I2bgreen - August 2009

Why We Print “Inspired to be GREEN”

Here are the reasons why we think printing would make a bigger difference: We are living in a time where everyone is busy and time is the most valuable good. To read information from paper is better for your eyes and you can take our magazine wherever you like. Whenever you get a free minute, pull it out, and get to know the latest & greatest green news and a whole lot of information that would help you in the design & construction of green buildings.

“Inspired to be GREEN” will make you think of a healthier planet and a greener future. If you take just one action to be greener, make greener products, use renewable materials or invest in green technology then you can easily offset 10, 100 or 1000 times the emissions caused by printing this magazine. After you read the magazine you can give it for paper recycling or you get very creative and make something useful out of it. We hope that you love our magazine and collect the issues or hand it over to other people, to share the knowledge. We put all our passion for green and our love for mother earth in creating this magazine, and we hope you will enjoy reading it.

inspired to be

Take the first action and just read it, and then tell others to read it too.

for those inspired by green, written by the experts in green

We asked ourselves, should we publish “Inspired to be GREEN” as a paper magazine or should we just send it out as an email? Wouldn’t it make sense to send it digitally with zero emissions? We would avoid deforestation by not printing and then prevent further pollution caused by the distribution. Then again, you can make a much bigger difference by reading, learning and implementing green in your buildings and in your life...

Dear Colleague, We thank you for giving us the opportunity to introduce the only magazine in India, aimed at the Green Architecture & Construction Community, “Inspired to be Green”. We have sent you this magazine because we feel that you are one of the key members of the fast growing Green Industry. We are proud to announce the launch of this monthly magazine, which will cater to architects, developers & builders, engineers and all other consultants involved, or interested, in the rapidly growing field of Green Architecture & Construction. The magazine contains articles about green construction, news & events, LEED & other certification rating systems, technical articles and renewable energy. we will introduce a classified section and advertisements of services & products related to Green in future issues. Our goal is to raise awareness and form a medium for communication, so that the community is up to speed on the latest developments, projects, people, services and products available in our quest to make our buildings and world a more healthy & sustainable place to live. Our team is passionate about Green and consists of designers, architects, engineers, consultants, green building professionals and LEED AP’s. We welcome you to make yourself heard in the community, through our publication, so feel free to write to us. We hope you enjoy reading our articles and learn from them, as much as we are delighted to have put them together for you. We welcome your suggestions and comments and would like to grow the scope and content of our magazine through the wishes and needs of our readers. Stay Inspired & Green Regards,

Inspired to be GREEN team “We need a new environmental consciousness on a global basis. To do this, we need to educate people.” - Mikhail Gorbachev

inspired

to be

page 2

Green Personality of the Month Dr. Prem C Jain

GREEN

C O N T E NT S

The man we all consider as the “Father of the Green Movement in India”. Take a look at his life, vision and role in the Indian Green Building Council as well as CMD of one of the largest MEP and Green Consultants in India, Spectral Services.

page 10

Green Project of the Month Patni Knowledge Centre

Located in Noida, Patni is India’s first IGBC Platinum rated project. See what makes this project green and who was involved in making this breathtaking & very efficient model of sustainable architectural design & construction.

page 16

Green Product of the Month Electric Scooter from BSA Motors

The new range of eScooters from BSA is a great option for the eco-conscious and cost conscious person. You can save money, reduce emissions and look very trendy on the very modern and green E Scooter. Do your part to help save mother nature.

page 27

Green Firm of the Month C.R.Narayana Rao

C.R.Narayana Rao is one of the leading architectural firms in the country and at the forefront of Green Design & Construction in India and around the world. Get to know the firms history, philosophy, leaders, some green project examples and how “Going Green is a Way of Life”.

page 47

New, Cool and Green Green Walls

Green “Living” walls and “Vertical Gardens” are fast becoming a statement of design in many international landmarks. Inspired to be Green has travelled the globe to bring you the best information from Vertical Gardens creator Patrick Blanc & ELT-India about how plants can be grown on walls.

Green Homes IGBC

An in-depth article about IGBC Green Homes rating system with benefits of going green and also, who is already doing it!

LEED Decoded

A Green Building Consultants explanation and calculation for the Materials & Resources Credit 4 on Recycled Content for LEED Certification

Absorbtion Cooling

Cooling with hot water, the future of air conditioning? An explanation of the principles and functioning of this green option.

Dr. Prem Jain my jounrney...

p e r s o n a l i t y of the month

in the path of green

CMD, Spectral Services Chairman, IGBC

background My early years were spent fulfilling my revered Mother’s dream of excelling and attaining the highest education in Engineering, first from Banaras and later Doctorate from the USA with straight “A” grade. She has instilled in me the Sanskars of peace through early morning meditation, purity of thought and action, respect for women in image of Shakti, enrichment of life through sharing of knowledge, and giving with an open heart. Being born in a Jain family, the respect for all life (Non-violence) and A-parigraha (minimum possessions) are deeply ingrained. Mother’s pious blessings have enlightened my growing years.

I returned to India in 1970 carrying 15 years of learning and working experience in the USA, filled with great passion to serve the Mother Land let us join hands to restore the failing health and to contribute my share in fulfilling ‘sages’ of our mother earth, to her pristine glory prediction that India will rise to her ancient eminence. My ideals were formed through writings of Rabindra Nath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, Jawahar Lal Nehru (Discovery of India), A. L. Basham (The wonder that was India), Edwin Arnold (The Light of Asia), Pearls S. Buck (Letter from Pelking) and many more. We brought back from long stay in the USA, no electronics nor consumer goods, but almost 5000 books, and had a harrowing time with the customs. CII, Building Hyderabad

The year 1980 stands out as “The Year of my life’s great accomplishments” through founding of ISHRAE and Spectral. ISHRAE is the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating & Air Conditioning Engineers, founded on lines of world’s foremost professional Society ASHRAE (then 85 years old) which I had joined in 1959 in the USA. ISHRAE serves the fraternity of Refrigeration & Air conditioning Engineers throughout India and currently has 32 Chapters with 8500 members, including many shop floor operators. It also has as many student chapters. Two years ago ISHRAE joined IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) and is spearheading K to 12 program, sensitizing school children on Path of Green. Bal Diwas 2008 (Nov 14th) saw one lakh children participate in Green Painting Competition organized all over the country through ISHRAE’s 32 chapters.

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The birth of

Spectral

Spectral was formed in 1980, to provide consultancy for integrated and coordinated design of Engineering Services (Air Conditioning, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Fighting & Low Voltage Systems) for buildings. The mission was to design buildings with optimum energy and water consumption, provide good indoor air quality, total fire safety, meet Owner’s budget and completion schedule, and provide fully integrated services. This was then a new concept for Indian consultancy and we never looked back. Owners, Developers, Architects & Project Managers loved the concept of one stop responsibility which has now become the norm in most parts of India. Over the three decades, Spectral family has grown from 4 members to 450, most of whom have made it their lifetime commitment. We have more than 1000 projects completed by Spectral, and almost all of these fulfilling all the above mentioned parameters. These are living examples of Green Buildings.

“Modern buildings consume almost 40 percent of global energy and 30 percent of domestic water. These also generate huge amount of waste both during construction and later during operation. Green Buildings cut all these to half or less” - Dr. Prem C Jain

IGBC and the green building movement in India How it all Began... In the year 2000, US past President Clinton came to Hyderabad to review the progress of US funded projects in Hi-Tech city, and sowed the seeds of the Green Business Centre. CII took up the challenge and Mr. Jamshyd Godrej offered to finance the Green Business Centre for India. The measure of Greenness was the LEED (Leadership in Environment & Energy Design) rating system designed by US Green Building Council (USGBC) and formulated in 1993. CII formed the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), signed MOU with USGBC and the first LEED Platinum (highest) rated building came up in Hyderabad. It was the brainchild of the visionary Architect Karan Grover who chose Spectral for services design. Godrej Business Centre Hyderabad earned the highest points from USGBC and at that time (for six more months), became the Greenest Building on the Planet (as measured by LEED). The past President of India inaugurated it in 2003. However, the movement initially grew very slowly.

Dr.Jain

my role in the

IGBC

January 2007, I agreed to Lead IGBC and to take the Green Building Movement to Builders, Developers, Corporates, Construction Managers, Hoteliers, Architects and Consultants. We have Indianized the LEED rating system and formulated LEED India guidelines for Commercial Buildings, altering it as per our needs, since 2007, IGBC has also developed wholly Indian rating systems namely, IGBC Green Homes and IGBC Green Factories, and are now developing for other disciplines like IGBC Green Schools & Existing Buildings. With more than thirty years of rich experience as Visiting (part time) Faculty at School of Planning & Architecture, Delhi University and consultant to captains of construction industry, I have been able to bring around many younger Developers, specially in the western & southern regions of India, and many Architects to commit to making Green Buildings.

And the IGBC today... Today, we have more than 30 certified Green buildings and more than 320 registered (measuring almost 20 crore sq. ft) buildings with IGBC. The rating is assigned by an independent jury, only after the building is occupied, and the independent third party commissioning agent has completed the measurement & verification, and submits results to the IGBC. The evaluation system is totally transparent. From 2007 onwards all Green buildings coming up in India have to register with IGBC, not with USGBC, so as to encourage local practices. The Sohbrabji Godrej Green Business Centre, Hyderabad

We have nine chapters of the IGBC covering the entire country; each chapter is chaired by an eminent local developer or architect. Our membership in the last two years has swelled to almost 500, all contributing their time to spread awareness about the Green Building Movement in India. Since recycling is the way of life in India, I know in my heart, we will lead the movement to preserve the life on the Planet. Our mission is to have a billion square feet of new Green Construction, through 1 sq. ft. contribution by each Indian.

