Importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs)

Source: The post importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs) has been created, based on the article “How high-performance buildings are the next step towards a sustainable future” published in “The Hindu” on 8th October is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Infrastructures

Context: The article discusses the importance of high-performance buildings (HPBs) in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. HPBs use advanced technologies and sustainable design to improve efficiency and occupant comfort. They offer environmental benefits and help cities adapt to rapid urbanization and climate challenges.

Why are buildings important for sustainability?

1. Buildings contribute significantly to global emissions, especially in fast-growing cities.
2. Globally, buildings account for nearly 40% of total energy consumption during their lifespan. They contribute about 28% of energy-related carbon emissions.
3. In India, buildings account for more than 30% of national energy use and 20% of carbon emissions, according to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency.
4. As urbanization increases, the demand for new buildings also rises, leading to higher emissions.

What are high-performance buildings (HPBs)?

1. High-performance buildings (HPBs) build upon the concept of green buildings, which focus on reducing environmental impact through energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials.
2. Green buildings are a foundational step, often certified through programs that assess design and sustainability outcomes.
3. HPBs take these ideas further by achieving peak efficiency in energy, water use, and occupant comfort, using advanced technologies like energy-efficient HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems, smart lighting controls, and real-time monitoring through building management systems (BMS).
4. Examples of HPBs include Unnati in Greater Noida, which uses a solar-optimized façade, and Indira Paryavaran Bhawan in New Delhi, with its advanced HVAC system.

What is the difference between HPBs and green buildings?

1. Scope and Focus: Green buildings focus on basic sustainability goals like energy efficiency, water conservation, and materials sourcing, while HPBs aim for peak efficiency in all areas, including energy, water, and occupant comfort.
2. Technology and Monitoring: HPBs use advanced technologies such as energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart lighting, and real-time performance tracking through building management systems (BMS), as seen in Infosys’ Bengaluru campus. Green buildings are often assessed through certification programs that ensure sustainability goals are met.

For detailed information on Green Technologies read this article here

What are the benefits of HPBs?

1. HPBs provide both environmental and operational benefits.
2. They reduce energy demand, extend the lifespan of building systems, and lower maintenance costs.
3. HPBs also improve indoor air quality, natural lighting, and occupant comfort. Infosys campuses in Bengaluru and Hyderabad use building management systems (BMS) to monitor performance and make changes.
4. HPBs also increase property value and create intelligent ecosystems with automation and AI.

How can HPBs help India’s cities?

1. India’s urban population will reach 600 million by 2030, increasing building demand. Without action, the building sector’s carbon footprint will rise drastically. HPBs reduce energy use and emissions, addressing this urgent challenge.
2. HPBs offer resilience through energy-efficient and adaptive designs.
3. They improve air quality, enhance workplace environments, and reduce resource consumption.
4. Projects like TCS Banyan Park in Mumbai show how HPBs create better spaces with features like green areas and natural lighting.
5. HPBs help cities meet climate goals and manage the challenges of rapid urbanization.

Question for practice:

Discuss how high-performance buildings (HPBs) contribute to reducing energy consumption and addressing climate challenges in rapidly urbanizing cities.