Ras Al Khaimah Municipality has announced the official launch of its Barjeel Green Building Regulations, which is being seen as an important milestone in the urban development and modernisation of the northern emirate.
Barjeel, which covers all new buildings in the emirate, is the most important programme of the RAK Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Strategy 2040 established under the patronage of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
The strategy targets 30 per cent savings in the energy sector, 20 per cent in the water sector besides netting 20 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2040, with Barjeel contributing the largest share of energy and water savings.
The launch was held in the presence of Sheikh Saud at a stakeholder workshop which was attended by senior government officials, developers, consultants and contractors.
In 2018, RAK Municipality held broad stakeholder workshops, as part of the consultation process for Barjeel. The resulting regulations were designed to be simple and focused primarily on energy and water efficiency, with clear economic benefits.
According to senior officials, buildings in line with Barjeel are expected to consume 30 per cent less water and energy, with minimal impact on construction costs. This will translate into strong, direct economic benefits for Ras Al Khaimah, they stated.
Barjeel will also bring other indirect benefits to the emirate as part of the savings from the regulations are expected to be spent or reinvested in the local economy.
Also, the development of a supply market for green products and services will elevate the capabilities of local firms, they added.
RAK Municipality director general Munther Mohammed bin Shekar said: "Thousands of buildings are being developed in Ras Al Khaimah every year, and through Barjeel, we will ensure that these new buildings embed higher sustainability standards."
"A more efficient building stock reduces the costs for residents and businesses and supports the competitiveness of our economy," he stated.
To allow time for the market to adapt to the new regulations, Barjeel is being introduced gradually, starting with a voluntary phase this month.
RAK Municipality is taking several steps to support a smooth implementation, including consultant and contractor training, and financial incentives for early Barjeel adopters, noted Shekar.
“Contribution from the private sector is essential for the successful implementation of Barjeel. Therefore, we welcome early adopters of Barjeel, and during the voluntary period we will encourage them with reduced building permit fees,” he added.
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