Mahindra Eden Bengaluru is First Net Zero Energy Residential Project in India

Mahindra Lifespace Developers has set a new standard for sustainable development in India by launching India's first net zero energy residential project, Mahindra Eden, in Bengaluru.

Mahindra Eden is certified green by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The development's innovative architectural characteristics are estimated to save over 18 lakh kWh of energy yearly, the equivalent of powering over 800 houses. The project's remaining energy requirement will be fulfilled by renewable sources, including on-site solar and wind energy systems, as well as green energy purchased from the grid.

The announcement is a significant step forward in Mahindra Lifespaces' goal to develop exclusively net-zero buildings by 2030.

"Global climate change is one of the most important concerns, and buildings alone account for around 36% of total energy use and close to 40% of carbon emissions," stated Arvind Subramanian, MD and CEO, Mahindra Lifespace Developers. 

We were eager to take the next step in sustainable design and development as a pioneer in sustainable development with a 100 percent certified-green portfolio. Building net-zero houses is a critical component of a low-carbon future and hence a critical answer to climate change, and we are dedicated to taking a leadership role in the real estate sector's energy transformation. 

Today, "we commit to developing net zero buildings only after 2030, as part of our commitment to the Mahindra Group's 2040 carbon neutrality aspirations."

Mahindra Eden was developed using climate-responsive design strategies and energy conservation measures, including optimal building orientation to maximise natural light and ventilation, optimal shading for windows and balconies, SRI paints on the roof and exterior walls for high heat reflectivity, high-performance glass on windows and balconies to reduce heat infiltration through the building envelope, and energy efficient lighting and equipment. Elevators using variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) technology will be used in the building, which will consume less energy during acceleration and deceleration.

Additionally, the project has a number of sustainability elements common to Mahindra Lifespaces projects, such as low-flow water saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and a sewage treatment facility. This will assist lower the project's water use by 74% when compared to traditional buildings. Additionally, the project will include sustainable practises such as waste segregation, composting, and trash recycling via the use of a resource recovery centre and vendor relationships. 

E-waste management will remove 100% of yearly e-waste from landfills, making this a zero-waste initiative.

Along with energy, water, and waste efficiency, the project is meant to be 'nature positive,' maintaining and nurturing more than 100 plant species, over 25 bird species, and over 25 butterfly species. Additionally, efforts will be made to naturalise and streamline the project's waterbodies. The project was planned with about 85% open area.

Mahindra Eden is spread over 7.74 acres and its nature-friendly facilities have been deliberately constructed with the natural eco-system in mind as well as the changing demands of homeowners. Botanical and therapeutic gardens, yoga and meditation rooms, an open-air reading lounge, and solar-powered work pods are among the nature-inspired facilities. 

Additionally, the project includes a cycling and running track, a camping zone, a children's play area, and an outdoor gym. Mahindra Eden's distinguishing feature is its pushkarni-themed environmental pond, which is evocative of the region's historic temples.

Residents will have easy access to vital transportation hubs such as the Vajarahalli Metro Station (1 kilometre) and the NICE road intersection (3KM). Kanakpura Road is also well linked to Bannerghatta, Silk Board, and Electronic City, three of Bengaluru's major job centres.