Energy Positive Smart buildings are a type of sustainable design that incorporates energy-efficient building techniques, advanced technology, and renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines to produce extra energy. These buildings consume less energy and actually produce excess energy through their smart systems and renewable resources. They can even operate independently from the grid by using stored energy and electric vehicles that can connect to the grid. Additionally, they can sell surplus electricity to the grid during peak times and store excess energy when the grid produces too much.
It is essential to highlight the importance of these smart buildings in leading the way towards a greener future by showcasing how living and working spaces can actively generate energy. To enhance the understanding of energy-positive smart buildings and to brainstorm actionable strategies for their widespread implementation, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with the India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF), under its South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP) program, organized a session titled ‘Energy Positive Smart Buildings and Campuses’ on March 14, 2024, at the Lalit Hotel in New Delhi, as part of the India Smart Utility Week 2024.
The session was graced by Atul Kumar Bali, Executive Director, PowerGrid, and Director, National Smart Grid Mission. Apurva Chaturvedi, Senior Clean Energy Specialist, USAID India, delivered the welcome address. The session was chaired by Anand Kumar, Chairperson, Delhi Real Estate Regulatory Authority, and moderated by Tanmay Tathagat and Sumedh Agarwal, Deputy Chief of Party, USAID’s SAREP program.
During the session, participants engaged in discussions about innovative design and architecture, the development of building codes to enhance energy efficiency, and the role of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) in energy storage. The session also highlighted how policies and incentives can drive the adoption of smart grid-interactive buildings. This conversation marks the beginning of our journey towards more energy-positive buildings.
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