Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has launched the National Green Certificates Program, aimed at promoting environmentally friendly building practices. The initiative aligns with the National Demand-side Management Program and the National Green Building Regulation.
The National Green Certificates Program establishes standards for building classification focused on energy efficiency, water management, indoor air quality, and the use of sustainable building materials.
MoEI will provide technical support and consultations for participating businesses to ensure the highest levels of sustainability.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that, “The Program provides a framework for classifications and requirements to enhance sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint of commercial buildings. It ensures that the latest world-class criteria for sustainable buildings are applied. At the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, we are committed to advancing sustainable, environment-friendly practices across the board. This Program is another step in our journey towards a green economy and sustainable development.”
Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, emphasized that the Program is in line with the ministry’s dedication to integrating environmental sustainability and decarbonization measures in the building sector. Sharif Al Olama noted that it will help reduce energy and water consumption and significantly cut the sector’s carbon footprint, contributing to the UAE’s net-zero target by 2050 and building infrastructure to meet future development needs.
The MoEI has signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to support the Program:
- With Abu Dhabi Bank: This MoU explores potential collaborations in green finance solutions to enhance the UAE’s built environment sector. It includes participation in the National Green Certificates Program, supporting the UAE’s energy efficiency targets through innovative financing solutions, and developing and promoting green finance products for the built environment sector.
- Aldar Properties: It focuses on implementing green finance solutions to enhance the built environment sector. Aldar Properties will participate in the Program, explore financing opportunities, provide technical services, and implement joint initiatives to promote energy-efficient practices and technologies.
- Pact Carbon: The MoU involves Pact Carbon joining the Program to support participants in accessing global markets to sell carbon credits.
- Meagle Energy: This MoU establishes a framework for cooperation to provide energy auditing and Measurement and Verification (M&V) services for the National Green Certificates Program. Meagle Energy will conduct energy audits in accordance with MoEI standards and guidelines.
These collaborations signify a collective effort to advance sustainable building practices, reduce the carbon footprint, and achieve the UAE’s environmental goals.