| New buildings to become energy wise |
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| Written by Emily Visser | |
| Wednesday, 13 February 2008 | |
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In efforts to save energy, Johannesburg has laid down a number of new requirements for buildings. It is also encouraging retrofitting old buildings with energy efficiency measures. 
Philip Harrison, the executive director of development planning and urban management says new developments must be energy efficient
POWER supply shortages are expected to put the squeeze on new property development in Johannesburg. Starting immediately, a set of basic requirements for energy efficient development will be considered in the adjudication of all development applications sent in to the City. "All building plans and site development plans will, in future, be evaluated in terms of measures to promote low energy consumption buildings," Philip Harrison, the executive director of development planning and urban management, confirmed in a statement issued on 11 February. The approval of new building plans will specifically consider two criteria: the natural heating provided in winter through north-facing buildings; and buildings allowing eave overhangs of at least 700mm on north, east and west facades, facilitating shade in summer and sun penetration in winter. Other measures that will be strongly encouraged include solar water heating systems, roof insulation, energy efficient light fittings, and motion or timer sensors on lights, air conditioners and geysers. The new requirements will force property developers and home builders to ensure greater energy efficiency and will cut demand for electricity. They will apply to City-initiated projects as well as private sector developments. Initially the new requirements will rely on voluntary compliance; however, Harrison confirmed that they may soon be regulated. Service agreements will be signed by successful applicants, guaranteeing delivery. The City was committed to growing Joburg's economy but believed that the effect of growth on its energy infrastructure had to be minimised as far as possible, Harrison said. In light of this, his department had consulted extensively with various property associations, town planners and academics to come up with new measures for energy efficient development. Harrison felt that the move could bring about positive changes. "We can also use the current [energy] crisis to shift unsustainable patterns of growth in the city on to a sustainable trajectory."
Retrofitting Over the next five years, the City hopes to reduce electricity consumption in Johannesburg by 25 Megawatt hours. It is working towards becoming energy efficient and is busy retrofitting selected council buildings with energy efficient lighting. This project will eventually be extended to all council-owned buildings and street lighting. The Clinton Foundation and the City are working closely together on this initiative. Other plans include introducing energy efficient pump systems at its water treatment works; installing solar heaters in houses in Cosmo City; and solar street lighting at the Zevenfontein informal settlement. In addition, Joburg is a partner in the EnerKey Programme, a research programme initiated two years ago between South Africa and Germany to promote and develop greater energy efficiency in large metros. It will run over the next seven years. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is helping the City to draw up guidelines for energy efficient buildings and in promoting the project among developers. For more information on the new building requirements, contact the department of development planning and urban management on 011 407 6904.
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