Modern buildings consume almost 40 percent of global energy and 30 percent of domestic water. These also generate huge amount of waste both during construction and later during operation. Green Buildings cut all these to half or less. We were often requested by Architects & Developers to help and guide them in making their concept design suitable for Green Certification. Carrying our philosophy of providing one stop comprehensive service, we started in 2008, Spectral Sustainability Group. We now have more than 25 bright young Architects/Civil Engineers carrying out Facilitation, Energy Modelling, Day Light Analysis & Computer Simulation for host of new buildings coming up across the country. The future of mankind is Green and the Spectral Sustainability Group will be part of the Green Building movement in India.

Inspired to be GREEN on behalf of the Green Community would like to thank Dr. Prem Jain for his great contributions to establish, develop and lead the green community to where it stands today. The growth of this movement towards a more sustainable building industry is in all of our hands and we should strive for excellence in green and establish India to be a world leader in eco sensitive design, construction and living.

5

A E P L

Chennai’s

Pilates & Yoga Studio

MIND-BODY Dynamic Balance

FUNCTIONAL YOGA

1st

Santosh 98400 83340

PILATES*

On various equipments and on mat

Nita 98400 72626

FUNCTIONAL TRAINING

BENEFITS OF PILATES & YOGA Creates core stability and trains the body to function more efficiently and easily

Builds a stronger body with better balance and flexibility

Develops lean, strong and firm muscles

Strengthens the lower back

Improves posture

Relieves many types of back, shoulder and joint pain

Strengthens deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles, decreasing and even eliminating incontinence

Increases bone mass guarding against Osteoporosis

Increases energy by focusing on breathing

* Stott Pilates

LEAP WELLNESS STUDIO # 31, 4th Main Road, R.A. Puram, Chennai - 600 028. Tel: + 91 44 32523250 Web: www.leapwellness.com

aluplast GmbH I Kunststoff-Fenstersysteme Auf der Breit2 II D-76227 Karlsruhe II Fon +49I0I721 47171-0II Fax +49 I0I721 47171-999 II [email protected] II www.aluplast.de India office : B-26, Second Floor, Lajpat Nagar - III, New Delhi - 1120024 Ph.: 011-2983 0646, Fac: 011-2983 0647 II [email protected] II II www.aluplasr.in/ www.aluplast.com II

i

to be

GREEN

project

of the month

p a t n i

knowledge center

The first project to be IGBC Rated “LEED Platinum” There were interactive sessions of all involved in the project during entire design and construction process, for inputs, transparency and to ensure that strict ethical practices and principles were followed. A high standard of social responsibility was monitored by project management team. Sheetal Rakheeja, Partner, Design & Development, Project Architects

LEED CONSULTANT

MEP CONSULTANT

CIVIL CONTRACTOR

PLUMBING CONTRACTOR

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Ankoor Sanghvi

Spectral Services Consultants Pvt. Ltd.

Dhasmesh Promoters & Developers Pvt. Ltd.

D.S Gupta Const. Pvt. Ltd.

MEC Electric Contracts Pvt. Ltd.

HVAC CONTRACTOR

STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT

PROJECT MANAGER

ARCHITECT & INTERIOR DESIGN

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

Suvidha Engineers India Ltd.

Goyal Associates

Design & Development

Design & Development

Habitat Design

Concept The basic design is inspired by the traditional inward look “Indian Haveli Plan” Design that balances environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, resource efficiency, occupant comfort & well being and community sensitivity. The design concept is that of a simple straight line low key architecture in context with the surroundings, site and climate. Passive (architecturally) & active (mechanical, electrical) strategies have been designed to minimize energy consumption. The architects on this project, Design & Development, led by renowned architects & green advocates like Vidur Bharadwaj, Sheetal Rakheja and Jitendra Puri, assisted by Mona Behl, Neha Arora, Amit Rawal, Rakesh Singh, Anwar and Reena Kalra.

The Courtyard “Courtyard is an environmental device that combines the principles of physics, perception and cultural psychology. It produces an aesthetic language in which nature is reinstated as a beneficent force in architecture.” The building is designed around two beautifully landscape courtyards with water bodies, plants, sculpture as visual nodes that enhances and binds the space. The building envelope opens out with greater transparency towards the courtyard. The elevation is inspired from a typical Indian Haveli Jharokha. The building depth is optimized to capture day light for more than 75% of occupied interiors and to maximize outdoor views.

Water features in courtyards lowers down ambient temperature. The courtyard, hence performs multifunction of being a light well, a microclimatic generator & a landscape element.

11

Sustainability Begins at the Site The building has been oriented north south. North receives minimum direct sunlight and south has high sun, which can be cut off by horizontal projections. Computer simulation has been done for the building. All Exterior shading systems have been designed, to cut off heat while getting in glare free light. Peripheral Vehicular movement, 100% parking in the basement and entry – exit ramps in closest proximity to the site’s frontage helps not only in maximizing landscape areas, reducing heat island effect but also on site infiltration of rain water. More than 50% of ground area has been kept green to increase porosity of site and reduce heat island effect.

Water Efficiency The Patni project is a Zero discharge building, which means that the entire rain water is collected and taken to harvesting tanks. Sewage is 100% treated and the water recycled is used for cooling tower makeup, gardening and flushing, hence no sewage leaves the site. Solar water heating, drip irrigation, native & low water consuming plants have been adopted for efficient water management strategies. Water Conserving Strategies like Dual Flush toilets, low flow urinals and Faucets with Sensors have been used to reduce the amount of potable water being used for flushing and flow fixtures. This not only reduces the demand for fresh clean water for toilet use, but also reduces the amount of sewage generated.

Energy Efficiency High COP water chilling machines, high efficient motors, and blowers have been used. Variable frequency drives to increase part load efficiency, modulating fresh air dampers linked to CO2 sensors for adding fresh air on demand are some of the features for HVAC system employed. Pre cooled fresh air and heat recovery wheels further help in energy conservation method. Active and Passive features together help in saving 35.8% energy over Ashrae base building as per building simulation results. The commissioning agency will be involved not only in fundamental and additional commissioning of the building systems, but also in measurement and verification process.

Materials Construction waste is segregated and more than 75% is diverted from landfill by reusing, recycling or handing over to appropriate agencies. Waste stone and cladding material have been reused on site as planter & feature walls. Resource efficiency achieved in Patni included: 90% of the materials (by value) are sourced regionally, 25% are old reused materials, 15% have high recycled content and 10% are rapidly renewable materials.

Indoor Environmental Quality

Conclusion

To enhance indoor environment for occupants comfort and well being, various strategies are employed which not only reduce health problems but also promote productivity. 75% of the areas receive natural daylight. Light-shelves are introduced to enhance reflective glare free natural light in the building interiors. Low VOC paints, sealants & adhesives have been used.

The Architects, Design & Development, and the entire team have done a fabulous job of creating a project which is truly unique and green. Every detail, ranging from conceptual design to construction administration and final operation of the building has been addressed in terms of Green and Environmental Impact. We hope that many projects are designed and built with the same passion, enthusiasm and in depth knowledge of Green.

LED’s A Bright idea to save MORE Technology The LED consists of a chip of semiconducting material impregnated with impurities to create a  p-n junction. Current flows easily from the anode to the cathode, but not in the reverse direction. Charge carrier-electrons and holes flow into the junction from  electrodes  with different  voltages. When an electron meets a hole, it falls into a lower  energy level, and releases energy in the form of a photon. The  wavelength  of the light emitted, and therefore its color, depends on the  band gap  energy of the materials forming the anode-cathode junction.

Advantages of LED’s • Resistant to breakages. • Non sensitive to frequent on-off. • Contain nil mercury. • Dimming control with reduced power consumption possible. • Small size. • Colors from warm to cool white available.

LED – An Introduction Light Emitting Diode (LED), is based on semiconductor diode technology. Ever since the invention of the light bulb by Thomas Alva Edison in 1879, the development of LED technology, is being regarded as revolutionary. It is set to improve the efficiency of the lighting world dramatically. The Light emitting diode called as LED was invented in the 1970s, and has since undergone rapid advancement. Initially used as indicator lights in electronic devices, today LEDs are used in a wide variety of applications in diverse fields.

Parts of an LED

15

LED Lighting Application Signs and Indicators

Lighting

Non visual applications

Traffic Lights Exit signs LED displays like stadium televisions Aircraft cockpits, submarines etc where night vision has to be maintained

Street lights Home lights, office lights Architectural lighting Night vision security cameras

To increase photosynthesis in plants Remote controls for TV etc Movement sensors like optical computer mice Sterilization of water using UV

InnovLite Private Limited Innovlite is an innovator in the lighting space who is committed to create a clean and green environment by providing energy efficient lighting products and solutions. The company was started in 2005 to pursue opportunities in the Lighting Products and Solutions space. Innovlite is headquartered in Bengaluru and provides a new generation lighting solutions with Solid State Technology (LED Lighting).  It’s expertise lies in the field of General Illumination and Specialty Lighting. The clientele includes major MNC’s such as IBM, Sun micro systems, CTS,TATA-ELXSI and much more.

Savings through LED – a case study A fortune 50 IT company has reduced its electricity bill to 1/3 of its earlier bills, by applying the thought of LED lighting solutions. The total energy consumption was a steep 3,50,000 KW/year. The power consumption now is 73,000 KW/year and electricity bill came down by 80%. Upon recommendation the CFL bulbs were replaced by LED lights. The lobby was lit up by soft lights only in the required areas. In the corridor dim lights were used and intelligent lighting system were installed in the rest rooms. These lighting systems will dim the light completely when the room is not in use.  Replacement

CFL’s LED 40(2*18) watts/fixture 8.3 watts/fixture 24 24

Savings Calculation Electricity consumption (Kwh/year) Yearly electricity bill (@ Rs 5/unit) Annual maintenance cost (Rs) Net savings/year (Rs)

CFLs 3,50,000 17,50,000 2,00,000

LED 73,000 3,65,000 0 15,85,000/-

LED's can save up to 80 % of your energy consumption for lighting and reduce cooling loads. For further information on energy efficient lighting contact: M/s Innovlite (India) Private Limited,  No 818, Ambaprasad, 13th Cross 7th block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru - 560082 Phone: +91 80 32920984 – 88 www.innovlite.com

InnovLite

LED lighting applications. Source : innovlite.com

Existing Lighting type Power consumption Usage hours

What is it ?

