Limited visibility of energy data: why strata managers are left in the dark

The hidden blind spot

In many strata buildings, energy consumption data is fragmented, incomplete, or difficult to access. Some lots may have their own individual meters, while common property usage is lumped together under a single account. This patchwork of information makes it almost impossible for strata managers and committees to see the full picture of how and where energy is being consumed. 

Why this is a problem 

Without reliable data, managers are forced to rely on assumptions when explaining costs or proposing upgrades. Bills may rise sharply from one quarter to the next, but without detailed breakdowns, no one can pinpoint the cause. Inefficient equipment may continue running unchecked because there’s no visibility on performance. Benchmarking energy use against similar buildings becomes impossible, leaving strata portfolios blind to opportunities for savings. 

This lack of clarity also undermines communication with owners. When levies increase without a clear explanation, trust between owners, committees, and managers begins to erode. Owners want to know where their money is going, and without hard data, managers are left offering generalisations instead of answers. 

The wider consequences

Poor data visibility creates a cycle of inaction. Committees may hesitate to approve upgrades because they can’t see the projected return on investment. Strata managers may delay tenders because usage patterns are unclear, reducing their ability to negotiate competitive contracts. In many cases, managers spend hours chasing information from multiple sources, only to end up with incomplete answers that raise more questions than they resolve. 

Over time, this lack of insight costs buildings real money. Inefficiencies remain hidden, savings are left on the table, and managers are forced into a reactive position rather than a proactive one. 

How SES can help

This is where Strata Energy Services (SES) provides a solution. By consolidating fragmented data, benchmarking performance across portfolios, and delivering clear, committee-ready reports, SES gives managers and committees the visibility they need. With accurate insights, inefficiencies can finally be identified, savings can be unlocked, and owners can gain confidence that their levies are being managed fairly and effectively.