Chapter 3
Case Studies of Net-Zero Energy in Commercial
Buildings.
The shift toward sustainable and energy-efficient construction is not a recent
phenomenon but a culmination of decades of evolving building science and environmental
awareness. This journey has been significantly accelerated by the advent of various green
building rating systems that provide standardized frameworks for measuring and verifying a
building's environmental performance. These rating systems, such as LEED (Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment
Environmental Assessment Method), and India's own GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated
Habitat Assessment) and IGBC (Indian Green Building Council), have been instrumental in
pushing the industry beyond mere compliance with building codes towards a holistic
consideration of sustainability from a building's inception to its operation. By offering a
structured approach to design, construction, and operation, these systems provide a credible
benchmark for sustainability and have played a pivotal role in popularizing concepts like net-
zero energy. Globally, a multitude of rating systems exist, each with its own regional focus,
methodology, and emphasis on different aspects of sustainability, from energy and water
efficiency to material selection and indoor environmental quality. In the Indian context, the
IGBC and GRIHA rating systems have been particularly influential. Both systems offer a
graded approach to certification, encouraging projects to achieve higher levels of sustainability.
The IGBC, for instance, provides a comprehensive suite of ratings for different building types,
including Net-Zero Energy Buildings, which specifically recognizes projects that achieve a
balance between annual energy consumption and on-site generation. Similarly, GRIHA
emphasizes an integrated design approach and rates buildings based on performance over the
entire life cycle.
The case studies presented in this chapter; are often testaments to the successful application of
these green building principles and rating systems. These buildings serve as living laboratories,
demonstrating how theoretical concepts and high-performance technologies can be integrated
to achieve ambitious sustainability targets, including the ultimate goal of net-zero energy. They
provide invaluable data and real-world insights into the feasibility, challenges, and benefits of
net-zero construction, validating the frameworks set forth by these rating systems. By
Chapter 3: Case Study
examining these certified projects, we can move beyond generalized discussions and analyse
tangible evidence of what works in practice, paving the way for wider adoption across the
industry. The following case studies, therefore, have been carefully selected to showcase a
diverse range of Net-Zero Energy commercial buildings. Each example provides a detailed
look into the specific strategies and technologies employed, from passive design elements to
on-site renewable energy systems. This chapter will not only highlight the successful
achievement of net-zero goals but will also discuss the role of green building certifications in
guiding these projects and will shed light on the valuable lessons learned from their design,
construction, and operational phases. Through this detailed analysis, this chapter will bridge
the gap between the theoretical framework of the literature and the practical application in the
built environment.
3.1 Green Building Rating Systems In INDIA.
In India, the green building movement is primarily driven by two major rating systems: the
Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment
(GRIHA). The IGBC, established by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is the leading
certification body, offering ratings for various types of projects, including new buildings,
existing buildings, and specific building typologies like residential, commercial, and
healthcare. Its rating criteria are based on a credit-based system and cover aspects such as site
selection, water efficiency, energy efficiency, material selection, and indoor environmental
quality. The IGBC's influence has been significant in promoting green building practices
across both public and private sectors in the country.
Simultaneously, the GRIHA rating system, developed by The Energy and Resources Institute
(TERI) with support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, is a national rating
system that evaluates the environmental performance of a building comprehensively over its
entire life cycle. GRIHA assesses a project on a 100-point scale across 34 criteria, which are
categorized into various sections like site, design, energy, and waste management. It is often
considered a more prescriptive system, with a strong focus on aligning with Indian
environmental standards and local climate conditions. While both systems share a common
goal of promoting sustainable construction, they have distinct methodologies and criteria,
providing developers and architects with options to choose the system that best fits their
project's goals and local context.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
3.1.1 Teri Griha 100 Point Rating System
The TERI GRIHA rating system is a comprehensive 100-point system that evaluates the
environmental performance of a building throughout its entire life cycle, from design and
construction to operation. It is structured around a total of 34 criteria, which are broadly
categorized into different sections. These criteria cover a wide range of sustainability aspects,
including site selection and planning, energy efficiency, water conservation, use of sustainable
building materials, and waste management. A building accumulates points by demonstrating
compliance with these criteria, which are weighted based on their importance. For instance, a
project gains points for reducing its energy demand, using renewable energy, and managing
water efficiently. The total points a project achieves determine its final rating, which ranges
from a one-star rating for 50-60 points to a five-star rating for projects scoring 76-100 points,
signifying exemplary performance and a high degree of environmental responsibility.
