Atal Akshaya Urja Bhavan: India’s First Net-Positive Energy Office Building in New Delhi

The Atal Akshaya Urja Bhavan Office Building, designed by Edifice Consultants Pvt. Ltd, is a groundbreaking example of sustainable architecture in India. Situated in New Delhi’s prestigious CGO Complex along Lodhi Road, this expansive 410,618 ft² facility serves as the headquarters for the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Completed in 2022, it stands as India’s first net-positive energy building and a pioneering symbol of energy-efficient, environmentally conscious design in the nation’s capital.

Location & Context

Nestled in a prime 2.7-acre site, the building enjoys proximity to iconic landmarks like the India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Gardens, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This strategic location enhances public access, further amplified by nearby metro connectivity, emphasizing the building’s role as both a working campus and an engaging public space. The architecture thoughtfully draws inspiration from its surroundings—integrating the cultural magnetism of the India Habitat Centre, the verdant serenity of Lodhi Gardens, and the bold symbolism of the stadium.

Sustainable Design Philosophy

Atal Akshaya Urja Bhavan exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainability, merging passive design principles with cutting-edge renewable energy technologies to create a net-positive energy campus. Its design showcases the Ministry’s mission by setting a new benchmark for sustainable government buildings across India.

Key sustainable design strategies include:

• Optimal building orientation along the north-south axis to maximize solar gain and natural ventilation.
• Extensive rooftop solar panel installation spanning 65,000 square feet, generating approximately 1,100 kW of power and producing an estimated 19 lakh energy units annually.
• Innovative passive cooling techniques including radiant cooling systems using water-cooled screw-chilling machines embedded in ceilings.
• Thermally insulated façades with double-glass units and double walls using AAC masonry and glass wool infill.
• Use of GFRC jaalis for cross ventilation and to support climber plants, contributing to natural cooling.
• Rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling for irrigation and cooling purposes.
• Landscaping with indigenous, drought-tolerant flora powered by solar energy.

Architectural Features

The building’s form is divided into two distinct wings—north and south—linked by a soaring central atrium that acts as the main entrance and circulation hub. The south wing is angled to improve the arrival experience and maximize daylight from the north, while service and circulation zones are tactically placed on the west side to shield workspaces from intense afternoon sun.

The ground floor merges seamlessly with the landscape, housing community-centric amenities such as a creche, bank, exhibition spaces, auditorium, and visitors’ center. Upper floors offer expansive workspaces flooded with natural light, ensuring productivity alongside privacy. The eighth floor is reserved for key government officials, offering panoramic views of New Delhi’s skyline.

A unique feature is the Urja Pavilion, an interactive urban plaza featuring solar sculptures and installations designed to demystify and celebrate renewable energy. Positioned near the JLN metro station, it bridges the public realm and government campus, inviting citizen engagement and education.

Materials & Construction

Reflecting the heritage of Lutyens’ Delhi, the building’s façade employs warm beige Dholpur sandstone complemented by modern glass elements. This material choice balances tradition with contemporary aesthetics, reinforcing the building’s identity as a landmark in sustainable public architecture.

The use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient fixtures underscores the commitment to environmental responsibility. Construction and consulting teams included experts across structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, landscape, and HVAC disciplines, ensuring integrated project delivery.

Impact & Legacy

The Atal Akshaya Urja Bhavan is more than just an office building; it’s a prototype for future sustainable development in India. By achieving net-positive energy status, it reduces the carbon footprint of government operations while educating the public about renewable energy and environmental stewardship.

All photographs are works of  Purnesh Dev, Prashant Bhat