Why an eScooter ? Savings

How is it Green? Intelligent Technology?

16

It’s a conventional fuel free, battery powered vehicle, in which the electric motor is the prime mover, which is powered by the electric charged battery. The concept was first conceived in bicycles has now been advocated to the scooters. The Indian two-wheeler industry has embraced the new concept of electric Bikes and Scooters which are very popular mode of personal transport in developed countries like America, Canada & Japan. With the rising cost of fuel at international and national level, increasing levels of pollution and congestion in transport system, higher running and maintenance cost of vehicle, the electrically charged bikes or scooters have a very bright future in area of personal transportation. Light weight and simple design make these electrical powered vehicles very low in running and maintenance cost. With the ease of handling, electric two wheelers save the commuting time in congested roads of urban areas. Hence its definitely a positive move towards making the environment green! eScooters are more efficient in terms of generating usable energy from their electric engine’s battery in comparison to the regular fuel conversion. The eScooter is an innovative and efficient mode of personal transport. Electric bikes or scooters use electricity therefore no emission of harmful gases like Carbon dioxide (CO2) or Nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Electric motors often achieve 90%  energy conversion efficiency  over the full range of speeds and power output and can be precisely controlled. They can also be combined with  regenerative braking  systems that have the ability to convert movement energy back into stored electricity. This can be used to reduce the wear on brake systems (and consequent brake pad dust) and reduce the total energy requirement of a trip, especially effective for start-and-stop city use.

BSA Motors, a division of Murugappa group,

has launched 5 models of this eScooter, namely Smile, Diva, Street Rider, Roamer & Roamer+, with varying technical specifications, catering to the specific need of the riders of all age groups priced between 28,000 to 36,000 Rupees

Components & Functions Battery (AGM VRLA)

Acting as a primary power source of the vehicle.

Charger (Fly back & Half bridge)

Recharging of the battery. Different rating for different power vehicles. Recharging time 6~8 hours.

Motor (BLDC) Controller (H bridge)

Mounted in the rear hub, due to which complete vehicle moves. Different rating of motor will give different speed. Electronically controlling the speed of the motor.

Converter

Converting 48V to 12V for all the auxiliary load like (Switching Device) bulbs, horn etc. Accelerator (Hall Sensor)

Hall effect sensor will vary 0 to 5V depending upon its position and give signal to controller for the speed variation.

Brake

Electronic brake which will give signal to controller (Electronic Switch) to cut-off the output of the controller to save energy.

Technical Specifications Function of the motor in eScooter The motor used for making the vehicle move is Brushless Direct Current motor (BLDC), which has half-a-dozen or more separate coils and replace the commutator and brushes with an  electric  circuit. The circuit switches the power on and off in the coils what creates forces in each one that make the motor spin. Since the brushes press against the axle of a conventional motor, they introduce friction, slow it down, and waste  energy. Hence brushless motors are often more efficient, especially at low speeds. Getting rid of the brushes also saves having to replace them every so often when friction wears them down.

Description

Smile

Roamer +

Motor Power

<250 Watts

800Watts

Max. Speed

25 kmph

45 kmph

Range / Charge

60 km

55 km

Load Capacity

1 Adult + 1 Child

2Adult’s

Sealed Lead Acid (Maintenance Free)

Battery type Operating voltage Battery Charge Time

48V 6-8 hrs

Charger Type

48V, 2A

48V, 5A

Kerb Weight

65 kg

107 kg

Vehicle Operation 1. Turn ON Power by turning the Power ON/Off key.

2. Check Battery Level Indicator

3. 4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

on instrument panel which also shows the level of charge in the battery. Just twist the Throttle. Controller takes power from battery and delivers variable power to rotate the motor at different speed, in turn the vehicle moves. Brake levers are provided on both sides of the handle bar (left 'Brake lever for rear Brake and right lever for front Brake). On application 'of 'Brakes, 'the Power supplied to the Motor is cut off through the sensors, resulting in energy saving. Turn lamp (side indicator), head lamp and horn switches are provided on the Handle bar. Battery needs to be charged at the end of usage, which will take approx. 6 to 8 hours. Depending upon the distance covered.

Green features of the eScooter 1. 2. 3. 4.

No IC engine Conventional fuel-free Battery powered vehicle No sound pollution

5. No air pollution 6. Environment friendly 7. Battery replaces petrol tank 8. Light weight 9. Low operating cost 10.Low maintenance 11.Soft & smooth riding 12.Motor is a prime mover

Inspired to be Green would like to know.....if you don’t have to spend more money to buy it, and spend a lot less to operate it, and it was “the right thing to do for our mother earth”, isn’t the BSA eScooter the logical choice?

Skyshade Daylights

6-3-1216/141, Methodist Colony, Kundan Bagh, Begumpet, Hyderabad - 500 016

Tel/Fax +91-04-66623392/93 +91-04-32000289 Banglore: +91-9343460009 e-mail : [email protected] www.lightpipe.in

BAHRAIN WORLD BWTC, located in Manama Bahrain, is portraying to the world that Bahrain is committed to options that reduce demand on fossil fuel energy reserves and will move urban and building design in desert climates in a more sustainable direction. This innovative design solution came entirely from Atkins’ Chief Architect, Shaun Killa, the client readily embraced the concept.

BWTC a Flagship development

The client embraced the idea from the concept, knowing there would be both a benefit in terms of energy savings, as well as the simultaneous creation of an iconic symbol that would lead the way in sustainable design in the Middle East. The program was extremely tight and was further compounded by the need to carry out feasibility studies on integrating the wind turbines.

“FROM PRE-CONCEPT TO ACTUALITY” By SHAUN KILLA “I noticed on my first few site visits to Bahrain how windy it was due to the constant onshore breeze blowing perpendicular to the sea facing site. It struck me that this would be a perfect opportunity to create a twin tower which could also incorporate wind turbines. I was aware that it had never been done before, so the first challenge was to understand the constraints on how they work. This then had to be combined with a building form that created the most favorable wind patterns and at the same time was efficient and economically driven. From the first sketch I had a clear vision of integrating renewable energy into the design of the BWTC. Through the support of the client and Atkins commitment to sustainability, we have enabled this vision to be realized. This development sets a technological precedent which we hope raises the awareness of environmental design and its importance in the built environment and we hope it paves the way for designers and clients to incorporate renewable and energy efficient measures into their future developments to reduce carbon emissions. We are very optimistic about the future because we have clearly demonstrated that we can create a commercial development which is underpinned by an environmental agenda.”

TRADE CENTER THE TOWER DESIGN The masterplan for the extended development that rejuvenates the existing mall and hotel provides additional 50 storey twin office towers with unobstructed views over the Arabian Gulf, a new shopping mall with anchor tenant and several food outlets. The focal point of the development are the twin triangular shaped towers which sit above a sculpted three-story podium. Tapering to a height of 240m, each tower is visually anchored to the ground by a concertina of curved, sail-like forms, and provides 34 floors of office space and an exclusive viewing deck on the 42nd floor.

Unique to this building and rising to the challenge of incorporating renewable energy solutions within sustainable architecture, the design includes three 29m diameter wind turbines horizontally supported on bridges. The turbines are expected to produce between 11 and 15 percent of the total electrical consumption of the towers. Many months of research, including extensive dialogues with turbine manufacturers, were conducted through the feasibility concept and design development stages of the project. Technical validation included computational fluid dynamics modelling, wind tunnel testing, vibration and acoustic assessments, electrical integration analysis and SARM analysis. The output from these was incorporated by design teams into an integrated building, bridge and turbine design. Inspired to be Green thanks ATKINS for the information to create this article.

23

l e e d decoded

What is Recycling?

Materials & Resources: credit 4 : Recycled content Recycling involves processing used materials into new products. This will prevent waste of potentially useful materials, reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials, reduce energy usage, reduce air pollution and water pollution by reducing the need for “conventional” waste disposal. Recycling also lowers greenhouse gas emissions as compared to virgin production. The cost of many raw materials, and the energy to convert these materials into usable products, Has increased dramatically during the last few years. various industrial metals, including steel, copper, and aluminum have seen particularly large increase in cost. ‘Embodied’ energy, which is all the energy required to extract, manufacture and transport a building’s materials as well as that required to assemble and ‘finish’ it. For some materials, the cost of recycling is far less than this embodied energy and recycling is the best option. Source : albedo.com

A great example of a material with high embodied energy is aluminum. The amount of energy involved with recycling aluminum is only 5% of the cost involved with extracting & processing it from the bauxite ore. Only 5% of the co2 is produced during the recycling process compared to producing raw aluminum and an even smaller percentage when considering the complete cycle of mining and transporting the aluminum. 31% of all aluminum produced in the United States comes from recycled scrap and this number is rising in most countries.

Products made with recycled content:

• • • • • • •

Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks with fly ash Cotton fiber insulation Glass Carpets made with recycled materials Metal roofing Composite wood boards Recycled plastic lumber

Source : bondedlogic.com

Some of the most commonly used products with recycled content are:

Source : cpwrconstructionsolutions.org

Recycled content building products are made of materials which are recovered from consumer or industrial waste streams. It is important to note that recycled content has no negative effect on performance of the products.

Benefits of recycled content materials include reduced solid waste, reduced energy and water use, reduced pollution, reduced green house gas emissions, and a healthier economy. Yes, a healthier economy: Every 15,000 tons of solid waste recycled creates nine jobs, while sending same amount of waste to a landfill provides only one job, using recycled content materials supports companies that make the effort to produce environmentally preferable products.

