The Hindu Business Line : Sustainable homes

Chandrasekhar Hariharan of Biodiversity Conservation says his company aims to reduce, if not eliminate, "dependence on city infrastructure for energy, water and waste. Over the years, we have built nearly two million sq ft of residential enclave which offer green solutions, without making any compromise on urban comfort and convenience."

The company's T-Zed Homes (Zed or Zero Emission Development) have used over 48 different technologies to make them less dependent on outside resources. The enclave has its own water network of 44 open wells and a wastewater treatment plant.

Other unique features include: Built-in CFC-free refrigerators and fresh-air based air-conditioners that consume 40 per cent less power. Hybrid CFL/LED lighting for common areas, solar pumps and water heating and intelligent electric switches. Building technologies that reduce carbon emissions.

"Residents pay 30 per cent less on power and 20 per cent less on monthly maintenance," says Hariharan. The residential campus has certification for carbon credits and sequestration. Hence, each resident gains Rs 12,000 annually on carbon credit savings.

Over a seven-year period, a Rs 50-lakh home would save about Rs 7 lakh, says Hariharan.

LEED-India ratings are currently available only for commercial projects. A similar rating system for residential projects is being worked out.

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