Mahindra, TERI set up centre to improve energy efficiency

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and Mahindra Lifespaces on Friday announced the creation of a Center of Excellence (CoE) focused on improving energy efficiency in residential buildings sector.

According to a press release, ‘Mahindra TERI CoE for Sustainable Habitats’ will evaluate traditional and innovative technologies and alternative material customised for Indian buildings sector and climate zones. The centre will bring informed validated knowledge about better performing material and ways to use the daylight that will greatly help to mainstream greener buildings in the country.

The focus areas of the CoE will include energy and water efficiency and use of low-cost green material. Another intended outcome of the research efforts of the CoE will be to address the existing gap in available statistical datasets relevant to the Indian residential buildings sector.

Ajay Mathur, Director General, TERI, said, “Buildings are experiencing unprecedented growth in India, leading to increased energy demand and consumption. Extensive research is needed to enable energy efficiency in buildings, and the ‘Mahindra TERI CoE for Sustainable Habitats’ aims to evaluate innovative technologies tailored to the Indian consumer and climate, and available in the form of easy-to-use tools to the Indian building industry. We are delighted that Mahindra Lifespaces has come forth to support the establishment of this Center that will benefit the entire industry.”

Anita Arjundas, MD, Mahindra Lifespace Developers, said, “The significance of energy efficiency in the Indian buildings sector has been highlighted over the last few years; however, there remains substantial potential for further advancements in knowledge assimilation and technology adoption that can benefit the industry and consequently, ensure a sustainable future for India’s urban areas. With its firm conviction that efficient utilization of energy and natural resources is crucial to drive urban development in the right direction, TERI is appropriately placed to drive this agenda and we are happy to support the establishment of the CoE”.