LEED MR 4.1 & 4.2: Recycled content as per IGBC New Construction

The project team should specify materials which have high recycled content and it is the responsibility of the architect, interior designer and the contractor.

Source : 3-form.com Source : vetrazzo.com

The intent of the credit MR 4.1-4.2 is to “increase demand for building products that incorporated recycled content materials, therefore reducing impacts resulting from extraction and processing of new virgin materials”.

The calculations are as follows: The product contains recycled content which can be of 2 categories. Post consumer: Products that have passed through the consumer hands such as plastic bottles and cans. Post industrial: Byproducts from a manufacturing process that do no reach the consumer, for example fly ash from thermal power plants.

equation 1: Total Recycled Content value

=

equation 2: Total Recycled Content value

equation 3: Assembly Recycled

=

=

Material Cost [rs] x Recycled Content [%]

Sum of Post Consumer Recycled Content [rs] +0.5 Sum of Post Industrial Recycled Content [rs]

(material weight [lbs/kg] x recycled content [%])

equation 4: Recycled Content [%] =

total weight [lbs/kg]

Points awarded under IGBC LEED New Construction, version 1.0 Points Awarded 1 2

Recycled Content 10 % 20 %

Exemplary performance 30% or above “recycled content” in terms of total construction material cost will earn an exemplary credit under innovation & design.

recycled content value [rs] Total Material Cost [rs]

Submittal documents: • • • •

Complete igbc nc template calculations showing recycled content, sample shown in table calculations showing recycled content of an assembly Manufacturer‘s specifications / cut sheets, highlighting type (post consumer or post industrial) and amount of recycled content.

Source : 3-form.com

25

Points to note : • Mechanical and electrical components shall not be included in this calculation • Total building material cost can be taken as 45% of total construction cost, but ensure this value is used consistently in all LEED credits requiring this value.

Products taken in mr credit 4 recycled content, cannot be used in the following credits : 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

MR Credit 1: MR Credit 2: MR Credit 3: MR Credit 6: MR Credit 7:

Building reuse Construction waste management Resource reuse Rapidly renewable materials Certified wood

Certificates . . .

Source: 3-form.com

i

FIRM OF THE MONTH to be GREEN

C.R.NARAYANA RAO “Designing and Constructing buildings under Green Principles conserves resources, is eco-friendly and protects the environment while taking care of health and safety aspects of the occupants. It causes least disturbances to the surrounding areas and in the long run benefits the Society as a whole. Hence ‘Going Green’ is not a matter of choice in future buildings but should be a Way of Life.”



-Mr.C.N.Raghavendran, Partner

Sustainable Development is good business practice from the social, economic and environmental perspective and has become an inevitable reality at all levels of economic integration raising huge challenges for sustainable management of the environment and natural resources. Given that the world is challenged by a changing climate, biodiversity loss, abject poverty and environmental degradation, Sustainable Development is the only way we can make a difference.

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HISTORY of CRN C. R. Narayana Rao (CRN) is a reputed firm of Architects and Engineers based in Chennai. Founded in 1945, CRN has been a major player in designing the urban landscape in India and cities across the world. Offering extensive services ranging from comprehensive design to construction management, CRN has conceptualized and executed diverse projects of various magnitudes world over. The firm's overseas experience includes assignments in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, UAE, Zambia, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Mauritius and Guyana. The birth, development and founders of a market leader. Founded in 1945 by the late C. R. Narayana Rao, the firm has contributed significantly to the changing landscape of the country. It has also appropriately altered its services to cater to the growing needs of the architectural industry. The first three decades of the firm's existence coincided with industrialization in India. CRN is proud to have partnered with several industries that were born during this period. CRN developed its expertise in industrial architecture, specifically the Automobile, Auto Ancillary Units, Textile and Sugar Industries in association with prestigious names like Dunlop, Amalgamations Group, TI Group, Ashok Leyland, Ennore Foundries & Rane Group of Industries. The early 70s saw CRN consolidate its activities in the industrial sector with the TVS Group, Madras Fertilizers, MRF and educational institutions, thus expanding its design and project expertise. At that time, CRN established its practice in the Middle East. CRN's overseas branch at UAE was an active participant in the growth of the U.A.E, successfully executing several commercial, industrial & housing projects in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Ras Al Khamiah. Since the beginning of the 90s, CRN made its presence strongly felt in the Sports Facilities sector having designed at least six Sports Stadia for major sporting events, all conforming to International Standards. The changing economy of the mid 90s saw the explosion of Information Technology and influx of Multinational clients into the country. Both the MNCs and leading Indian IT companies began to build and expand campuses across the country. At this time, Multi-tenanted IT parks became a phenomenon and standing testimony to its leadership in the area is CRN's Marquee Project in TIDEL Park, Chennai. The many Sustainable Building Features incorporated in the Design of this IT Park, shows CRN's leadership & commitment to preserving the Environment for the future much before any Code or Rating System came into existence in the Indian context with reference to Sustainability. CRN was quick to adopt design and engineering practices to cater to the specific nuances and demands of this Sector. It has since designed and continues to design campuses and buildings for all the top Indian and Multinational IT / ITES companies. Today CRN stands as a monument of trust that integrates related areas of architecture to offer clients a superior experience at every stage in the lifecycle of a project, from conceptualization through execution to delivery.

LEADERS at CRN

the people who have led the way for the growth & green CRN has always believed in its people. Each of its partners and associates are highly qualified in their respective areas of expertise and provide that unique touch of style in every project that they undertake. CRN is currently managed by the second generation, Dr.C.N.Srinivasan and Mr.C.N.Raghavendran, who have proven their mettle as premier architects in the country. They are also sitting members of various Indian Standards Bodies, and have been published in leading international and national Technical Journals and Design Magazines.

DR. C. N. SRINIVASAN An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur did his Masters in Structural Engineering from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champagne, US. He is also a Doctorate holder from the Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai. A member of many Technical Bodies & Committees, he is the Recipient of the prestigious 'JAWAHARLAL NEHRU GOLD MEDAL' from the Institution of Engineers for a Paper on 'Apex Exercise in Engineering' in the year 1972. He has to his credit designed many Green Certified Buildings in the region.

MR.C.N.RAGHAVENDRAN Completed his Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur then went on to do Master of Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, U.S.A. in 1967. He is a member of several Professional Bodies and also active in Academics as Member of Governing Council of National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, India. He is also the Chairman of Chennai Chapter of CII-Indian Green Building Council (CII-IGBC)- LEED India, a committee to Indianize the Green Building rating for Energy Efficient Buildings in India.

C.N.Raghavendran is a Recipient of: • Indian Institute of Architects award for 'Excellence in Design' for Public Building category for the project of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at Chennai - 1995 • Prestigious "Architect of the Year -1996" Award from the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India on all India basis. • Recipient of CW TOP ARCHITECTS & BUILDERS AWARD - 2007 by Construction World for being selected as one among India's Top Ten Architects. • He was responsible for the Design of 'Ebene Cyber Tower at Mauritius', which was awarded Intelligent Building of the Year 2005' by the US based Research Organisation called 'Intelligent Community Forum' (ICF)

WE STILL MAKE LEATHER BAGS USING THE SAME PROCESS ITALIANS ABANDONED YEARS AGO. QUITTERS.

Not everyone’s as obsessed with leather. Not everyone cares enough to knot each stitched end. Because not everyone cares whether a bag keeps its shape for years. That’s why, we encourage you to take your time before deciding which Hidesign bag you’d like to buy. After all, it’s taken us long enough to put it on the shelf.

PHILOSOPHY & FUTURE

design principles and dedication to green

Green building practices offer an opportunity to create environmentally sound and resource efficient buildings by using an integrated approach to design. Green buildings promote resource conservation, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation features. They consider environmental impacts including waste minimization; create a healthy and comfortable environment; reduce operation and maintenance costs; and address issues such as historical preservation, access to public transportation and other community infrastructure systems. The entire life-cycle of the building and its components is considered, as well as its economic and environmental impact and performance. Design, construction, and maintenance of buildings have a tremendous impact on our environment and our natural resources. The challenge will be to build them smart, so they maximize the usage of non renewable energy sources produce minimum pollution, and cost a minimum, while increasing the comfort, health & safety of the people who live and work in them. Inherent in CRN's Design Philosophy is its focus on understanding the interrelationships between the building, its components, its surroundings, and its occupants, with a view to avoid consuming more resources than necessary; negative impact on the environment and generating large amounts of waste. Its prime Design Goal has & continues to be to achieve high levels of building performance showing efficiency in water, energy & building resource management while providing the best indoor environment. To ensure this approach in Design & Construction, CRN launches on a project by bringing together all stakeholders under a common roof at the early Concept / Pre-design stage so as to identify these focus areas and set goals that are reviewed periodically to ensure compliance of set standards both in Design & Implementation.

we have many miles to go, but have started with the first step As aptly captured in Mr. Raghavendran’s quote “Going Green is a Way of Life” one cannot but overemphasize the need to be Environmentally Conscious given the rapidly changing Environment & Climate needing to be addressed with a “Sense of Emergency”. In line with this, CRN has and continues to promote Green & Sustainable Buildings & Architecture in all its projects. Rating Systems & Certification are incidental but the basic tenet of embracing Green Principles in Design through Execution to Delivery has been their approach. As a measure of its seriousness to enhance in-house expertise in Sustainable Design, is Sushma Patankar, an Associate, being a LEED Accredited Professional of the US Green Building Council. Given the growing awareness in the market to Sustainable Development, availability of Green Building Technologies and Materials, the Indian Charter through not for profit organizations such as Indian Green Building Council and the several programs of the Government including through Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the market & CRN are poised to address the Needs and Challenges of the industry in the years to come.