• The minimum points required for certification is 50.
• Building scoring,
Table I: Teri Griha Point System
3.2 Net – Zero energy Buildings in India.
Net-Zero Energy (NZE) buildings in India are designed to generate as much renewable energy
on-site as they consume over a year, effectively neutralizing their operational energy footprint.
This concept is particularly vital for India given its rapid urbanization, expanding commercial
sector, and ambitious climate goals. By leveraging passive design strategies suited to the local
climate, along with advanced building technologies and on-site solar photovoltaic systems,
these buildings demonstrate a sustainable pathway forward. They not only significantly reduce
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Chapter 3: Case Study
carbon emissions but also enhance energy security and provide long-term economic benefits
by minimizing utility costs, setting a benchmark for future construction across the country.
3.2.1 Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
Location Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Coordinates 11° N, 77° E
Occupancy Type Office
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Warm and Humid
Project Area 2,322 m2
Grid Connectivity Grid Connected
EPI 56 KWh/m2/yr
Figure 3.1 SIERRA’s e Facility building Figure 3.2 Large Array of Solar Panels
SIERRA’s facility Green Office Building in Coimbatore is a net-zero energy commercial office
that achieves its balance through a combination of climate-responsive passive design and
highly efficient active systems. The building, rated IGBC Platinum, stands as a testament to
the feasibility of achieving net-zero status even in India's hot and humid climate. The building
is one of the most innovative smart buildings as it leverages its cutting-edge latest-tech building
management systems, controls, and automation to reduce its carbon footprint. Its design not
only minimizes solar heat gain in a hot climate but also leverages advanced building
automation systems (BAS) to intelligently manage resources, minimizing human intervention.
This synergy of smart design and technology allows the building to maintain an incredibly low
energy consumption, which is then fully offset by its extensive rooftop solar array.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
3.2.2 IIT Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Location Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Coordinates 26° N, 73° E
Occupancy Type Academic Campus
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Hot and Dry Desert
Project Area 8,07,518 m2
Grid Connectivity Grid Connected
Figure 3.3 IIT Jodhpur, Rajasthan
The approach is to the design and development of the facility was highly specific to the site's
topography, climate, and immediate context. It has been designed in a manner that does not
exceed the footprint of the previously existing structure. Furthermore, the location of the site
and the limited availability of resources determined the budgetary and building constraints for
the project. Therefore, the firm set out to achieve a net-zero and energy efficient building
through an integrated design approach resulting in a free-running and off-grid production unit.
Near Zero Water Campus.
• The Campus aims to be NET-ZERO water at the completion of all its phases.
• The basic concept is to optimize the baseline, reduce demand wherever possible and
use water-efficient technologies to minimize wastage.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
• Capacity has been provided for rainwater harvesting as well as extensive reuse of
treated grey and black water for non-potable uses within the Campus.
• The municipal supply will act as a backup in case of emergency situations. Native as
well as drought resistant species of plants have been used to reduce the irrigation
demand.
3.2.3 Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School, Rajasthan
Location Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Coordinates 26° N, 70° E
Occupancy Type Academic Campus
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Hot and Dry Desert
Project Area 35,600 m2
Grid Connectivity Grid Connected
Figure 3.4 Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ Figure 3.5 Jali style wall construction
School, Rajasthan. for natural ventilation.
The school was constructed in 2020. The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls School is the first building
in a complex of three, collectively called the Gyaan Centre, which will house a women's
cooperative and an exhibition cum performance hall as well as a textile museum that are still
to come. A project initiated by the international non-profit organisation CITTA, and operated
by its India arm, it is located near the village of Kanoi, Jaisalmer, on 22 big has (35,600 square
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Chapter 3: Case Study
meters) of land, generously contributed by Manvendra Singh Shekhawat, owner of the
Suryagarh Palace hotel, who joined as a director for CITTA Foundation India, which also
includes Raseshwari Rajya Laxmi and Chaitanya Raj Singh of the royal family of Jaisalmer.
The school for 400 girls, from kindergarten to class 10, is set to open early next year.
Key points of the Campus:
• Passive Cooling Without AC.
• Optimized Aerodynamics & Natural Ventilation.
• Solar Energy Integration as Dual-Function Roof.
