Retrofitting buildings can cut energy use by up to 75%, says expert
Retrofitting existing buildings could slash energy consumption by up to 75% while significantly reducing carbon emissions, making older structures a major opportunity in the fight against climate change, said Prof. S. Ananta Ramakrishna, retired professor of IIT Kanpur and former Dean of the GITAM School of Science.
Addressing the faculty of the GITAM School of Science on Friday, Prof. Ramakrishna cited Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projections that identify retrofitting buildings and upgrading equipment as a major opportunity for carbon savings by 2030.
Lighting accounts for 25% to 40% of energy consumption in commercial buildings, he said, stressing the need for efficient lighting and building systems. He highlighted thermal insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, natural ventilation, smart building controls and renewable energy systems as measures to improve energy efficiency.
He suggested rooftop solar installations, separate wiring for direct-current lights and fans, and reversible metering to supply surplus electricity to the grid.
Light-reflecting paints, sunlighting light pipes and optical fibre bricks could improve indoor illumination and reduce dependence on artificial lighting, he said.
Prof. Ramakrishna said glass facades required energy-efficient design. New glazing technologies and specialised coatings could control optical properties and limit ultraviolet radiation.
Referring to concentrating solar technology, he cited a solar thermal facility in China using 15,927 mirrors to concentrate solar heat. The plant could reach about 1,040°F, generate power for around 50,000 homes and reduce coal consumption by about 60,000 tonnes a year, he said.
He said such technologies could improve energy efficiency and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
GITAM School of Science Director Prof. C. Kavitha, department heads, and senior faculty members attended the programme.