombs.