Group 10-Energy Efficient Solutions in Modern Buildings

Energy has emerged as a critical economic issue, with its high consumption there are many consequences such as depletion of energy sources, green house emission etc. Buildings are on the front line of this issue due to their high consumption of energy. Efficient buildings and appropriate land use offer opportunities to save money as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Energy efficiency solutions is very important aspect to be considered in a building. Energy efficiency measures for buildings are taken to minimize the energy consumption of a building while maintaining or improving the level of comfort in the building. With the advancement of technology there are plenty of solutions for energy efficiency in a building.

Solar Energy Systems

Solar energy is the source of the water cycle and of wind. The plant kingdom also uses solar energy by transforming it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Solar panels are used to trap and convert the sun’s rays into usable energy. Solar energy is considered as green energy because it is renewable, sustainable and abundant. The use of solar power is of tremendous importance in a green building. Solar power capture technologies can be divide into three categories as Solar photovoltaic, solar thermal and solar thermodynamic. Solar heating systems can be installed in all types of buildings. Using solar power to pre-heat outside air before it is allowed to enter a building can considerably reduce heating costs both in residential buildings and commercial constructions. Solar heating systems are especially efficient for large buildings. Since the cost of solar is dropping quite rapidly, making it an even more attractive energy alternative.

Geothermal energy systems

Geothermal energy comes from the naturally existing heat inside the Earth. It is used in air conditioning, heating or transformation into electricity. Geothermal systems are energy-efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly. Geothermal systems can be installed on new houses or renovation projects. This technology is divide into two categories as deep geothermal or near-surface geothermal energy. This technology can considerably reduce the use of fossil fuels or electricity, which emit more greenhouse gases and which are generally less financially interesting in the long term. Geothermal systems present some major advantages. Effectively, underground heat is present everywhere on Earth. Geothermal energy comes from an almost continuous source that is not dependent on atmospheric conditions.

Efficient lighting solutions

 Installing more efficient and affordable lighting solutions is a good way to save on energy. With new and improved led technologies the solutions are broader than ever. Whether it’s re-lamping (replacing existing lamps/bulbs with more efficient product); retrofitting (replacing existing fixtures, lamps/bulbs and ballast with new equipment) by using more efficient replacement product for existing fixtures, sizable savings through efficient lighting solutions can be achieved.

Skylights

Skylights are traditionally placed in or near a structure’s roof. It is a great option for buildings prioritizing natural light. Buildings with skylights require less artificial lighting, so Skylights contribute to considerable energy savings. Depending on skylight type and placement, other features include such as ventilation, day lighting without heat gain, night-time heat retention and emergency exit accessibility.

Energy Star Windows 

Energy efficient windows are new player in window market which are more energy efficient than normal windows. The ratings for these windows determine how energy efficient they will be. The lower the rating, the more energy efficient are your windows. The energy savings provided by these windows are enough to cover the added cost per window.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems and Tank less Water Heaters

The collected water in the Rainwater Harvesting Systems can then be used for purposes such as toilets and sprinkler systems. System must collect rainwater from roofs and storing it in a tank. Rain barrels are one of the most common methods of rainwater harvesting being used today.

Tank less water heaters heat only that much water that is needed as it is passed through electric coil. So it is need not wait for the water to get heated. This gives benefits rather than using a normal water heaters. Firstly, it eliminates excess energy costs as it heats up only that much amount of water that is needed and secondly, sufficient storage place can be obtained by eliminating the hot water tank.

HVAC System

A high efficient Energy Star rated HVAC system will help to save energy and money. In order to perform up a HVAC system to its full potential, it needs to be properly installed.