NEW DELHI: The government has proposed mandatory energy performance ratings for new commercial and institutional buildings with a built-up area of 20,000 square meters or more. This initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency in one of India’s most rapidly growing electricity-consuming sectors.
According to a draft notification released by the power ministry to amend the Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code, owners of all new large buildings and complexes commencing construction post-notification will be required to obtain an energy rating from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) or a registered rating agency.
The proposed framework aims to establish a nationally recognized system for assessing and disclosing building energy performance. Its goals include standardizing energy assessments, enhancing transparency, promoting energy-efficient designs and technologies, and assisting consumers in comparing buildings based on energy efficiency.
“The building sector is one of the fastest-growing energy-consuming sectors in India, driven by rapid urbanization, increased commercial activity, expanding infrastructure, and rising demand for thermal comfort,” stated an explanatory note accompanying the notification.
