The Gujarat state government has introduced a new policy to incentivize the construction of green buildings. The policy offers Floor Space Index (FSI) incentives for buildings that are rated by agencies like GRIHA, IGBC, and LEED, with the exemption ranging from 7% to 12% of the chargeable FSI. However, the government has also imposed penalties for non-compliance, with buildings that fail to obtain the required rating facing a penalty twice the amount of the incentive FSI. The policy aims to promote sustainable development and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly building practices in the state.
The Gujarat state government has introduced Floor Space Index (FSI) incentives for the construction of green buildings in the common general development control regulations (CGDCR). This move aims to promote sustainable development through the construction of eco-friendly buildings.
Buildings that are rated by agencies like GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment), IGBC (Indian Green Building Council), and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) will be eligible for an exemption of 7% to 12% of the chargeable FSI, depending on the rating they receive.
However, the government has also imposed penalties for buildings that do not comply with the green building requirements. If the applicant fails to obtain the rating certification at the time of applying for the Building Use (BU) permission, the penalty will be twice the amount of the incentive FSI, as per the notification dated September 5. The designated rating agencies will be responsible for conducting periodic inspections of the green buildings.
Projects that are under construction as of the notification date and have pre-certification from any of the aforementioned rating agencies will also be eligible for the incentive FSI. The amount of chargeable FSI that will be reimbursed as incentive FSI will be paid to the developer at the time of granting the BU permission.
Green buildings are designed to use less energy, water, and natural resources, create less waste, and provide a healthier environment for the occupants compared to standard buildings. They typically consume 40% to 50% less energy and 20% to 30% less water than regular buildings.
GRIHA is India's national rating system for green buildings, suitable for various types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and institutional, across different climatic zones.
The Gujarat government's move to incentivize green building development is a significant step towards creating a more sustainable built environment. By offering tangible benefits to developers who prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental responsibility, the state is paving the way for a future where green buildings become the norm rather than the exception. As more states follow suit, the adoption of green building practices can become a nationwide movement, transforming the way we construct and inhabit our built spaces.