GREEN PROJECTS

showcasing exemplary design & construction in green

Building Type: Multi Tenanted IT park with Mall, Location: Mumbai, Area: 17,00,000 SqFt This Project to be executed in two phases has just completed its first phase measuring 1.7 Million Sqft. of built-up area. A Multi-tenanted landmark building located in the upcoming IT hub of Mumbai, is owned and developed by HCC, a leading Construction Company. This 60+M tall building from ground level houses a helipad on the roof top. Three towers extend above the common podium, that has commercial space provided with ample covered car parking. The Site and traffic movement have been zoned to cater to different types of users and has been segregated as per usage.

Green Features of 247 Park

1. Building Orientation * Optimized building orientation to reduce solar heat gain while providing ample daylighting. 2. High performance building envelope * Over deck roof insulation to reduce solar heat ingress into the building. * Use of high performance glass with low U value and Shading Co-efficient. * More than 85% of roof area provided with China Mosaic to enhance solar reflectivity. 3. Parking Provisions * Preferred Parking locations, charging facilities for parking slots. * Designated car pooling spaces to encourage ride sharing. 4. Zero discharge water system * Storm Water Management and Rain Water Harvesting. * Sewage Treatment Plant. * Centralised water treatment facility. * Recycled water for gardening, flushing and cooling tower make up. 5. Use of materials * With High recycled content. * That were locally manufactured. * Sourced from rapidly renewable sources such as MDF with FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Certification. 6. Advanced HVAC System providing superior occupant comfort including * Equipment chosen to adhere to CFC reduction standards. * Provision of Co2 monitors to control its levels within occupied spaces. 7. Use of low-VOC paints, carpets and composite wood products.

GREEN PROJECTS

showcasing exemplary design & construction in green

infosys jaipur campus

Building Type : BPO Facility, Location : Jaipur, Rajasthan, Area : 2.9 Lakh SqFt The Infosys BPO Campus at Jaipur is built in a site area of 42 Acres. The proposed development of the entire campus consists of 5 BPO buildings, 3 Food courts and 500 rooms ECC along with all the utility buildings. The campus is designed to accommodate a total of 12,100 employees with an overall built-up area of 14, 05, 000 sq.ft. with a plot coverage of 20%. The actual construction has been planned to be phased out. Phase I construction includes BPO-1, Food Court-1 and the utility buildings. BPO-1 building's total area is 2, 90,000 sq.ft. This building is G+4 structure, with a capacity of 3320 persons. The building foot print is approximately 54,000 Sqft.

Some of the Green Features of the Infosys Jaipur Campus 1. Alternate transportation systems including battery vehicles. 2. Open landscaped space more than the building footprint. 3. Shading of the roads, walkways and car park areas. 4. High reflective roof to reduce heat ingress from the roof. 5. No potable water used for the entire landscaping. 6. High efficiency and low flow water fixtures. 7. 2.5 lakhs units per annum through Photovoltaic Cell. 8. Materials of high recycled content products & manufactured regionally. 9. Specific use of rapidly renewable materials. 10. FSC certified wood products. 11. Increased outdoor air ventilation rates and Co2 monitoring. 12. Use of low VOC adhesives and sealants, paints, and carpets. 13. Insulation in walls and Over deck Insulation on roof. 14. High performance glazing. 15. Energy efficient lighting design & Occupancy Sensors. 16. Energy Efficient VFD Water Cooled Screw Chillers. 17. Variable air volume systems. Air Handling Units with VFD. 18. Primary and secondary chilled water pumps with VFD. 19. Air Economizer & Heat Recovery Systems. 20. Double stage evaporative pre-cooling system.

Green Homes... the future of living, but the requirement is now A home can be anywhere you live -- your home may be a mansion by the sea, or a small studio apartment, or an igloo. For some, home can be an abandoned warehouse on Mahatma Gandhi Road or a mega-apartment jungle designed by an architect from New York.

"Home is where the heart is and a safe & pleasant place to be. Poor or rich, no children or a dozen children, adults have the control to make any place a good home.”

“Green Home” as defined by the US Green Building Council : “A green home incorporates smart design, technology, construction and maintenance elements to significantly lessen the negative impact of the home on the environment and improve the health of the people who live inside.”

Green Homes in India: Why is this so important? It is our responsibility, as residents of India, to look beyond the old paradigm and look at our home, in a broader context and more cognizant way. Our homes not only affect our lives, but affect the world around us. A simple step towards a more holistic lifestyle can have compounded effects on our environment. The population of our country has crossed the 1 billion mark and the energy used by the residential sector is 22% of India’s total energy consumption, the energy requirement becomes staggering. A majority of this power comes from coal and oil; both having severe negative impact on the environment. While the economic growth, the development of the housing sector has also flourished. The most critical issue is if this growth is sustainable and has a minimum negative impact on the environment.

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A blessing for home owners, A gold mine for developers… The Home Buyers are Looking for apartments which consume less energy, offer more daylight, have more recreational spaces and a great indoor air quality … and that’s what distinguishes a Green Home. The Growth Potential of Green Homes is Amazing because 75% to 80 % of the real estate demand comes from the residential sector. Developers like Mahindra Lifespaces and Aliens Group took the chance and came up with a completely new definition of residential buildings. These include climate appropriate design, building materials with recycled content, water saving fixtures, VOC free paints, and an energy saving building envelope additional to green areas which help create a healthy environment. A Green Home Doesn’t Cost Much More than a regular design but it has a much better market value. Green Homes will approximately cost 3% to 5% more than conventional building constructions. The payback period for the higher investment is around 3 years and will be recovered through the energy & water savings. State Bank of India gives Incentives for Loans of GREEN HOMES (certified by IGBC). The upfront margin will be lower at 15 per cent of the loan amount instead of the normal 20 per cent; interest rate on the loan will be 25 basis points lower than the card rate additionally to all that green home owners don’t have to pay any processing fee for the loan at SBI. (Sources: State Bank of India www.sbi.co.in)

Benifits of Green Homes:

10% to 30% energy savings over conventional homes Increased water savings, around 30% to 50% Toxin free materials for better indoor air quality Increased use of regional materials & products with recycled content Promotes use of daylight CFC free equipment Reduces/eliminates negative environmental impact Enhance marketability for the project IGBC Green Homes Health & wellbeing of the occupants Rating System 101 Conservation of scarce national resources

Green Projects in India :

• • • • • • • • • •

Mahindra Splendour, Mumbai Pre-certified Platinum IGBC Green Homes, Mahindra Lifespaces www.mahindralifespaces.in

Palais Royal, Mumbai Pre-certified Platinum IGBC Green Homes,

Aliens Space Station 1, Hyderabad Pre-certified Platinum IGBC Green Homes, Aliens Group www.aliensgroup.in

IGBC Green Homes Rating System

101 R

Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Green Homes is the first rating programme developed in India, exclusively for the residential sector. It is based on accepted energy and environmental principles and strikes a balance between known established practices and emerging concepts. The system is designed to be comprehensive in scope, yet simple in operation. A Green Home can have tremendous benefits, both tangible and intangible. The immediate and most tangible benefit is the reduction in water consumption and operating energy costs right from day one.

Introduction to the Green Homes Rating System IGBC Green Homes is bases on the LEED New Construction and LEED Homes but has been modified to reflect residential architecture and construction in India and our culture. National priorities are addressed in Green Homes, water and energy efficiency play a big role next to reduced use of fossil fuels and virgin materials, also handling of house hold waste and well being of occupants is a criteria. Like in all LEED rating systems certifications levels from certified over silver and gold upto platinum are achievable for projects which are reducing the negative environmental impacts. The IGBC Green Homes can be applied for projects with Interiors where the maximum achievable points are 80, or for projects without interiors with maximum 75 points.

Chart showing point distribution and weightage for Green Homes Captive Power Generation 5 %

Refrigerators 4 %

The rating system consists of 6 categories and 9 prerequisites. Credit points can be earned under Site Selection and Planning , Water efficiency, Energy efficiency, Materials, Indoor Environmental Quality and Innovation & Design Process. The diagram illustrates the importance of each category, and shows that Energy and Water Efficiency together cover more than half of the total 80 Points.

Energy Metering 4%

Efficient luminaries & lighting power density 5% Energy saving Measures in other Appliances & Equipment 5%

Point distribution and weightage for Energy related credits

A step by step guide, To get your new Home certified Eligibility

The IGBC Green Homes Rating System is a measurement system designed for rating new residential buildings which includes construction categories such as Individual homes, High rise residential apartments, Gated communities and Row houses. Existing residential buildings which retrofit and redesigned in accordance with the IGBC Green Homes criteria.

Registration

Project teams interested with the IGBC Green Homes Certification for their project must first register with IGBC. Registration is the initial step which helps establish contact with the IGBC and provides access to the required documents, templates, important communications and other necessary information. To register your project visit IGBC Green Homes registration page.

Certification

Once the project has been registered under the IGBC Green Homes rating system, the project design must ensure that the requirements of the rating system are met. The project team will be expected to provide supporting documents for each stage of submission for all the mandatory requirements and the credits attempted. Supporting documents are those which provide specific proof of meeting the required performance level - such specifications, drawings (in pdf / jpeg format only) , cut sheets, manufacturer’s literature, purchase invoices and other documents. After the design submissions, review is done by third party assessors and review comments would be provided after 40 working days, after which the rating is awarded.

