Net Zero Energy Building Movement in India - An Overview

Abstract

Worldwide Buildings consume up to 40% of the total global energy and 36% of carbon dioxide emissions. By the year 2030, the consumption is expected to increase up to 50%. In India building sector consume a total of 70% of the electricity generated in the country. Studies indicate more than 50% of energy is used in buildings for occupants comfort like cooling and lighting. Energy consumption in the building sector will continue to increase until buildings can be designed to produce enough energy to compensate the growing energy demand of these buildings. Toward this end, many governments promote zero energy buildings. A zero-energy building is a building with zero net energy consumption; it means the total amount of energy used by the building on an annual basis is equal to the amount of energy produced on the site or off the site. These buildings do not increase the amount of greenhouse gases and less impact on climate. This paper aimed at reviewing some literature on zero energy buildings in India and suggests ways of improving the energy usage by the occupants.