With the UT administration notifying Chandigarh Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), 2024, the same will now have to be followed in the construction of commercial buildings in the city.
The code will come into effect from May 1, 2024. Its aim is to make commercial building energy efficient, and help save 20-30% electricity every year.
The code is applicable to commercial buildings or complexes that have a connected load of 50 kW or greater or a contract demand of 60 kVA or the plot area of building is equal to or more than 1,000 sqm or the built-up area of building is equal two or more than 2,000 sqm (excluding non-conditioned spaces in basement) greater and are intended to be used for commercial purposes.
The provisions of this code do not apply to plug loads, and equipment and parts of buildings that use energy for manufacturing processes, unless otherwise specified in the code. If any existing building after additions or alterations changes its connected load to 50 kW or above or comes within any other stipulated qualifying conditions, the building would have to comply with the code. Commercial establishment share in the city’s total electricity consumption is more than 30%.
Buildings intended only for private residential purposes are not covered by the code.
The provisions of this code apply to building envelope, mechanical systems and equipment, including heating, ventilating, and air conditioning, service hot water heating, interior and exterior lighting, and electrical power and motors, and renewable energy systems.
Under the code, for the approval of the building plans for a new commercial building meeting the laid down criterion, an undertaking will have to be given along with the building plan proposal that the ECBC conditions will be met.
The estate office will issue an occupancy certificate only if the provisions are complied with.
The statutory designated authority (SDA), UT electricity department, will issue ECBC compliance certificate that will be valid for four years.
If the owner fails to achieve specified energy usage within a period of three years from the date of occupancy of the building, the SDA approach the Chandigarh Energy Conservation Building Code Technical Grievances Redressal Committee, which will make recommendations in the matter.