Description

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Context:

High-performance buildings (HPBs) are at the forefront of sustainable construction, tackling urgent needs like energy efficiency, climate resilience, and resource conservation.

Details:

As climate change intensifies, resources become scarcer, and urbanisation increases, HPBs — built to consume less energy, conserve resources, and withstand unpredictable weather — are an important part of achieving and keeping sustainable living.

What are High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)?

HPBs are designed to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, minimise energy and water use, and cut operational costs using climate-adaptive designs. They are structures that are designed and operated in ways that optimize energy efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and promote a healthy indoor environment for occupants.

The Three Pillars of High Performance

Energy Efficiency: High-performance buildings minimize energy consumption without sacrificing occupant comfort. This is achieved through passive design strategies like daylighting and the use of building automation and smart technologies, which enhance efficiency in ventilation, lighting, and other building systems.

Environmental Impact: Buildings should minimize environmental impacts during construction and throughout their lifespan. This includes the use of sustainable materials, water efficiency measures, waste management, and recycling practices. Construction and renovation should also aim to minimize disruption to the building's surroundings and the community.

Healthy Indoor Environment: High-performance buildings create a healthy, comfortable, and productive environment for occupants. This is achieved by controlling noise levels, improving ventilation and indoor air quality, and using materials with low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Benefits of HPBs

Category	Details	Example
Integrative Design	Encourages collaboration among architects, engineers, and building owners to achieve measurable performance goals Uses digital modeling for predicting outcomes and refining designs before construction	Passive design strategies optimize natural sunlight and thermal mass to reduce heating and cooling needs
Sustainable Materials	Prioritize materials with low embodied carbon and high recycled content Use low-emission materials to enhance indoor air quality by minimizing volatile organic compounds (VOCs)	Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) uses lifecycle assessments to choose durable materials
Energy Efficiency	Passive Strategies: Utilize natural light, building orientation, and thermal mass to minimize reliance on systems Active Strategies: Employ energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart technologies, and renewable energy sources	Infosys Hyderabad campus uses radiant cooling systems and daylighting controls to reduce energy use
Water Conservation	Efficient Fixtures: Low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets conserve water Reuse Systems: Rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling for irrigation and sanitation	Infosys campuses recycle 100% of wastewater using advanced treatment systems
Handling Climate Risks	Incorporate climate-resilient features like flood protection, durable materials, and renewable energy systems Ensure passive survivability to maintain habitability during power outages	Infosys Crescent building in Bengaluru uses advanced cooling systems and consumes far less energy

Difference between HPBs and Green Buildings

Significance for India’s Cities

Urbanization Challenge	India's urban population will reach 600 million by 2030, increasing building demand and the carbon footprint.
Carbon Footprint Reduction	High-Performance Buildings (HPBs) reduce energy use and emissions, addressing the building sector's environmental impact.
Resilience and Adaptability	HPBs offer resilience through energy-efficient and adaptive designs.
Improved Quality of Life	HPBs improve air quality, enhance workplace environments, and reduce resource consumption.
Enhanced Urban Spaces	HPBs create better spaces with features like green areas and natural lighting.
Support for Climate Goals	HPBs help cities meet climate goals and address challenges posed by rapid urbanization.

Reference

https://learn.kaiterra.com/en/resources/high-performance-building-fundamental-aspects

Source:

THE HINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.High-performance buildings (HPBs) play an important role in achieving sustainability in urban development. Discuss the key features of HPBs and the challenges associated with their widespread implementation in India. (250 words)