Fees

Single Family: Net Living Space Area (NLA)

Multi Family: Registration

Cer tification

Less than 1,200 sqft

Rs 10,000

Rs 15,000

1,201 to 3,800 sqft

Rs 10,000

Rs 25,000

3,801 to 7,500 sqft

Rs 10,000

Rs 8 per sqft

7,501 to 15,000 sqft

Rs 15,000

Rs 9 per sqft

Net Living Space Area (NLA) Founding Members

Less than 50,000 sqft Rs 2.90 Lacs

Other members

Rs 3.25 Lacs

Non-members

Rs 3.35 Lacs

Certification levels Projects with Interiors

Projects without Interiors

Cer tification Level

Points

Cer tification Level

Points

Certified

32 – 39

Certified

30 – 36

Silver

40 – 47

Silver

37 – 44

Gold

48 – 59

Gold

45 – 55

Platinum

60 – 80

Platinum

56 – 75

50,000 to 5,00,000 sqft Rs 2.90 Lacs plus Rs 0.25 per sqft Rs 3.25 Lacs plus Rs 0.30 per sqft Rs 3.35 Lacs plus Rs 0.30 per sqft

More than 5,00,000 sqft Rs 5.00 Lacs Rs 5.65 Lacs Rs 5.75 Lacs

Source Information is Indian Green Building Council. Website : www.igbc.in

Cooling with Heat Absorption Cooling Here in India we almost forget that heat is a great energy source. In the summer time we are fighting with the heat, trying to keep it out of our offices and homes. The good news is that there is a way to use heat for cooling of our rooms. Absorption cooling is the technology behind these chillers which are driven by heat and not by electricity like all our commonly used air-conditioning devices. The potential of that technology is enormous and cooling of air is in most of the cases responsible for the biggest share of the buildings energy consumption.

Absorption Cooling

The global power crises, a move towards distributed power and environment concerns of CFCs, HCFCs and CO2 emissions, made Absorption Cooling to a viable alternative to conventional electrical machines. Absorption cooling has many advantages over conventional electric cooling equipment. • • • • • •

Operation on heat energy with significantly lower operating costs Negligible maintenance with correspondingly lower downtime costs Noiseless operation and suitable for several environments Lower life cycle costs compared to electrical machines Uses water instead of greenhouse gases as a refrigerant No moving parts and so inherent reliability increases

Low-grade energy sources like waste heat substantially reduce the cost of operation and making absorption machines the most viable option for cooling. These machines are eco-friendly as they do not use synthetic refrigerants like CFCs/HCFCs, instead, they use water as the refrigerant.

The illustration shows the working principle of Absorption cooling compared to conventional (compression) Cooling. It can be seen that only the part of the Compressor differs. The electrical driven Compressor for conventional cooling performs the same function as the thermal Compressor consisting of Generator and Absorber - for Absorption Cooling. Heat (Q) and Power (W) inputs as well as outputs are shown as arrows. The schematic on this side is connected to the diagram on the right which is showing the cooling process as a cycle of heating, cooling, gaining energy and transferring energy.

Refrigeration Refrigeration is a process of extracting heat from a low temperature medium and transferring it to a high temperature heat sink. Refrigeration maintains the temperature of the heat source below that of its surroundings while transferring the extracted heat to a heat sink. The energy source may be steam or hot water, or it may even be waste heat like in exhaust gases from an engine (gas or oil based). In the Absorption Chilling Technology Vapour Absorption Chillers derive energy from hot water to provide the desired chilling effect. These chillers can achieve chilled water temperature down to 40°F by making use of the hot water at a low temperature (158 to 230°F).

The Cogenie by Thermax The Cogenie, absorption chiller, represents a culmination of Thermax’s global expertise in energy and environment, continuous innovation through focused Research and Development, world-class manufacturing capabilities, efficient and responsive service and a deep commitment to quality and reliability. Testimony to this is provided by over 2500 installations in the last 15 years across 40 countries.

How does it work? The machine makes use of two principles: 1. When a liquid evaporates, it absorbs heat, and when it condenses it gives up that heat. That heat is known as latent heat. The same way our body cools itself by sweating. When we feel hot, the skin gets wet and the evaporating water cools the body temperature down. 2. The second principle is that the boiling point of a liquid depends on the pressure. Water has it’s boiling point at 100°C at atmospheric pressure on sea level, but the lower the pressure the lower the boiling point. The name “absorption cooling”, describes the process that one medium gets absorbed by a second one. This can take place with water and ammonia or with Lithium Bromide and water – these are the substances which are widely used for the purpose of absorption cooling.

Temperatuature

Stages of compression, condensation, expansion and evaporation of the refrigerant are shown in the diagram. The phase change from vapor to liquid is illustrated in here. Through the different stages of cooling the refrigerant changes it’s temperature, pressure & enthalpy. Enthalpy

39

Generator

Refrigerant (gaseous)

Condenser

How

in

Cooling water out

out

Hot water in (gaseous)

1. In the generator the absorbent solution is mixed with refrigerant - both are liquid. These two chemicals have a different boiling point. Heat brings the refrigerant to boil and turn to the gas phase; it is getting desorbed from the absorbing solution which remains liquid. The refrigerant vapour released in the generator flows to the condenser.

Liquid Refrigerant

Absorption Cooling 2. In the condenser cooling water is

circulated through the coils, which picks up the heat carried by the refrigerant vapour and vapour condenses back to the liquid phase. The condensed liquid is now flowing to the evaporator...

About Thermax: Thermax is an engineering major providing energy-environment solutions, systems and products in global markets. The $ 320 million Thermax is featured in the Forbes List of 'Best Under a Billion' Companies in the Asia Pacific. It offers business - to - business solutions to industrial and commercial establishments in the areas of heating, cooling, captive power, water treatment, air pollution control, waste management & resource recovery, and chemicals. It supports a wide spectrum of industry in over 50 countries in South East Asia and Japan, Africa and Middle East, CIS countries, USA, South America and Europe. Leveraging its leadership position in electricity saving vapour absorption technology, these eco-friendly, energy efficient equipments have found prestigious customers such as BBC, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Bosch, Henry Ford Museum. Thermax promotes Lithium Bromide Vapor Absorption Machines (VAMs) as a cost effective alternative to electricity driven compression chillers. These machines find application in variety of industries as well as commercial buildings for Process cooling and Air-conditioning. The absorption chillers offer outlet temperature down to 0 deg C which is a rare feat achieved by Thermax in the industry. As a global player, Thermax has singularly focussed on improving absorption cooling technology from the twin angles of reliability and efficiency.Thermax expertise in integrating energy systems to provide total solution to the customer gives it a cutting edge over other players. “Our experience with process heat and variety of fuels help us customise the vapor absorption machines which match with overall energy system of the customers. In alignment with our motto of conserving energy and preserving the environment, Thermax chillers are eco-firendly & dont use harmful refrigerants like CFCs & HCFCs” THERMAX

3. In the Vapour Absorption Chillers, a low pressure (vacuum) is maintained in the evaporator, at this pressure the refrigerant boils at very low temperature. The evaporation causes the refrigerant to absorb heat from the medium being cooled which circulates in the chilled water coils. On absorbing the heat the refrigerant gets vaporised. Concentrated Absorbent Solution

Evaporator

in

Chilled Water

Gaseous Refrigerant

out

works...

out

Cooling Water in

Absorber Absorbent Pump

4. The refrigerant vapour tends to increase the pressure in the vessel. This will increase the boiling temperature and the desired cooling effect could not be obtained. So, it is necessary to remove the refrigerant vapours from the vessel.

5.

A liquid (absorber) having affinity towards the refrigerant vapour is sprayed in the absorber which absorbs the vapour and maintains the low pressure in the shell. To maintain a continuous cycle, it is essential that the absorbent is enriched to its original level of concentration and the refrigerant vapours are condensed back to the liquid. This is achieved by pumping the dilute solution continuously from absorber to the generator.

Cooling with the Sun – The Future of Air-conditioning Absorption cooling machines are driven by hot water with a temperature of 158 to 230°F and this energy can be provided by solar water heaters. Solar collectors will provide the energy during the day time, exactly then when the cooling load in the building is high. For cooling during the night and times with no solar power, storage systems must be installed to guarantee a continues cool air supply. It is important to ensure that the solar collectors can heat up the water to the required level; otherwise the efficiency of the absorption cycle will drop drastically. An air-conditioning system which uses the sun’s energy is not only a great achievement for the environment, it also saves running costs. The drawback of a solar cooling system is the initial higher cost for the cooling technology and the solar power. Also the required space for solar collectors cannot be ignored. Absorption cooling systems combined with solar heat may seem costly in the beginning, but considering the rising energy prices it can work out as a clever investment. For factories and industries absorption cooling is the best way to use waste heat. A lot of processes create high temperatures which have to be cooled down with use of cooling water or electricity for refrigeration. In hot water driven chillers the waste heat can be used to create cooling energy, what will lead to high energy reduction and financial savings. With the courtesy of Thermax we were able to publish this article. For more details of Thermax and Absorbtion cooling please visit their website www.thermax.in

The 2009 Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment Report

Image Source: Iris von Knobelsdorff

is considered by many to be the most authoritative appraisal of clean energy investment trends, and is being released during one of the worst financial and economic crises for a generation with sharply rising unemployment in many parts of the globe...

Several Economies have embarked multi billion dollar investments in clean energy. Governments, industries and private investors have realized that the “Green Economy” is an area of potential growth which has already begun and will become more and more relevant and applicable in the near future. 2008 was the first year that new power generation investment in renewable energy was greater than investment in fossil fuelled technologies. The new installed 40 GW power of renewable energy plants in 2008 together with the 25 GW of new large hydropower stations represents 41% of the total new global capacity. The investment for power generation from renewable was 140 billion dollar (including large hydropower), the fossil fuelled technologies were only given an investment of 110 billion dollar. There is still a long way to a global green energy-mix, because the power generation of renewable energy only accounts for 6.2 % of the total power sector capacity.

