UAE Unveils National Green Certificates Programme For Sustainable Building

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has introduced the National Green Certificates Programme. This initiative aims to encourage eco-friendly building practices, aligning with the goals of the National Demand-side Management Programme and the National Green Building Regulation.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated, "The Programme is a framework for classifications and requirements for enhancing sustainability and cutting down the carbon footprint of commercial buildings through identifying unified basics that ensure the latest world-class criteria for sustainable buildings are applied. We at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure are committed to advancing sustainable, environment-friendly practices across the board. The Programme is another step in our journey to drive a green economy and sustainable development."

To bolster the Programme, MoEI signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). The first MoU was with First Abu Dhabi Bank. They agreed to explore collaborations in green finance solutions to improve the UAE's built environment sector. This includes participation in the National Green Certificates Programme and supporting energy efficiency targets through innovative financing solutions.

The second MoU was with Aldar Properties. This agreement focuses on implementing green finance solutions tailored to enhance the built environment sector in the UAE. It includes Aldar Properties' participation in the Programme, exploring financing options, and providing technical services.

MoEI will offer technical support and consultations for participating businesses to ensure maximum sustainability. The standards set by the National Green Certificates Programme cover energy efficiency, water management, indoor air quality, and sustainable building materials use.

The third MoU was with Pact Carbon. This partnership allows Pact Carbon to join the Programme and assist other participants in accessing global markets to sell carbon credits.

Energy Auditing Services

The fourth MoU was signed with Meagle Energy. This agreement establishes a cooperation framework between parties to provide energy auditing and Measurement and Verification (M&V) services for the National Green Certificates Programme. Meagle Energy will conduct energy audits following MoEI's standards and guidelines.

Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, mentioned that this Programme aligns with their commitment to integrating environmental sustainability measures in the building sector. It aims to reduce energy and water consumption while decreasing the sector's carbon footprint.

This initiative supports UAE's net-zero by 2050 target by helping build infrastructure that meets future development needs. The collaboration with various entities ensures comprehensive support for achieving these sustainability goals.

With inputs from WAM