Tamil Nadu Issues Cool Roof SOP

Tamil Nadu released India’s first state-level Standard Operating Procedure for Cool Roof Coating Application on 5 June 2026, which is World Environment Day. The document sets a framework for cool roof initiatives as a passive cooling measure for homes, schools, and public buildings.

Cool Roof Coating

Cool roof coating is a surface treatment with high solar reflectance and thermal emittance. It reduces heat absorption by building roofs and lowers indoor temperatures in hot climates.

Implementation Framework

The SOP provides a 12-stage implementation process. It covers feasibility assessment, material procurement, application methods, quality assurance, and periodic maintenance. The SOP recommends coatings with a Solar Reflective Index of 102. The framework is intended for use in residential buildings, educational institutions, and public facilities across Tamil Nadu.

Pilot Projects in Tamil Nadu

Pilot projects were carried out in a government school in Chennai and a housing complex in Perumbakkam. These pilots recorded indoor temperature reductions of up to 5°C, and some locations recorded reductions of up to 8°C. The Perumbakkam intervention also recorded a 20% reduction in cooling energy demand and nearly 30% fewer thermal discomfort hours.

Institutional and Policy Context

The SOP was developed by the Tamil Nadu Green Climate Company and the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme and Seeds Technical Services. As of January 2026, the cool roofing initiative under the Green School Programme was included in the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission Action Plan for 2025–26, with a plan to extend it to 300 government schools.

Important Facts for Exams

• World Environment Day is observed on 5 June every year.
• Solar Reflective Index is a measure used to assess a surface’s ability to reflect solar heat.
• Passive cooling refers to building design or materials that reduce heat without mechanical air-conditioning.
• The United Nations Environment Programme is a United Nations agency working on environmental issues.