Energy Consumption Crisis
It is common knowledge that Qatar – like most parts of the Middle East –is an extremely hot country. However, interestingly, Qatar uses more air conditioning than any other country in the world. In fact, this extensive use of chillers is one of the chief reasons why Qatar now has the ‘highest carbon emissions per capita in the world’.
As Qatar’s population increases and investment in infrastructure remains a priority in order to achieve the ambitious goals of Qatar’s National vision 2030, it is vital that appropriate consideration be given to optimizing energy consumption and reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Whilst the Qatari government is doing much to support the ‘green initiative’, many energy efficiency policies and measures are still at an early stage in Qatar.
Buildings Could Hold the Key
Currently, energy usage in buildings accounts for almost 40% of global consumption, and this figure is even greater in Qatar. With approximately 80% of the electricity in Qatari buildings used to provide air conditioning, there appears to be a huge opportunity to considerably reduce national consumption by improving energy efficiency within buildings. One of the latest and most effective ways is through the correct use of insulation.
Insulation is widely recognized as a key component in achieving greater energy efficiency within both new and existing buildings. With its unique ability to reduce energy consumption and reliance on cooling systems, well insulated structures could not only deliver optimum indoor air quality but also ensure a healthier and safer environment for home owners and office occupants.
“The heat and humidity of Qatar causes a higher rate of power consumption due to the high usage of air conditioning systems. The correct use of building insulation – particularly thermal – is a key advancement that not only reduces electrical consumption – thus saving money and the country's energy resources – but also creates a more comfortable living and working atmosphere.” Says InsulationTech Conference Director, Niall Watson.
The InsulationTech Experience
Taking place in the Intercontinental – The City hotel in Doha, 10-11 December 2014, InsulationTech Qatar is a specialized conference designed to explore advanced materials, techniques and strategies for effectively insulating buildings and thermal systems to achieve these goals.
Sharing their experience and expertise will include some of the regions most recognized sustainability experts, including:
Alex Amato, Head of Sustainability, Qatar Green Building Council; Jane Boyle, Associate Director – Head of Sustainability & Energy, WSP Middle East; Doyoon Kim, Senior Sustainability Engineer, ASTAD; Kamal Taj, Head of Mechanical Engineering Department Design Division, KEO; Alex Mozaffari, Sustainability Manager, Impregilo (Doha Metro Project) and many more.
We spent a considerable amount of time researching the programme as we were determined to bring perspectives from not only sustainability experts but also experienced design consultants and engineers operating within major contracting firms and developers, to provide our guests with a broader insight into the challenges and opportunities in the region” continues Niall Watson.
For further information about the conference, please visit www.insulationtechqatar.com
ifpinfo
14 November
