Eco Factor: Temple in Singapore generates renewable energy using solar and wind energy generators.
The Po Ern Shi Temple could well be the greenest temple in the world as it has achieved a carbon neutral status by generating all the energy it needs from renewable sources. The temple authorities have spent about SG$20m on modifications that include photovoltaic panels on the roof and the stupa and several small windmills that generate about 15MW of power each year.
The temple also has 7 large solar hot water heaters, which help in cooking food for about 1000 people and 22 resident Buddhist nuns. The temple is naturally ventilated and uses thermal mass of construction materials, while only a few areas of the temple rely on air conditioning.
A water collection, storage and purification system has also been introduced in the temple. Water from the roof falls nearly 25m to the basement level where it is collected. Engineers are also working on possible ways of generating electricity using rainwater before it is stored in the tanks for use.
While natural light is made to enter the temple complex during daytime, the interiors rely on energy saving LED and CFL lamps to provide illumination after dark.
Via: StraitsTimes/Celsias