• Sustainable Water Management.
• Local Craftsmanship and Materials to Minimize Carbon Footprint.
3.2.4 Jaquar Headquarters, Haryana.
Location Haryana
Coordinates 28° N, 77° E
Occupancy Type Corporate and Manufacturing
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Composite
Project Area 48,000 m2
Date of Completion 2016
Grid Connectivity Grid-connected
Figure 3.6 Jaquar Headquarters. Figure 3.7 Dual Lighting system.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
The Jaguar Headquarters located at Manesar is not only a beautiful building but a meticulously
designed facility featuring cutting-edge technology solutions resulting in a net zero campus
with a certified LEED Platinum (USGBC) rating. This project is reputed for being a visual treat
with challenging organic design and space planning. It's a sprawling campus of 12 acres
(48,000 sq. m) designed to integrate the corporate office and a manufacturing facility in a
visually appealing and functional way. The architecture is a striking horizontal glass structure
topped with metaphorical eagle wings, representing the company's global aspirations. The
landscape features gardens and water bodies, emphasizing Jaquar's connection to water and its
focus on water conservation. The design of the building features interconnected water bodies
flowing from the atrium inside to a waterfall outside and culminates at the site's entrance.
3.2.5 Avasara Academy, Pune.
Location Lavale, Pune, Maharashtra
Coordinates 18° N, 73° E
Occupancy Type Academic
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Warm and Humid
Project Area 11,148 m2
Grid Connectivity Grid Connected
Figure 3.8 Avasara Academy, Pune. Figure 3.9 Utilization of Bamboos.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
Avasara Academy, a residential school campus located in the rocky agrarian valley of Lavale
in Maharashtra, consists of six similar buildings, each with classrooms on level 1 and 2, and
student dormitory and faculty residences on level 3 and 4. Its uncompromising architecture is
simple, climate-oriented, functional, sustainable, flexible, affordable, aesthetical, visually
exciting and inclusive. The bamboos are used for the following purposes,
• Sun protection: The bamboo screens act as shading devices, shielding the building from
direct sunlight and preventing excessive heat gain.
• Natural cooling: Bamboo's natural properties allow for air circulation while blocking
harsh sunlight, creating a cooling effect similar to traditional Indian jharokhas or jaali
screens.
• Enhanced energy efficiency: By reducing solar heat gain and the need for mechanical
cooling systems, the bamboo screens contribute significantly to the building's overall
energy efficiency.
• Sustainability: Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, making it an environmentally
friendly and sustainable building material choice.
3.2.6 Godrej Plant 13 Annexe, Mumbai.
Location Mumbai, Maharashtra
Coordinates 19° N, 73° E
Occupancy Type Office – Private
Typology New Construction
Climate Type Warm and Humid
Project Area 24,443 m2
Grid Connectivity Grid Connected
EPI 75 kWh/m2/yr
Figure 3.10 Godrej Plant, Vikhroli Mumbai.
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Chapter 3: Case Study
This facility is part of the larger Godrej & Boyce operations in Vikhroli and houses various
manufacturing units. The PL-13 Annexe Building has received "Excellent Energy Efficient
Unit" award and is certified by IGBC for being a Net-Zero Energy Building (NZEB). It
incorporates passive strategies like landscaping and daylight harvesting, along with a 120 kWp
rooftop solar PV system to meet 8% of its energy needs. Godrej Plant 13 Annexe stands as a
benchmark in retrofitting existing complex buildings into high-performance, net-zero energy
facilities. Through a “Be Lean Before Green” philosophy—emphasizing efficiency first and
renewables later—the project blends passive design, cutting-edge controls, operational rigor,
and renewable energy to deliver impactful sustainability dividends.
Key points of Plant-13 Annexe:
• Pioneering NZE Retrofit.
• Smart Passive Design.
• Renewable Energy Integration.
The exploration of various Net-Zero Energy buildings demonstrates that achieving complete
energy self-sufficiency is both technically feasible and economically viable when efficiency,
passive design, and renewable integration work in harmony. Each case—whether a new build
or a retrofit—proves that thoughtful architectural design, advanced systems, and sustainable
operational practices can drastically reduce environmental impact while maintaining comfort
and functionality. As climate challenges intensify, these projects stand as benchmarks for the
built environment, inspiring a shift toward energy-positive, resilient, and future-ready
infrastructure.
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