High-performance Buildings (HPBs)

Syllabus: GS3/Sustainable Development

Context

• High-performance buildings (HPBs) are at the forefront of sustainable construction. 

About

• Globally, buildings account for nearly 40% of total final energy consumption over their lifespan, primarily for operational needs.
• According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency in India, buildings account for more than 30% of the national energy use and 20% of its carbon emissions.
• This significant energy use leads to approximately 28% of energy-related carbon emissions. 

What are High Performance Buildings?

• These buildings are engineered to achieve high standards in various areas, such as energy use, water conservation, air quality, and resource efficiency, while also considering long-term operational and economic sustainability.
• Energy Efficiency: HPBs are designed to reduce energy consumption significantly compared to conventional buildings. 
• Sustainability: They incorporate sustainable materials, use water-saving technologies, and minimize environmental impact.
• Resilience and Adaptability: HPBs are designed to be adaptable to changing environmental conditions and resilient to climate challenges.
  • This can involve flood-resistant designs, energy backup systems, and durable materials that withstand extreme weather.

Need 

• Buildings are significant contributors to global emissions, especially in fast-growing cities, so improving their energy and carbon efficiency is vital. 
• Failing to act could result in higher energy consumption, greater dependence on fossil fuels, and missed climate targets.
• With India’s urban population expected to reach 600 million by 2030, this challenge is becoming even more urgent. 

Significance

• Cost Savings: Lower operational costs due to reduced energy and water consumption, as well as less maintenance.
• Urbanization Solution: HPBs offer proactive solutions for India’s rapid urbanization, driving the country toward a low-carbon, sustainable economy.
• Improved Health and Productivity: Occupants of HPBs typically experience better indoor air quality and comfort, leading to higher productivity and fewer health-related issues.
• Environmental Impact: HPBs reduce carbon emissions, lower waste generation, and use fewer resources, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
• Increased Market Value: These buildings often have higher resale value, increased tenant satisfaction, and are seen as desirable due to their environmental and health benefits.

Challenges

• High Cost: High-performance buildings often require a higher initial investment due to the cost of advanced materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable design features.
• Complexity of Integrating Systems: Designing and integrating various high-performance systems can be complex. 
• Specialized Maintenance: HPBs often require specialized maintenance and operation practices due to the complexity of advanced systems.
• Regulatory and code barriers can slow down the adoption of high-performance building practices or lead to unforeseen complications during construction.
• Lack of Awareness: Ensuring that occupants understand and embrace sustainable building features requires ongoing education and engagement, which can be challenging to implement effectively.

Conclusion

• As cities grow, the demand for new construction also increases, and without action the sector’s carbon footprint will increase drastically.
• Adopting energy-efficient and low-carbon building practices is thus key to meet climate goals and to promote sustainable urban growth.
• HPBs — built to consume less energy, conserve resources, and withstand unpredictable weather — are an important part of achieving and keeping sustainable living.

Source: TH