High-rise in Parel became a model of energy efficiency and sustainability

The high-rise residential redevelopment project involved the complete redevelopment of a 20-storey Residential tower in Parel, Mumbai. The client, Poddar Developers Pvt. Ltd., sought a fully integrated MEP design that would optimise energy use, meet fire and safety norms, and integrate seamlessly with smart building technologies.

Sukhakarta Electromech Engg Pvt Ltd: MEP Consultants were engaged from the concept stage to develop and coordinate all MEP systems for the project.

Objective

To meet high-performance, sustainability, and compliance standards and adhere to Mumbai’s Development Control Regulations (DCR), NBC 2016, and IGBC Green Building standards with efficiency.

Scope of Work

The project involved a total built-up area of 2,50,000 sq. ft. For attending to a range of building services, the scope of work included the HVAC design for a centralised chilled water system, ensuring efficient climate control and comfort. It also encompasses electrical system design, covering high-tension (HT) and low-tension (LT) panel layouts, transformer sizing, and UPS systems for uninterrupted power supply. Plumbing and drainage systems were addressed during the design and integration of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to manage wastewater.

The project also involves a fire detection and suppression system to ensure safety. A key aspect of the scope was the integration of Building Management Systems (BMS), which included smart lighting and HVAC controls to improve operational efficiency and sustainability. The provisions for rainwater harvesting and solar PV integration were included to generate renewable energy. The entire coordination was at BIM Level 300, ensuring accurate modeling and smooth collaboration.

Solution: Design Highlights

• HVAC System: A Variable Primary Flow chilled water system was utilised, featuring high-efficiency chillers and air handling units (AHUs) on each floor. Fresh air units with heat recovery ensured improved indoor air quality and reduced cooling loads.
• Electrical System: Sukhakarta Electromech Engg designed a dual-source electrical supply system (grid + diesel genset backup) to ensure business continuity. Power factor correction panels and energy-efficient lighting reduced electrical loads by over 18 percent.
• Water Management: Low-flow fixtures, dual plumbing lines, and a 120 KLD STP helped reduce water consumption by 35 percent. Recycled water was used for flushing and landscaping.
• Fire Safety: The design included an addressable fire alarm system, sprinkler systems, and a fireman’s lift as per CFO norms. Coordination with the Mumbai Fire Department ensured that approvals were secured without delay.
• Sustainability Measures: Solar panels were installed on the roof to provide 5 percent of the building’s electrical load, and daylight sensors were integrated into open office areas to reduce lighting loads.

Execution challenges

The project encountered several execution challenges that necessitated careful planning and coordination. Operating within a dense urban environment posed space constraints, limiting equipment staging and material deliveries. To overcome this, modular prefabrication of AHUs and electrical panels was adopted, reducing on-site congestion and improving installation efficiency.

Another major challenge arose from the redevelopment of a site with existing underground services, where legacy systems required careful mapping of the existing plumbing and electrical systems. To prevent service clashes and ensure precise reinstallation, 3D scanning and BIM technologies were employed.

Yet, another challenge was coordinating among multiple contractors and vendors, necessitating regular design reviews and a high volume of RFIs. It was accomplished through weekly coordination meetings and the use of centralised documentation platforms, such as BIM 360, which facilitated effective communication and streamlined workflows.

Outcome and Result

The project delivered performance improvements and client satisfaction.

Energy efficiency targets were met, with the building achieving a 21 percent reduction in energy consumption compared to the ASHRAE 90.1 baseline. Water efficiency was also a key success, with a 35 percent reduction in potable water usage achieved through the implementation of greywater recycling systems and the installation of water-efficient fixtures.

Despite challenges such as delays caused by the monsoon season, the project was completed within 2 months of the scheduled deadline.

The client, Poddar Developers, commended the consulting team for their proactive coordination and the smooth integration of MEP systems with the overall architectural intent, resulting in a well-executed and cohesive project.