The National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) is spearheading a range of initiatives to promote energy efficiency in the building sector. One significant intervention is the development and implementation of Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC). Talking to WealthPK on the condition of anonymity, an official of the Authority said, "NEECA is taking the lead in a series of initiatives aimed at fostering energy efficiency in the building sector. A key initiative involves the formulation and execution of ECBC. It will provide a roadmap for sustainable development, ensuring that every new building adheres to energy-efficient practices and incorporates cutting-edge technologies." The ECBC-2023 covers designing and constructing new buildings and systems, installing new equipment in existing buildings, exceeding electricity load limits, and retrofitting conventional buildings to enhance energy efficiency. The revised code focuses on high-end domestic and commercial consumers and aims to conserve energy without compromising public safety. Every effort has been made to ensure that this new code does not unnecessarily increase costs or restrict the use of new materials and technologies.

"The authority also focuses mostly on excessive energy usage in industry, agriculture, transportation, electricity, and buildings, which is putting enormous strain on the country's resources. NEECA has begun work on a product energy efficiency labelling program because consumer awareness can increase demand for energy-efficient equipment." Afia Malik, an energy expert and senior research economist at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), told WealthPK, "The building sector (residential, commercial, and public) of Pakistan has been continuously growing for the past two decades. The swift urbanization in Pakistan is driving a significant increase in construction activities and a heightened requirement for energy. As the building sector expands, prioritizing energy efficiency becomes crucial." Dr. Afia emphasized the potential impact of this integration, stating, "The ECBC is a crucial tool that can reshape the construction landscape. This move is expected to transform the construction industry and promote sustainable practices, ultimately reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions."

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)