China leads the investment in Asia with 15.6 billion dollars of new investment, mostly in new wind projects and biomass plants. India’s investment of 3.7 billion dollars in 2008 seems rather small compared to China’s investment, but it grew 12 % compared to the previous year. Wind attracted the highest new investment, confirming its status as the most mature and best established sustainable energy technology. Solar makes the largest gains while bio-fuel investment shifts towards next generation technologies. The solar sector grew 49% in 2008, when compared to the previous year. Investments of 33.5 billion dollar in solar technology may soon catch up with the 51.8 billion dollar investment in wind power. The driving forces of the sustainable energy sector climate change, energy insecurity, fossil fuel depletion and new technologies becoming stronger and stronger, leading us to use and install more sustainable energy.

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"There have been many milestones reached in recent years, but this report suggests renewable energy has now reached a tipping point where it is as important – if not more important -in the global energy mix than fossil fuels," Achim Steiner, executive director of the UN's Environment Programme

The global trend shows an extraordinary growth in renewable energy investment, with every subsequent year. The figures underline the great trend to go GREEN, sustainable energy market had grown from $ 148 billion in 2007 to $ 155 billion in 2008 (5% Growth).

For more details on the report visit the website of the United Nations Environment Programme www.unep.org. The mission of the United Nations Environment Programme is to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and people to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Financial New Investment (By Region, 2002-2008) in USD billions

Source : New Energy Finance, UNEP SEFI Note : New investment volume adjusts for reinvested equity. The total value include estimates for undisclosed deals

The source for the information is “The 2009 Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment Report”. This report is based on the output of the Desktop database of New Energy Finance, an online portal to the world’s most comprehensive database of investors, projects and transactions.

According to the “Global Trends Report 2009” India has connected 3 GW of renewable energy power plants to the grid, where the most came from wind energy. The government sets the goal for clean development high and wants to see 17.2 GW of renewable energy contributing to the grid 2012. There was no solar project with grid connection commissioned in 2008, but the predictions for 2009 are speaking about 222 MW of solar power. Nearly 347 million dollars of investment went towards manufacturer facilities of semiconductors for photovoltaic. The electricity in India comes from 66 % coal, 14 % large hydro, 3 % from nuclear and 5.2 % from renewable sources, per the official data for 2008. The need for energy is growing day by day and the grid infrastructure is overloaded from the increasing demand of industry, rapidly developing middle-class and the connection of rural areas to the electricity grid. India’s rural electrification scheme (launched in 2005) can show successful installation of nearly four million small biogas plants, 70,000 solar street lights and 435,000 solar home lighting systems.

Sustainable Energy In India

Installed projects are mostly owned by corporate who are seeking tax benefits and an additional power source for their needs. Due to that the government announced an optional Generation Based Incentive (GBI) for wind power in 2008, which should boost larger projects by independent power producers. The policy for the solar sector aims to another direction, and promises a national feed-in tariff for solar power projects of $ 240/MWh (around 10,000 RS) for PV and $ 200/MWh for solar thermal. Unfortunately this policy covers only 50 MW total nationally, but in some states supplemental feed-in tariffs are available. Some Indian states have renewable portfolio policy of between 2% and 10% and are dictating the percentage of power purchased by distribution companies from renewable sources. Maharashtra fined distribution companies who did not meet the 5 % of renewable portfolio standards in 2008 as first state in India. Maharashtra will also be the site of a pilot renewable energy certification trading scheme in the second half of 2009.

Installed Renewable Energy Capacity & Targets in India

Source : New Energy Finance, MNRE

NEW APPRAOCH TO SOLAR AND WIND POWER It’s a hybrid energy delivery device that derives power from the sun and wind, and draws inspiration from ivy growing on a building.

GROW’s unique design incorporates a combination of photovoltaic and piezoelectric technologies in one system that can adapt to different building typologies, programmatic demands and regional climates. GROW’s application, Source : s-m-i-t.com

Grow 1

It’s designed to utilize emerging technology of the photovoltaic and piezo industry. Based on a modular brick system, it’s composed of a small number of different parts. Each brick has 5 solar leaves which have a Grow 1 View from beneath, Source : s-m-i-t.com very flexible piezo generator at their stem. The manufacturing of these bricks happens in a roll to roll printing process where PV, conductive ink, and piezo generators can be layered quickly and efficiently. Each brick is designed so that at the end of their life cycle the valuable components, i.e. photovoltaic and piezo, can be stamped out and up cycled while the material (i.e. plastic) is reused. 

Grow 2 It’s a flexible system that can adapt to most building types. Available in varying degrees of opacity to modulate heat gain, light transmission and view. These leaves are made of 100% recyclable polyethylene, and are available in a variety of colors and opacities. It Grow 2 View from wall, Source : s-m-i-t.com consists of a structural stainless steel mesh system. The solar cell is a thin film flexible, photovoltaic module encapsulated in Tefzel - a fluorocarbon based  polymer. Modular design enables easy support and update in case of the leaf’s failure. Using a life-cycle analysis (LCA), GROW has utilized recycled and reclaimed materials wherever possible and insures that at the end of its lifespan, sustainable methods of recycling and reclamation will be carried out to minimize its environmental and resource footprint. All iterations of GROW incorporate an intuitive energy monitoring system allowing both SMIT and end users to have a one-to-one relationship with their energy output, while enabling the ability to track and fine-tune the performance of GROW’s wind and solar energy production.

Architectural Applications GROW is a flexible system that can adapt to different building typologies, programmatic demands, and regional climates. SMIT's first product will be a solar-only version of GROW. The modular 'panel' would be approximately 4' X 8 ' and can be installed on most residential building types. It uses standard grid-tie hardware that allows easy integration with the typical building's existing electrical service provider.

Source : s-m-i-t.com

Public Taipeh Concert Hall, Taiwan

Green Living Walls Vertical gardens, living walls, sustainable art, green walls. Patrick Blanc the inventor of “Vertical Gardens” grows plants on the wall since 20 years. Born in Paris in 1953, Patrick is an award winning scientist. He worked on various projects with famous architects like Jean Nouvel and designed Vertical Gardens like Caixa Forum, Madrid and French Embassy in Delhi, India. He is also an author of books on Vertical Gardens.

There are two different systems which will bring your wall to life: Modular panel systems and climbing plants. Around the world historic buildings are covered with vegetation, creepers like wild wine and ivy or moss. Architects didn’t plan it like this, but it gives a special charm to the building. If you want to cover your building with climbing plants it may take a few years or decades… that’s the reason why Green panels are used to make walls of new buildings vegetated. The plants are pre-grown before they get installed on the wall. More than a dozen of plants are in one panel, and a lot of panels together will form a green wall. The panels get fixed on a metal structure and connected with a drip irrigation system. So your wall will be green on the first day itself!

Rue d’Alsace, Paris, France.

Types of green “living” walls

? Most of the times we only see plants, trees and shrubs growing on the ground, but there area lot of plants which are growing on vertical surfaces in nature. Creepers capture old tree trunks; vertical slopes are covered from greenery and even on rocks and cliffs plants find a way to grow.

Pont Juvenal, Aix-en-Provence, France

How can plants grow on the wall

Vegetation does not need soil; it only needs water with dissolved minerals, light and carbon dioxide to grow – nothing else. For the purpose of a green wall the soil would make the whole construction too heavy, that’s why materials like felt are used to build a surface for the plants to grow. The materials used for Green Walls are mould resistant, long lasting and have a great ability to distribute the water to the plants.

The technology and implementation behind the wall

Caixa Forum, Madrid, Spain

Grow plants without soil…

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To grow plants on the wall is not as easy as it looks. The combination of different plants must be chosen carefully. Their ability to remove toxins from the air, water and lighting needs can vary. A planting medium what is resistant against mould, holds the plants in place and let air to the roots must be chosen. For the irrigation of the wall a lot of small drip irrigation systems are used. The schematic design of a green wall is illustrated here.

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Irrigation on the wall The irrigation system of a green wall is hidden behind the panels; it is made out of small pipes which supply water directly to the plants. Every company has its own system for water management. Patrick Blanc the inventor of “Vertical Gardens” says that a regularly water supply is the secret behind every long lasting Green wall. If the roots of the plants have no shortage of water they will spread on the surface of the wall, but as soon as the roots of the plants are dry, the roots will search for water, what means that they can even destroy the wall construction within a few years. Minerals and fertilizers can be added to the water to ensure the health of the plants.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Steel Structure Irrigation System Panel system Growing Medium Supporting Material Plants

Nature is a model and inspiration for a lot of inventions. The same way low growing plants and moss protect the soil, from extreme temperatures, sun rays and erosion, the building envelope should be protected from direct solar radiation. Energy savings through thermal insulation & an attention grabbing façade are some of the many reasons to consider a green exterior wall. Is the air you breathe polluted from combustion of cars, filtered from the airconditioning system or is it air full of oxygen when you take a walk in a wildlife area? To build with non-toxic materials, use low-VOC paint and have a high fresh air rate is a way to keep a good air quality in the room, but there is still a way to boost the activity of the occupants and create health benefits. Just add oxygen and remove the carbon dioxide and you have improved the indoor air quality dramatically! The easiest way to increase the oxygen level is to bring more plants into the building. Green panels full with oxygen producing plants can also act as air filter for toxins.

