Inspired by Richard Bach’s book Jonathan Livingston Seagull , the 12-acre Jaquar headquarters in Manesar, Haryana, is designed with its two wings spread out like a bird in full flight. But running on solar energy, using radiant cooling systems and re-utilising all waste, the imposing structure also makes a forceful statement in energy saving.

Flying high on the net-zero building philosophy, this manufacturer with a turnover of ₹2,753 crore, which makes faucets, air-showers, sensor taps, flushing systems, LED lights and complete bathroom solutions, says its values of sustainability move seamlessly between the built-up spaces it occupies and its four facilities where their products are manufactured. “It is our social responsibility and something we must contribute. We completely avoid wastage and have designed zero discharge facilities,” says Rajesh Mehra, Director and Promoter of the Jaquar Group as he points out several features incorporated in the building that was readied just a year ago. The equipment is all remotely controlled and monitored by a central unit, the Building Management System.

Renewable energy

The headquarters’ large warehouse terrace and spacious parking lots are covered by solar panels with a generating capacity of 975 kW, which makes the imposing structure a net zero energy building. That means that the total amount of energy used by the building annually is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy it creates.

Apart from being run on solar energy, the building has installed radiant heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC system) that cuts by half the operating energy. There are also air handling units with Variable Frequency Drives, which auto control air distribution, thus maximising energy conservation. Heat Recovery Systems reduce the air conditioning load for fresh air. The radiant cooling system adds to lowering energy consumption. The pipes use chilled water to condition the space, while the cooling towers help to reduce energy consumption further.

Recycled water

It is not only energy. Water, the main theme of all products manufactured by the company, plays a special role in the efficiency of the building. The headquarters has water treatment plants that recycle all the water used in the building. This is diverted for irrigation purposes and for some cooling tower functions.

Besides this, two large water tanks are designed to harness rain water from the constructed spaces. This makes for domestic water use while that collected in other areas goes for ground recharging.

The building design also evokes the company’s relationship with water. The atrium of the headquarters’ entry depicts a large splash of water with five installations representing the cosmic elements. A studio design experienceintroduces visitors to Jaquar’s history, design portfolio and engagement with natural resources.

No waste

In keeping with the emphasis on sustainability, food and kitchen waste too is set aside and transported to the waste-to-energy plant at one of the Jaquar factories nearby. Here cooking gas is produced, which in turn powers the kitchen in the workers’ canteen.

“We work closely with environment consultants to conserve every bit of natural resource,” says Mehra. “Six months back we put in place an LED unit and have added lighting solutions to our portfolio. Investing on systems is not an expense. We find it to be an investment. There is tremendous pay back and considerable returns in eight to ten years.”

Mehra says they are also consciously designing products that save energy and water.

For instance, it has designed flushing systems, showers and spa units that cut back on water usage.“Our R&D continues,” he adds. “Even where manufacturing and raw material is concerned, we consume every piece of metal. Nothing goes into the environment.”

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