The International Renewable Energy Agency’s (IRENA) new 31,983 square-meters global headquarter is amongst the greenest buildings in Abu Dhabi. BSBG, the architects and lead consultant behind the project, worked closely with Brookfield Multiplex and AESG in designing the first office building to be awarded an Estidama 4-Pearl rating by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC). The Estidama Construction Rating Certificate managed by the UPC is the Arab world’s sustainable rating system designed to evaluate the performance of developments, buildings and dwellings.
The project completion it is a significant milestone in the development of Masdar City. “Its timely delivery underscores Masdar City’s leadership as a model of sustainable design and urban development within the UAE and globally” said Dr Ahmad Belhoul CEO at Masdar. “The four-Pearl rating sets a new benchmark for sustainable design and showcases how high-performance buildings can reduce energy and water consumption, while remaining cost competitive” added Dr Belhoul
A single rooftop links three buildings creating a shared space within a common atrium. The atrium connects the offices to open spaces where shopping, dining and experiencing the modern sustainable lifestyle of Masdar City is enabled for the people. In the city of Masdar sustainable solutions is seen as essential part of the design and the IRENA HQ is not an exception. Sun shielding panels and a strategic window design obstruct solar radiation from entering the building 90% of the time, without comprehending the view from inside. On the rooftop a 1000 square meters solar photovoltaic power system generates green power for the office building. Furthermore solar water heaters are implemented expected to cover up to 75% of the annual hot water demand. The outer skin of the buildings are fitted with high-performance tinted glass complete with sun-shielding fins to reduce the intense solar heat gain without obstructing the view from inside. High-efficiency insulation is also used to optimise energy savings. Low-carbon cement as well as recycled steel and locally sourced construction materials are part of the sustainable procurement approach.
Thanks to a combination of active and passive strategies, the building is expected to achieve 40% energy saving and 53% reduction in water usage compared to buildings not certified under the Estidama Pearl-Rating System. Well done!
