Sunday 19 November 2023

ECBC: HIGH ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS


India’s Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), 2017, has earned recognition from the International Energy Agency (IEA) as a “notable exception” among developing countries for its high energy efficiency standards.

About ECBC:

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) introduced the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) in 2007 and updated it in 2017. Aimed at commercial buildings with a connected load of 100 kW or more, the code sets minimum energy standards, targeting energy savings of 25-50%. Applicable to new and existing buildings, it assesses parameters like building design, lighting systems, and renewable energy integration. Compliant buildings receive tags in ascending order of efficiency:

1. ECBC

2. ECBC Plus

3. Super ECBC

Out of 28 states, 23 have notified Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) rules, but only 15 have adopted the latest ECBC from 2017.

The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022 includes transitioning ECBC into the Energy Conservation and Sustainability Building Code, incorporating measures for sustainability, and mandating ECO Niwas Samhita for residential buildings, addressing the importance of energy efficiency in the sector.