The Ministry of Science & Technology in India has recently revealed plans to back an innovative start-up focusing on daylight harvesting technology. This move aims to lessen the carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency in buildings. The ministry will contribute Rs 5 Crore towards the Rs 10 Crore project, with the funds going to Skyshade company, which will focus on inventing modern technologies for persistent basement illumination.
Understanding Daylight Harvesting
Daylight Harvesting is a technique aimed at reducing energy costs associated with lighting by maximizing the use of sunlight. The solar energy spectrum consists of around 45% visible light, which can be used to provide building illumination for approximately 9-11 hours daily.
This advanced method, integral to modern sustainable lighting designs, adjusts the brightness of light according to the availability of natural light in a space. By using natural daylight from windows or skylights, the need for artificial lighting and therefore energy usage is significantly decreased.
The daylight harvesting system utilizes light or photocell sensors to gauge the existing light level in the environment. These sensors then transmit the intensity of received light to a controller linked with the lighting control system. This control system then adjusts the electric lights automatically based on the received light level.
The Importance of Daylight Harvesting
Daylight harvesting holds significant importance due to its multiple benefits.
Firstly, it leads to considerable Energy Savings by dimming or switching off lights depending on the amount of natural daylight entering the room.
Secondly, this system Provides Comfort and Convenience as it helps to maintain the appropriate light intensity in a space by continuously and automatically adjusting lights.
Thirdly, it creates Healthier Working Conditions. The correct amount of light aids in managing suitable circadian rhythms that are essential for good health, adequate sleep and in preventing seasonal affective disorders. Circadian rhythm is a 24-hour cycle informing our bodies when to sleep, get up, and eat while controlling various physiological processes. Allowing natural light into the workplace enhances focus, fosters a positive mood, and promotes a healthier lifestyle for employees.
Lastly, it helps to reduce Carbon Emission. As daylight is universally accessible and is an extremely clean, cost-efficient energy source, relying on daylight harvesting technology for our daytime energy requirements can help towards making India a Net Zero emission country by 2070, in line with the PANCHAMRIT commitment.
Other Initiatives Encouraging Energy Efficiency
Alongside daylight harvesting, there are several other initiatives that are promoting energy efficiency. These include the Perform Achieve and Trade Scheme (PAT), Standards and Labeling, the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), Demand Side Management, ECO Niwas Samhita, and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. These additional steps, combined with daylight harvesting, could greatly increase the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings and significantly reduce the overall environmental impact.
