Sustainability in industrial architecture

Architects and design consultants believe that sustainability is the future of industrial architecture. Sustainability must be technically sound and environmentally responsible. It is essential to incorporate sustainability at the design stage itself. 

Energy Efficiency

A key feature of sustainable building is Energy Efficiency through optimised building envelopes and renewable integration. Manufacturing facilities are energy-intensive: processes, lighting, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning add to the operational costs and energy consumption. A crucial way of achieving this efficiency is by creating a highly optimised building envelope and seamlessly integrating renewable energy sources. The design consultants must create a barrier to reduce heat transfer, thus reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. It results in better indoor comfort for the workforce and reduced energy bills.

Renewable power:

The integration of renewable power is necessary in many industries. The rooftop solar system in industries helps generate green, clean energy and reduce dependence on grid power. Integrating renewable energy into the facility protects against fluctuating energy prices and lowers the carbon footprint. Solar water heating and geothermal systems help increase the self-sufficiency of the building. Operational savings and long-term value are an added advantage.

Design Strategies for Architects and Design Consultants:

Achieving energy efficiency in industries needs a multi-faceted approach. Some of the design strategies are as follows:

Insulation

1. High-performance insulation materials to minimise thermal ingress into the building.
2. The architects and design consultants must consider the roof material’s solar reflectance and thermal emittance.
3. A double or triple-pane insulated glazing unit with a coating to control solar heat while maximising daylight is best suited.
4. The design consultants must check the positioning of the windows to balance natural light and heat.
5. The design must ensure proper detailing of joints, seams and penetrations to avoid air infiltration and exfiltration that will impact energy consumption.
6. Effective use of air barrier systems
7. High thermal mass materials within the building help moderate indoor temperatures.
8. External shading, like overhangs, reduces direct solar radiation. Trees and trellises help in improving natural shading.

Natural Lighting

1. Design consultants recommend natural lighting through windows, light shelves, and daylight panels to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. Placement of the windows, daylight panels, wall light panels, etc, helps ensure proper lighting in the workspace.
2. Light-coloured interiors help maximise light reflectance and distribution.

Ventilation

1. Ventilation and passive cooling through fenestrations like windows and louvers facilitate natural airflow and help improve energy efficiency. Additionally, using roof vents or tall spaces to create a chimney effect helps bring cool air inside the building.
2. Efficient HVAC Systems ensure heating and cooling in occupied areas or areas with specific temperature requirements. VRF systems provide heating and cooling simultaneously in different zones.
3. Energy recovery ventilators help recover energy from the exhaust and transfer it to the incoming fresh air.
4. High-efficiency motors for fans and pumps help save significant energy.
5. The MEP consultants must design a well-insulated duct that is appropriate for the system. The ductwork design must ensure minimal pressure drop and no air leakage.  

Renewable Energy Integration

1. The integration of energy through renewable sources like solar power, geothermal pumps, wind, etc., with the grid helps improve energy efficiency.

Intelligent Building Management Systems

1. A well-designed Intelligent Building Management System (IBMS) helps control HVAC, lighting, security and other building systems. Also, the usage of sensors and timers for light fittings is crucial.

When integrated into a holistic design approach, these design strategies can significantly reduce the operational energy footprint of industrial buildings, leading to substantial long-term savings and a more sustainable future. Furthermore, the thought of energy efficiency must be a part of the project meetings from the start of the project itself and not an afterthought.  Moreover, it is a responsibility that architects and design consultants must take on with each project.