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The use of 2.5sqmm wires per circuit has been a long-standing practice since the tungsten era. Back then, it made sense to use such thick wires, given the high-power consumption of tungsten bulbs. However, times have changed, and technology has evolved at an astonishing pace. We are now in the era of LED lights, which have revolutionized the way we illuminate our spaces. Yet, surprisingly, we still find ourselves using 2.5sqmm wires for LED lights. This raises the question: Is this a deliberate attempt by manufacturers, contractors, or distributors to deceive us? Why do we continue to use wires that exceed the required capacity by such a significant margin?

Consultants mistakenly count outlets as electrical loads rather than recognizing them mainly for convenience. This oversight leads to inefficient designs, emphasizing outlet numbers over actual electrical demands.

The National Building Code (NBC) faces scrutiny for maintaining 45 liters per capita per day (LPCD) standard for water consumption in office buildings. Consultants contend that this policy is outdated and fails to align with contemporary water conservation practices, leading to increased capacities and higher costs. Initially established to ensure an adequate water supply for occupants, the rigidity of the 45LPCD standard is now a point of disagreement as advancements in water-saving technologies and environmental awareness take precedence. The resistance to modifying this policy reflects an outdated mindset that neglects the environmental and economic implications.

The conventional understanding has long dictated an electrical rule of thumb: 8VA/sqft. However, as we find ourselves well into the 21st century, it becomes increasingly evident that this standard, rooted in the 1980s, is outdated and in need of reevaluation. One might wonder, why persist with 8VA/sqft when technological advancements have transformed the landscape of energy efficiency? The shift from cathode-ray tube computer (CRT: 250W) to light-emitting diode (LED) display computer (60W), the replacement of tungsten bulbs with LED lighting, and the evolution of chiller efficiency from 1.2 kW/ton of refrigeration (kW/tr) to a mere 0.4 kW/tr are testament to the progress we’ve made in optimizing energy consumption.

The persistent problems of drainage smell, clogging, and flooding in urban spaces demand a critical reassessment of the design approaches. The conventional methods that we have been relying on are clearly falling short, and it’s time to acknowledge that. Zero discharge buildings are not just a trendy concept, they’re a necessity. The stench from poorly managed drainage systems and the inconvenience caused by incessant flooding are warning signs that the designs are out of touch with the urgent needs of the modern world. It’s time to break away from the status quo and embrace sustainable drainage solutions.

In the domain of construction relying on rule-of-thumb approaches has long provided a quick and convenient guide. The conventional wisdom of the 200– 300 sq ft/ TR rule for estimating cooling loads may not be the most prudent choice. Similarly using rule of thumb for electrical load “6 VA / sqft”.

Electricity is initially generated at 11 kV and then stepped up to higher voltages for long-distance transmission. The power travels through a network of high voltage lines into the grid, which connects to cities through substations. These substations step the voltage down to 11 kV for distribution to load points via a network of lines. The distribution network includes feeders that branch into subsidiary lines, delivering power to various locations. Transformers at load points further reduce the voltage (LT), providing the last-mile connection to individual customers at either 240 V or 415 V. Feeder lengths vary based on urban or rural areas, with longer feeders leading to potential low voltage issues at the consumer end.

When it comes to evaluating the sustainability of a building, the Energy Performance Index (EPI) plays a pivotal role. These remarkable structures have been honored as Platinum Rated Buildings for their sustainable qualities. Nevertheless, there’s a deeper layer to these edifices that often leaves their platinum status open to scrutiny.

Residents living on the top floor of the building face a considerable heating problem, particularly during scorching summers. Roof temperatures can rise to an unbearable 50°-60° Celsius which can make life pretty hard. There are often no signs of relief even during the nighttime, as the heat absorbed during the day re-radiates into living spaces.

The building envelope comprises walls, roof, and fenestration (openings including windows, doors, vents, etc.). The design of the building envelope influences heat gain/loss, natural ventilation, and daylighting, which, in turn, determines indoor temperatures, thermal comfort, and sensible cooling/heating demand.