Siemens is to retrofit 60 government buildings in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with technology focused on energy efficiency and user comfort.

The contract with the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (www.moei.gov.ae) is for a decarbonisation programme that forms part of the UAE’s strategy to achieve its net zero 2050 targets. It is intended to save up to 27 per cent baseline energy and water consumption annually.

The energy saving goal is equivalent to a CO₂ reduction of 15,400 metric tons. The programme follows a comprehensive study in which Siemens implemented retrofits in a representative sample of seven of the ministry’s buildings, creating a baseline of energy consumption and an analysis of anomalies to inform the selection of buildings for the retrofit programme.

“This programme with Siemens is a testament to our commitment to setting a global standard for sustainability and efficiency in the built environment,” said Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, minister of energy and infrastructure for the UAE. “The UAE is dedicated to leading by example, and this retrofitting initiative is a crucial step in our journey towards achieving our long-term environmental goals. The ministry’s strategy, stemming from the broader UAE strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, encompasses a holistic approach to the sustainable development of key industries like energy, infrastructure, real estate and transportation. This programme, which is initially targeting healthcare and education facilities, marks a vital step in our country’s rapid journey to decarbonise all sectors of the economy.”

Matthias Rebellius, managing board member of Siemens, added: “We’re delighted to partner with the UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure on this pioneering decarbonisation programme. To accelerate decarbonisation, we will deploy innovative and scalable options such as this programme, which will serve as a blueprint for decarbonising buildings. Together with the ministry, we will not only boost the energy efficiency of buildings, but also significantly contribute to the UAE’s sustainability and energy efficiency goals.”

Siemens (www.siemens.com) will deploy technology to upgrade HVAC systems, integrate movement and lighting sensors, and install building management systems to centralise energy management. Implementing these measures are expected to result in reductions in carbon emissions and improvements in operational efficiency. Technology will come from the Siemens Xcelerator (xcelerator.siemens.com) portfolio. The open digital business platform can help users accelerate their digital transformation easier, faster and at scale.