Why you should consider a vertical garden in your design. When used on indoor walls it improves the air quality and acts like an air filter. The air should be ventilated through the wall construction for maximum benefit. The roots and the planting material will be a natural filter for toxins in the air. Additional to filtering of the air, the plants add oxygen to the air, which improves the health and productivity of occupants. A green wall saves floor space: If you just plant your grass on the wall rather than on the ground. As the prices for land go higher and higher the area of open and vegetated space gets small. By growing plants on the wall you help to create a natural habitat and peasants will appreciate the great atmosphere. For aesthetics and health benefits. Do you remember a walk in the forest or in a nice park? The air is full of oxygen, the green colour calms you down and you feel full of energy, so bring the park to the wall of your building or even into the building with the same effect of a walk in the forest. The green wall provides sound insulation. Big rooms with plain walls usually have bad acoustics. So you can install expensive acoustic panels or just get green panels. It reduces your energy consumption. Depending on what planting material is used the green wall on the exterior wall of the building will contribute to the energy efficiency of the building envelope. Not only does the material act like wall insulation, it also protects from solar radiation that would heat up your wall construction. The vegetated façade acts like a big evaporative cooler for the whole façade. The plants help you to achieve several LEED credits. Astra Zeneca, Sweden Michael Hellgren’s Sustainable Art Source: www.verticalgardendesign.com

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Green Living Wall – Westfield. Source: ELT India Enterprise

Send your Garden

Up the wall

ELT Easy Green™ Living

Concept of light weight roof and vertical gardens in India ELT Easy Green living wall system, being both practical and efficient is revolutionizing the landscape and green building industry. The specifically designed irrigation system, use of gravitational force and easy mounting, facilitates easy maintenance. The fact that the HDPE modules do not require constant irrigation, and at the end of their life are 100% recyclable distinctly pronounces the system's sustainable properties.

ELT Easy Green® Living Wall Panels Each panel consists of 45 individual cells. Each cell has notches in the bottom surface of the cell to allow aeration. The notches do not extend completely to the back of the cell; this provides a water retention zone in each cell reducing the irrigation requirements. A chamber at the top of the panel collects water from the irrigation emitter line and directs it into the panel cells. Each panel has a horizontal support channel formed into the back to carry and disperse the weight evenly across the panel. Wall Panel Cells. Source: ELT India Enterprise

Wall Panel Cells Source: ELT India Enterprise

Material The material used for the panel is Ultra Violet ray resistant 100% recyclable black HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) the choice of HDPE is for its recyclability and long life. It is one of the few plastics that can be recycled back into itself fully. The black color also means that the plastic will be more UV stable  without as many chemical additives. This material is very resistant to chemicals found in fertilizers ensuring a very long product life span.

Lighting

Plants grown at Wall Panel Source: ELT India Enterprise

Most indoor living walls (with tropical plants) need plenty of natural light to perform optimally. This can be obtained by placing the living wall under a skylight, near a large window or by adding artificial lighting. ELT suggests 1800 LUX on indoor living walls with natural or artificial light. To achieve this light intensity artificially, High Intensity Discharge (HID) or Metal Halide (MH) grow lights can be used.

Nandini Gardens work with nature

Sometime during February 2008 Nandini Gardens came across the concept of light weight roof gardens and also the novel idea of modular vertical gardens. After detailed study of different systems, ELT Easygreen system (from Canada) was selected on the basis of its merits over all other systems with special reference to India's varied climatic conditions. Planting on roofs and walls in the present day is perceived as one of the most innovative and rapidly developing fields in architecture and horticulture.

Source: ELT India Enterprise

Projects in India

Source: ELT India Enterprise

The company Nandini Gardens was formed in 1987 as a nursery for landscape plants. During their works as softscape contractors the company found that the enormous volume of excavation near river bed for the procurement of garden soil was common in every city. For this they have developed a technique of reclaiming the soil existing on the site. This not only helped in avoiding erosion of lands near river beds but also saved costs of clients. The other advantage was reduction in usage of petroleum products and fuel required for excavation and transportation of such soil. The company also noticed that tree cutting is sometimes required to clear the site for constructions or roads. For saving such large trees Nandini Gardens developed and adopted scientific transplanting methods at their sites all over India.

For more information about products and services please contact:

ELT India Enterprise has its research facility located in Pune, where they study the different aspects of green roofs and living Mr Pradeep Barpande walls. ELT India Enterprise Shop No. 9, Nandini Gardens Sunflower Bldg, Baner, Pune 411045 Maharashtra, India. Phone : 020-64168939 Fax : 020-40789643 e-mail: [email protected]

SENSORS Do they really make sense? Does a green building need to look like a spacecraft or something out of sci-fi movie? Does the envelope need to be made of solar panels with wind turbines? Does it involve using mud, and other “eco-friendly” materials? How is a green building different from a conventional building? The simple answer is that a green building is a more intelligent building. This is expressed in building & site design, making choices of materials & fixtures which makes the building more efficient in water & energy reduction and finally has a positive effect on the occupant’s health & productivity.

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The metaphor I would use for this comparison is that of buildings and living organisms. Plants and animals can survive in the most unfriendly

actively adapt to respond to the climate conditions. Their skins, climates, by using one simple principle:

bodies and metabolism are continuously changing to survive in the environment. The only time they stop adapting is when they are dead. Now look at the buildings today. Once

the envelope and core is fixed and for all practical reasons “dead”. The design is based on the principle of “the best

the design & construction is complete,

possible solution to the worst possible condition”. Building Sensors are a small step towards bringing a building to life. With the sensors, the living envelope & core of the building adapts to the different conditions, so

based on prevailing conditions, and not a climate statistic which is only a probability!

the consumption is modified

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969), German born American architect, famously quoted "God is in the details” and how true that statement is for Green buildings. One of these “details” are these little technological marvels, are sensors. There are many sensors that can be used in a high performance building to save water, resources & energy. These sensors take advantage of existing conditions, to save energy & resources. We will explore the different sensors commonly used in green buildings and see their benefits. Some of the most commonly used sensors are: 1. Occupancy Sensors 2. CO2 sensors 3. Sensors in Toilets

Occupancy Sensors These are sensors that detect occupancy (through motion) and can switch on and off lights when a space is occupied or unoccupied. There is great saving potential (see table below) by using these sensors in spaces which multiple occupants are using for a short time. In such spaces there are instances of the light being left on, instead of continuously switching them on & off. There are three technologies — passive infrared, ultrasonic and microsonic — that are used to detect occupancy. Systems may employ one technology or combine two of them, called dual technology. Combining technologies can provide better performance. Manufacturers usually advertise coverage at the maximum possible, but it can be severely altered due to location, sensitivity adjustment, height and location of furniture and distance of moving objects. Large or complex areas will often require additional sensor units for satisfactory performance.

Passive Infrared Sensors

• Detect heat energy. • Work by line of sight so will not work well in spaces with many barriers like restrooms or office areas with high cubicle walls. • More sensitive to cross motion than to motion approaching the sensor. • Work well in offices, high ceiling warehouses and hallways or aisle-ways in storage areas.

Ultrasonic Sensors

• Transmit pressure waves at high, inaudible frequencies that cross the space and return. • Motion in the space changes the pattern of the waves, activating the sensor. • These units are sensitive to any motion, including inanimate objects, but can “see” around barriers so are often used in restrooms.

CARBON DI OXIDE Sensors

Dual Technology Sensors

• Also called hybrid sensors, blending the above systems. • Detection by both sensors to turn on the lights but detection by only one unit to keep them on. • This system works well to prevent false on-off switching.

The CO2 sensor is a vital component to ensure the acceptable amount of carbon dioxide gas in an indoor environment. Conventional buildings ventilate to meet peak occupant demand and fresh air requirements, regardless of actual occupant demand. When spaces are partially or not occupied, there is a huge amount of energy that is wasted to condition outside fresh air before being supplied. The CO2 sensor makes the building more “intelligent” in terms of bringing in only that amount of fresh air, what is necessary to keep the CO2 within the optimum range. Hence CO2 sensors are a type of Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV) strategy that improves a building's energy efficiency and helps ensure proper indoor air quality. It is very important that these sensors are used with the Building Automation System and not just to set off an alarm when CO2 levels are exceeded. The most common principles for CO2 sensors are infrared gas sensors and chemical gas sensors. CO2 is a useful indicator of a room's ventilation needs based on the number of people in the room and are usually installed in densely occupied spaces (above 25 people per 1000 square feet) and per LEED requirements, should be between 3’ and 6’ above floor level.

Sensors in Toilets Sensors have become a common sight in most modern buildings like airports, shopping malls, offices and many residential applications also. The simple reason people use sensors in toilet fixtures like faucets, urinal, soap dispensers and paper hand towel dispensers, is to improve the hygiene conditions and save. With multiple users and the high possibility of cross contamination, if housekeeping is not up to a high standard, is a problem faced all over the world. Let us not forget the wonderful savings of water & materials that can be achieved by utilizing these sensors.

sensors have a motion sensor to start the flow of water and also have a timer. This ensures water is not wasted by excessive flushing and also less wastage due to accidental incomplete turn off by users. The sensors are usually battery operated or electrically powered and use infra red ray sensing devices. Some fixtures are also equipped with a timer which ensures that when a pre determined “adequate” amount of water / time of flow, has been dispensed, the water shuts off. This avoids any chance of over flow or flooding of the basin / sink. Many products are available with different pre set times, and this can be adjusted based on the application. The durability of these products is also very good, as there is no physical contact and chances of physical damage to the sensor or faucet. Hygiene is also maintained, by ensuring the waste is removed in urinals, by functioning independent of the user’s requirement to flush the fixture after use. Manufacturers claim savings of 60 – 80 % on water consumption when these sensors are used.

Motion sensors in bathrooms are a hygienic way to save on materials Soap dispensers and hand towel dispensers have sensors and give the bathroom a very clean and well maintained image. The use of the innovative technologies shows the commitment of the owner toward green & sustainable practices.

http://www.infolink.com.au/odin/images/216052/Sensor-urinalImage courtesy of solan flusher-from-KST-Water-Saving-Facilities.jpg

Sensors in taps & faucets help to regulate the amount of water being used. Most

Some of the advantages of using sensors 1. Hygienic 2. Water and material conserving 3. Less maintenance & housekeeping 4. Ideal for differently-abled users 5. Impression & quality of space / facility

Image courtesy of itouchless

Image courtesy of itouchless

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July 2009





“Sustainable development is a dynamic process which enables all people to realize their potential, and to improve their quality of life, in ways which simultaneously protect and enhance the Earth's life support systems." “Forum for the Future” Annual Report 2000