Bridging energy performance gaps in green office buildings: a case study from Malaysia

Purpose This study aims to investigate the underlying causes of the energy performance gap (BEPG) in green office buildings in Malaysia, with particular emphasis on organisational, leadership and occupant behavioural factors. It further derives practical strategies to bridge the gap based on empirical findings. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory qualitative approach was adopted using multiple case studies of ten Green Building Index (GBI)-certified office buildings. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with facilities management and energy management personnel. The data were analysed using NVivo through a three-stage coding process (open, axial and selective coding), followed by cross-case thematic analysis. Findings The findings reveal that BEPG is primarily driven by interrelated organisational, leadership, behavioural and technological factors. Key challenges include limited facilities management authority, fragmented organisational structures, budget constraints and low occupant engagement. These factors collectively constrain effective energy management practices and widen the performance gap. Practical implications Based on the findings, this study proposes a set of practical strategies, including strengthening facilities management authority, improving organisational governance, enhancing monitoring systems and promoting occupant engagement, to improve operational energy performance. Originality/value This study provides empirically grounded insights into BEPG in Malaysian green office buildings and contributes a practical strategy framework to bridge the gap between predicted and actual energy performance.