Evaluating the Environmental Footprint: BPE Framework for Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Residential Buildings in India

Abstract

In the context of enhancing building performance assessment, this study introduces the BPE (Building Performance Evaluation) framework and explores its application through a residential complex in India. An expert evaluation of the questionnaire is carried out to investigate the main element and obstacles to the execution of BPE. The framework, designed to scrutinize five parameters, initially assesses design aspects, including building form, orientation, and aesthetics. Findings reveal that the building design lacks efficient circulation, storage facilities, and satisfactory spatial allocation. Building energy monitoring, essential for comprehensive analysis, faces limitations due to insufficient data availability, emphasizing the need for thorough planning. Thermal comfort analysis, based on temperature and humidity measurements, unveils significant fluctuations beyond comfort thresholds. Expert surveys and occupant feedback further expose reduced utilization of natural ventilation, high air conditioner adoption rates, and adaptive behaviours. The framework's insights prompt opportunities for improvement, yet validation requires broader application across diverse buildings. The study's academic survey emphasizes the importance of integrating BPE in industries with government policies. Field observations highlight challenges in space utilization, material selection, and occupant engagement. This study's findings underscore the BPE-RBPI framework's potential to refine performance assessment, sustainable and energy efficient to foster industry confidence, and drive holistic improvements in India's building sector.