Transition to net-zero housing: An integrated approach to counter climate change

The term ‘net-zero housing’ conjures up images of solar panels on rooftops. When you make any change to have a net-zero house, it starts with a new way of thinking, in terms of smart designs that can invoke a rethinking about the site orientation, position and types of windows and doors to be installed, exterior window shadings, among other things. When it comes to promoting sustainability through architecture, the importance of design that prioritises energy efficiency, is enormous.

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Contrary to popular belief, a net-zero housing facility does not have to be expensive to be constructed and operated. Such a structure is designed as per the environment and its surroundings. A net-zero residential building relies on the adoption of smart design principles and correct amount of fenestration that prioritises natural lighting and ventilation. So, here are a few ideas to make your house net-zero.

Smart design

The foundation of a cost-effective, net-zero energy house, is its smart design. Designers, architects, builders and home owners should be well-informed about all energy efficiency measures required to construct a net-zero house. They should work together, to implement their ideas with cost-effective measures. For a sustainable home design, builders should ask designers to pay special attention to design parameters.

See also: Tips and ideas to save electricity at home

Modular and flexible construction

The house should be constructed in such a way that it can adapt to the changing needs of its inhabitants in future. The need for expensive modifications would significantly be reduced, by a flexible and modular construct. This way, pollution caused by demolition or other construction activities would be reduced too. Aluminium and uPVC windows and doors would not require frequent maintenance or alteration. Their toughness and durability would allow them to withstand the harshest weather conditions. As a result, maintenance costs would be minimised.

Choose high-insulation windows and doors

As they work as enormous energy holes in a well-insulated, airtight building; windows and doors are one of the top three most cost-effective approaches to make your home more energy-efficient. By using uPVC and aluminium materials for windows and doors, you can reduce heat loss and gain.

See also: How to select the right windows to meet lighting and ventilation requirements in your kitchen

Orientation

As India enjoys a clear sky for about 95% of the time, letting natural light in, saves electricity. A 40%-60% window-to-wall ratio can keep heat out of the house. Cladding optimises thermal efficiency, protects buildings and extends their lives when the civil structure is in place. The trapped air between walls and panels forms an air circulation system that cools a room. The buildings’ protective covering on southern and western walls, for example, will help to limit heat intake. For better results, at least three-quarters of a wall should be covered. With the four important components of energy, water, waste and carbon, accounting for a net-zero building, the green building plus is the standard.

Make the building self-sufficient

Using renewable energy sources and collecting rainwater, make it self-sufficient in terms of power and portable water. Kitchen gardens or grow rooms must also be included in such buildings.

Also read: Why realty players should focus on green buildings

While these modifications are required to change your home to an environmentally-friendly living space, its inhabitants must also make certain passive and behavioural changes to lower the energy consumption.

(The writer is business head, Fenesta Building Systems, a division of DCM Shriram Limited)

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