National Workshop on Advancing Energy-Efficient Retrofits and Sustainable Building Codes
The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), in collaboration with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), hosted the National Workshop on Advancing Energy-Efficient Retrofits and Sustainable Building Codes on 28th February 2025 at The Oval, Hyatt Regency, New Delhi. The workshop provided a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts to discuss the adoption of Energy-Efficient Retrofit Manuals, the Energy Conservation & Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC), and the Eco Niwas Samhita (ENS) to drive sustainability in India's built environment.
The building sector is a significant contributor to India’s primary energy consumption and electricity use. As urbanization accelerates, enhancing energy efficiency in existing buildings becomes critical. Retrofitting presents a cost-effective and scalable approach to reducing operational costs and carbon emissions, but its success depends on structured guidelines and a robust institutional framework.
Key Highlights from the Workshop
The workshop commenced with an inaugural session featuring insightful addresses by eminent speakers. Mr Sanjay Seth, Senior Director, TERI, emphasized the importance of structured guidelines for effective retrofits in his welcome address. This was followed by a special address by Mr Chita Ranjan Nanda, Additional Director General, CPWD, who highlighted the role of sustainability in public infrastructure. The keynote address was delivered by Mr Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director General, BEE, where he underscored the significance of policy, regulation, and collaboration in achieving large-scale energy efficiency. The session concluded with a vote of thanks from Smt Pravatanalini Samal, Director, BEE, expressing appreciation for the valuable contributions of all stakeholders.
The workshop also featured technical sessions and training modules designed to provide practical insights into energy-efficient retrofits and regulatory frameworks. Mr Vikash Ranjan, CEO & Founder, Pledge4Earth, introduced participants to retrofit methodologies and best practices, while Ms Swetha, Research Associate, TERI, provided an overview of the project’s objectives and implementation strategies. Mr Akashdeep, Deputy General Manager, GRIHA Council, led a detailed training session on the practical aspects of implementing energy-efficient retrofits. Further, the session on ECSBC and ENS featured Ms Meenal Anand, Senior Sector Expert, BEE, who explained the role of ECSBC in commercial building energy efficiency, followed by Mr Mayankraj Prajapat, Project Engineer, BEE, who discussed the significance of ENS in ensuring sustainability in residential buildings.
Interactive Open House & Conclusion
The Open House Discussion allowed participants to share insights on challenges and opportunities in energy-efficient retrofits and sustainable building codes.
Ms. Shabnam Bassi, Senior Fellow & Director, TERI, delivered the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all speakers and participants.
Looking Ahead
The success of energy-efficient retrofits depends on collaboration between government agencies, industry leaders, and technical professionals. The workshop’s insights will shape future policies, ensuring the widespread adoption of sustainable practices in India's built environment.
On behalf of TERI and BEE, we thank all stakeholders for their participation and commitment to advancing India’s energy efficiency agenda.
