Govt. to Bring Energy Code for Commercial Buildings

May 29, 2007	(2 votes, average: 4 out of 5)  Loading ...
Print This Story   Email This Story Subscribe Newsletter

Considering a drastic increase in energy consumption in large commercial buildings, the government has decided to give these establishments a certificate declaring the buildings to be energy efficient if they plan to have a connected power of 500 kilowatts or more.

For the time being, the code will be applicable to new construction commercial buildings as well as integrated townships but a separate code will soon be formulated for reconstruction of old buildings soon.

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has finalized the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) for making an effective use of energy and conservation in buildings. Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde launched the code.

There are certain specifications for minimum energy performance standards for commercial buildings using smaller glass surface, thermal insulators, windows to maximize natural light, shading devices and separate air conditioning system for areas used for long hours. All the details are listed in the code and compliance with the code will be voluntary to initiate with.

Compulsory enforcement of ECBC will help to save 1.7 billion power units per year. The calculated reduction in energy use for upcoming constructions hovers between 25% and 40%. There are few countries which follow building energy code. The list includes America, Europe, Union countries Japan and Canada, says BEE.

Since 2003, there has been a rise of 12.5% in the amount of electricity consumption in commercial sector. In addition, the office space has grown at the rate of 10%, says Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General, BEE.

Air conditioners in such buildings consume 60% of the total electricity available to them. Offices like call centers which has 24×7 environment can toe the building code and bring a drop in consumption by a significant 40% whereas offices operating in daytime can conserve up to 37 percent energy.

News Published Under:   Real Estate India |