4 architectural methods to improve energy efficiency in schools in Mumbai

School is often referred to as the temple of learning as it plays a vital role in educating children and enhancing their personalities. It teaches the importance of the need-of-the-hour issues like energy efficiency and encourages students towards a sustainable life. Thus, creating a high-performance learning environment at schools becomes necessary.

Nowadays, many institutions look for the scope of energy efficiency in their construction or renovation plans. The government also implements several initiatives to provide a better educational environment for future generations.

So, here, we will focus on the major architectural changes which every school in Mumbai should incorporate to encourage energy efficiency and sustainability.

1. Site design

Aligning the school building effectively helps in maximizing sunlight access and amplifies the potency of daylight strategies. In addition, orienting may also help in determining the need of reducing vehicular transit inside the premises. This will further aid in improving the air quality of the campus. Also, some reliable school architects in Mumbai suggest that water requirements can be managed by integrating vegetation native for ecosystem design.

1. Lighting efficiency

Out of all the architectural key points for efficient schooling, this factor plays a pivotal role in improving performance. Studying in daylight creates a healthier learning environment. It not only helps in minimizing the energy consumption costs but also ensures better lighting conditions for the students.

Daylighting and windows are the perfect ways to enhance energy efficiency in classrooms. However, for some spaces like projector rooms and computer labs, schools can decide on designs and smart electrical devices that align with their energy efficiency goals.

1. Building shell

Normally, a building shell contributes about 10% to 20% of total energy consumption at schools. So, focusing on this area while designing schools in Mumbai can actually reduce the overall energy costs. Aspects like light color exterior walls and ceilings or even white roofs significantly help to reduce heat losses and gains. In addition, it will decrease the cost and size of HVAC systems.

Furthermore, the beneficial life of these materials depends on architectural considerations. So, it is the responsibility of the designers and the school authorities along with school architects in Mumbai to make wise building shell decisions. As a right choice will minimize the future costs regarding maintenance, replacements, and operations. Moreover, it will also protect the teachers, staff, and children from potential architectural hazards like collapsing structures or ceilings.

1. Mechanical and ventilation structure

In humid climates, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems comprise approximately 50% of the energy consumption in learning institutions. These systems should not be over-designed as they may increase the initial setup and future operating costs. Also, HVAC systems tend to have a significant impact on the health and performance of teachers as well as of the students.

A proper installation of such equipment will eradicate noise pollution by ventilators, poor indoor air quality, and physical security issues.

Implementation of the above-mentioned methods will bring out an energy-efficient and hygienic learning environment. Furthermore, it will also help in integrating schools into the fabric of the eco-friendly community. However, it is advisable to seek help from the best school architects in Mumbai to evaluate environmental implications and get the best suitable design accordingly.

Rea Setia is an passionate writer. She loves to share business tips and her experience about industry.