Smart buildings key to cutting power use: expert

Dr. Mohammed Saif al-Kuwari, an international expert on sustainability applications, believes that smart and sustainable buildings can significantly reduce electricity consumption. Speaking on Qatar TV’s Our Life programme, he explained that modern buildings should be viewed as integrated systems, rather than just walls, air-conditioning and lighting.

By focusing on efficient energy, water and resource use, buildings can cut electricity use by 20% to 40% compared to conventional buildings, depending on factors like design and technology.

Water-saving systems, smart irrigation and the reuse of certain water sources can also reduce consumption by 30% to 50% in specific applications. As temperatures rise and cooling demands increase, improving building efficiency has become more crucial. This not only brings economic benefits by lowering operating costs but also reduces emissions associated with energy production.

According to al-Kuwari, sustainability should start during the early design stages, incorporating proper building orientation, strategic facade and window planning, sunshades, awnings, thermal insulation and high-efficiency glazing. He cautioned against excessive or unplanned glass use, emphasizing that proper glazing—like double-, triple-, or low-emissivity glass—can significantly minimize heat gain.

Thermal insulation is especially important in hot climates, as it limits heat transfer into buildings and reduces the strain on air-conditioning systems throughout their lifespan.

He further stressed the importance of efficient air-conditioning systems, high-rated equipment, variable-speed motors and fans, and regular maintenance. Cooling capacity should be determined based on actual heat loads. While solar energy remains a valuable option within Qatar’s sustainability framework, it should be complemented by reducing consumption, rather than being the primary solution. Installing solar panels alone won't address issues stemming from poor building design.

Although sustainable construction may increase initial costs by 3% to 7%, these expenses can be recouped within three to seven years, depending on project size, energy and water prices, and operating requirements. Al-Kuwari also advocated for a national building performance index that measures electricity and water use, as well as emissions per square meter.

Such an index would help transition the sector from focusing solely on design sustainability to achieving actual performance sustainability, supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030.