Efficient use of energy
is being achieved by minimizing use of non-renewable energy (NRE) sources and
maximizing use of renewable energy (RE) sources, popular among them being,
solar energy, Bio-gas energy, wind energy etc. But there are few key hurdles faced
in all these energy systems while using them at neighborhood level like, (a)
huge capital investment requirement & (b) less efficiency with reference to
size. Through this write-up I am suggesting few methodologies which could be
utilized to mitigate or minimize these hurdles.
To reduce investment
requirement
In order to reduce the
investment required for use of RE systems, I suggest utilizing these
systems in conjunction with various existing building systems (such as
façade systems, wall systems, structural systems etc.).
Logic behind this is
simple, when we install a stand-alone renewable energy system (say solar
electricity system), cost for that will be separate from building systems’
cost. But, if we integrate that renewable energy system with the building, in
such a way that it could replace part or full component of certain building
system, then the overall cost will have some amount of reduction. That, in
turn, will make utilizing renewable energy system more viable cost-wise. To
further understand; let’s take an example of solar electricity system and its
integration with building system in a smart neighborhood to achieve better
cost.
Traditionally, solar
electric systems are installed on terrace area having a wide open space
allowing ample direct sunlight. But this approach doesn’t result in any cost
saving on account of its integration with building system. It also results
wastage of usable terrace space.
Switching this with
above mentioned approach, we could integrate the solar electric system with
parapets (part of building wall system), by removing portions of brick parapet
located on southern, Eastern & Western edges of the terraces of
neighborhood buildings and replacing this parapet space with solar panels
facing sun. Resulting parapet would be part brickwork and part solar panels.
This would lead to cost savings on part of brick-parapet removal from building
and also terrace space savings. The extent of this integration could be quantified
subject to various project design considerations.
Example schematics 1a &
1b for reference.
To increase the efficiency with reference to size of system
Typically the effective
output of RE systems depends directly on its size. Larger the system better is
the output. Considering the possibility of increasing efficiency of RE systems
without increasing the size, through interaction of different RE energy systems
with each other in common building system/systems is an interesting thought. Lets say, Interaction of solar energy & bio-gas energy in reducing the
overall inefficiency of both could be explored through designing both of these to
complement each other. Can we?
To increase the efficiency with reference to size of system
