ECO Niwas

ECO Niwas Samhita 2018 promotes energy-efficient residential buildings, saving energy and enhancing sustainable living.

ECO Niwas Samhita 2018

Syllabus: Govt. schemes (UPSC Prelims)

Context:

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) have signed an MoU to promote energy efficiency in the building sector. Under this agreement, both agencies will cooperate in:

Promoting the design and construction of Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC)-compliant new buildings.
Conducting star ratings for CPWD-managed buildings (without registration or renewal fees).
Raising awareness and building capacity of CPWD officials on energy-efficient practices.

About ECO Niwas Samhita 2018

The ECO Niwas Samhita 2018, launched by the Ministry of Power¹ on December 14, 2018, is the Energy Conservation Building Code for Residential Buildings. It aims to enhance energy efficiency in the residential sector, covering homes, apartments, and townships.

Aim:
To promote energy-efficient design and construction in residential buildings, thereby benefiting both the occupants and the environment through reduced energy consumption.

Roles and Responsibilities

Role of BEE:

Process applications for star ratings of buildings.
Conduct preliminary scrutiny and data verification for CPWD buildings.
Install smart meters and issue certificates and labels.
Support ECBC-compliant building design and energy efficiency initiatives.
Coordinate with CPWD and conduct capacity-building programs for its officials.

Role of CPWD:

Submit complete applications for building star ratings.
Facilitate data verification and monitoring.
Ensure construction of ECBC-compliant buildings.
Coordinate efficiently with BEE for implementation.

Expected Outcome:
The initiative is projected to save over 260 million units of energy annually, with an estimated operational saving of ₹100 crore in the first stage.

Star Rating for Commercial Buildings

Based on actual energy performance (kWh/sqm/year).
Rated on a 1–5 Star scale, with 5-Star buildings being most efficient.
Voluntary scheme, valid for five years from issuance.
Encourages public recognition and “demand-side” awareness.
Covers categories like offices, BPOs, malls, and hospitals across five climatic zones.

Background

Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE):

A statutory body established on 1st March 2002 under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
Mission: Develop policies and strategies to reduce the energy intensity of the Indian economy through stakeholder participation and self-regulation.

Central Public Works Department (CPWD):

Established in 1854 under Lord Dalhousie as the central agency for public works.
Headed by a Director General (DG), the Principal Technical Advisor to the Government of India.
Has a pan-India presence and expertise in executing complex infrastructure projects.
Notable projects include infrastructure for Asian Games 1982, Commonwealth Games 2010, and construction of the Afghan Parliament Building.

Summary:
The ECO Niwas Samhita 2018 represents a key step in India’s sustainable development strategy, aiming to enhance energy efficiency in residential buildings through design, technology, and institutional collaboration between BEE and CPWD.