What is GRIHA?
GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) is India’s national rating system for green buildings, which evaluates the environmental performance of a building holistically over its entire life cycle, thereby providing a definitive standard for what constitutes a ‘green building’.
Who governs the GRIHA rating system?
The GRIHA Council, an independent, not-for-profit society jointly setup by the Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), India, administers GRIHA.
Why is GRIHA important?
GRIHA is important as it helps in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible building practices. It incorporates India’s national priorities like water conservation, energy efficiency, and material conservation.
How is GRIHA rating awarded?
Buildings are assessed based on mandatory and optional criteria categorized under various aspects like energy consumption, waste generation, renewable energy adoption, etc. Based on the points accumulated, a GRIHA rating of one to five stars is awarded.
Is GRIHA certification mandatory?
While GRIHA certification is not mandatory for all buildings, certain government buildings and projects may be required to obtain it. It is also incentivized through various government benefits and concessions.
Can existing buildings apply for GRIHA?
Yes, GRIHA has a separate rating system called GRIHA for Existing Buildings which assesses and rates the environmental performance of existing buildings.
How does GRIHA benefit builders and occupants?
For builders, it can lead to an increase in building value, ease of obtaining environmental clearances, and potential tax benefits. For occupants, it ensures a healthier living environment and can lead to lower utility bills due to energy and water efficiency measures.
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